Lantarbetare

What does an agricultural worker do? – Tasks and work environment

Agricultural workers play a central role in agriculture, working with both crop cultivation and animal husbandry on farms with mixed operations. Tasks vary depending on the season and the farm's focus, but often include sowing, harvesting, crop care, feeding animals, and maintenance of machinery and buildings. The work environment is primarily outdoors and characterized by physical labor under varying weather conditions. Flexibility and the ability to handle both independent tasks and teamwork with other employees on the farm are often required.

Salary development over time

The salary level for agricultural workers has shown a slightly positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK, followed by a marginal decrease to 26 700 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary increased to 27 600 SEK, representing a growth of approximately 3.4% compared to the previous year. This development can be linked to inflationary pressures and increased demand for labor in certain parts of the agricultural sector. Despite this, the wage growth for agricultural workers remains in line with other natural resource professions, where wages tend to increase slowly and are affected by seasonal variations and labor market needs.

Agricultural worker salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 27 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,300 SEK/month (female, various sectors, unspecified education)
• Highest salary: 50,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Highest salary (man): 47,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do (men: 28,500 SEK, women: 25,300 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural worker, usually no extensive formal education is required, but a high school diploma in natural resource management or equivalent practical experience is often advantageous. Many employers value practical skills, machine licenses, and knowledge of animal husbandry. It is common for agricultural workers to learn a lot on the job and through internships.

• High school education: Natural resource management program (3 years)
• Certifications: Tractor license, machinery operator certificate
• Internships: Experience through on-the-job training (OJT) during high school or via trainee positions
• Prerequisites: Basic understanding of animals and plants
• Courses: Safe handling of animals, crop cultivation, machinery maintenance

Common benefits and compensations

As an agricultural worker, benefits often include work clothing, accommodation options on or near the workplace, and discounts on agricultural products. In some cases, wellness allowances, insurance, and access to work vehicles are also offered. Compensation for unsociable hours may also occur, especially during busy seasons.

Competition and challenges

The profession of agricultural worker is characterized by relatively low competition in the job market, but many challenges exist. Seasonal variations affect both workload and employment security, and the physical work can be strenuous over time. The work environment demands good health and the ability to handle heavy lifting and long working hours during certain periods. Additionally, technological development and increased efficiency requirements may lead to adjustments for those wanting to continue in the profession. Despite this, job openings are available, indicating steady demand for skilled agricultural workers.

Tips for those who want to become an agricultural worker

To succeed as an agricultural worker, it is good to have a genuine interest in animals and nature, as the work often involves close contact with both. Practical skills are a great asset, especially when handling machinery and performing physical tasks on the farm. Flexibility is important, as tasks vary greatly depending on the season and weather, and the ability to quickly adapt to new situations is often required. Good teamwork skills facilitate cooperation, as many tasks are performed in teams. Being responsible and able to work independently is also crucial, especially regarding animal welfare and machinery operation. Attention to detail and safety awareness are valuable, as the work environment can involve risks. Finally, being resourceful and willing to learn new things is an advantage, as technological developments continually introduce new work aspects into the profession.

Key facts about agricultural workers

• Education level: High school education in natural resource management or equivalent experience
• Work environment: Outdoor work with physical and varied tasks
• Typical employment form: Seasonal or permanent employment
• Demand: 360 available jobs within the profession in spring 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn 89% of what men do in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as an agricultural worker, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as foreman or farm manager. Some choose to further educate themselves in specialized areas such as organic farming, machinery technology, or animal care. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for the crop growers and animal breeders (mixed operations) profession indicate a steady number of available jobs, 360 in spring 2024, but no precise future assessment can be made due to limited statistical data. However, technological development and sustainability focus may create new opportunities for those who wish to develop or specialize within the industry.

Common questions about agricultural workers

• What does an agricultural worker earn?
  - The average salary for an agricultural worker is 27 600 SEK per month.
• Are there large salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 89% of what men do. Men have an average salary of 28,500 SEK, women 25,300 SEK.
• What is the job market like for agricultural workers?
  - There were 360 available positions in spring 2024, indicating strong demand.
• What education is required to become an agricultural worker?
  - High school education in natural resource management is most common, but practical experience is often more important than formal education.
• What is the highest salary for an agricultural worker?
  - The highest salary is 50,400 SEK and belongs to a woman with at least 3 years of post-secondary education in the municipal sector.
• What is the lowest salary for an agricultural worker?
  - The lowest salary is 25,300 SEK and belongs to a woman with unspecified education level.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Practical skills, responsibility, flexibility, and interest in nature and animals are important qualities.