Barn attendant, mixed operation

What does a farmhand in mixed operation do? – Tasks and work environment

Farmhands in mixed operation work with practical daily chores on farms where both animal husbandry and crop cultivation are combined. Tasks include everything from feeding, cleaning animal stalls, and monitoring animal health to machine maintenance, repairs, and building upkeep. The role also involves outdoor work such as sowing, harvesting, and fertilizing. The work environment is characterized by physical effort and changing weather conditions, requiring good physical fitness and a strong sense of responsibility towards both animals and crops. Work is often done in small teams or alone, and workdays can be long, especially during busy periods like harvest or calving.

Salary development over time

Farmhands in mixed operation have experienced a relatively stable salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 26 700 SEK in 2023. For 2024, the average salary increased to 27 600 SEK, representing an increase of about 3.4% from the previous year. This trend reflects a certain recovery and can be partly explained by increased demand for labor in the agricultural sector and the impact of inflation on salary negotiations. Despite some variation, salary growth remains relatively steady, indicating a stable but somewhat low salary level compared to other natural resource professions. Gender differences persist and also influence the average salary development.

Farmhand in mixed operation salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month (women), 28,500 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month (women, municipal sector), 47,200 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 166 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between different regions, but exact figures are not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a farmhand in mixed operation, a high school education in natural resources is usually required, often with specialization in agriculture or animal husbandry. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed internships or trainee programs on farms. There are also opportunities to supplement with short courses or certifications in animal handling and machinery operation to strengthen skills.

• High school education: Natural Resources Program, specialization in agriculture (3 years)
• Internships: Work-based learning or internships during training
• Courses/certifications: Examples include machinery operator certificates, animal handling certificates
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals and agriculture, good physical health
• Self-study/online options: Some components can be completed via digital training

Common benefits and compensations

The profession often offers benefits such as work clothing, free meals or subsidized lunches at the workplace. Some employers also provide housing on the farm, especially in more remote areas. Other common compensations include per diems for work in other locations, wellness allowances, and sometimes additional pay for inconvenient working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a farmhand in mixed operation varies depending on region and season. In some areas, there is a shortage of qualified workers, while in others, there is an oversupply of applicants. Challenges include long working hours, physically demanding tasks, and requirements for flexibility, especially during illness or high workload among the animals. The job also demands constant readiness for unexpected situations, such as machinery breakdowns or animal diseases. Technological developments in agriculture increase demands for digital skills and machinery familiarity, which can be a barrier for some. At the same time, the profession offers great variety and the opportunity to work closely with animals and nature.

Tips for those who want to become a farmhand in mixed operation

To succeed as a farmhand in mixed operation, it is good to have a genuine interest in animals and nature, which provides motivation during long and sometimes heavy workdays. Responsibility is crucial, as animal welfare is always the top priority, and work is often done independently. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are important, as tasks can vary greatly with seasons and weather. Good teamwork skills are appreciated when working in groups, especially during busy periods like harvest or calving. Practical experience is highly valued, so seeking internships or summer jobs to build knowledge and contacts in the industry is wise. Staying updated on new techniques and methods in agriculture can also provide advantages in the job market. Finally, endurance and thoroughness are key qualities, as the work requires both physical effort and attention to detail.

Key facts about farmhands in mixed operation

• Education level: High school diploma in natural resources is most common
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often with evening and weekend shifts
• Work environment: Physically demanding, both outdoors and indoors
• Demand: 360 available jobs in 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn 89% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a farmhand in mixed operation, many advance to more specialized roles, such as supervisor on larger farms, machinery operators, or animal caretakers with responsibility for specific species. There are also opportunities for further education in agricultural technology or entrepreneurship and eventually starting one's own business. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment for this profession due to limited data, but there are signs of continued demand for labor, especially with generational change and increasing requirements for sustainable animal husbandry. In 2024, there were 360 available jobs in the profession, indicating a relatively open job market for new applicants. However, the future of the profession will be influenced by factors such as technological development, climate change, and changing consumer demands.

Frequently asked questions about farmhands in mixed operation

• What does a farmhand in mixed operation earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a farmhand?
  - A high school education in natural resources, preferably with practical training, is most common.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is physically demanding and takes place both outdoors and indoors, often in varying weather conditions.
• What benefits are common?
  - Work clothing, subsidized lunches, and sometimes housing on the farm are often offered.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are 360 available jobs within the profession, but the outlook varies regionally.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 50,400 SEK (women, municipal sector), and the lowest is 25,300 SEK (women, various sectors).