Lantbrukare

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

Agricultural workers are responsible for growing crops and raising animals, often within mixed farming operations combining crop production and animal husbandry. Tasks vary by season and can include sowing, harvesting, feeding, milking, machine operation, building maintenance, and handling various farm machinery. The work is physically demanding and mostly outdoors, often in changing weather conditions. Many farmers run their own farms, but employment also exists within larger agricultural companies and municipal operations. The work environment is characterized by independence, but also by high responsibility and an often weather- and market-dependent work life.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for agricultural workers have shown some variation but with a clear increase in the last year. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 26 700 SEK in 2023. However, by 2024, the salary has risen to 27 600 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 3.4% from the previous year. This positive trend can largely be explained by increased focus on food supply and sustainability, as well as a rise in available job positions within the profession. Despite this, salary levels remain relatively stable, and changes over time have been small, reflecting a stable but competitive industry where many companies are small and dependent on seasonal and weather conditions.

Agricultural worker salary – comprehensive 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 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 166 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 28,500 SEK, women 25,300 SEK (women earn 89% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Varying data – salary influenced by farm size and production type

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural worker, a high school education in natural resource use is usually required, but many pursue post-secondary education to strengthen their skills. Practical experience is crucial, and many combine education with work on farms. Specializations in areas such as animal husbandry, crop cultivation, or machinery are common, and various certifications may be required depending on the focus and employer.

• High school education: Natural resource program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: YH training in agriculture or agronomy programs, 2–5 years
• Certifications: Machinery operator license, plant protection, and animal husbandry certificates
• Practical training: Mandatory internships during education and summer jobs on farms
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility, interest in nature and technology

Common benefits and compensations

Farmers often enjoy benefits such as free housing, in-kind benefits like food or firewood, and flexible working hours. Some employers also offer further training, wellness allowances, and insurance. Self-employed farmers can influence their own work situation and may benefit from government support or investment grants.

Competition and challenges

Competition for farmers is mainly affected by market prices, weather conditions, and access to farmland. The industry is vulnerable to economic fluctuations and depends on regulations and support from the state. Technological development requires continuous skills upgrading, and attracting younger generations remains a challenge. Despite many available jobs, the industry’s structure and profitability mean long-term establishment requires patience and entrepreneurial spirit.

Tips for those wanting to become farmers

To succeed as a farmer, it’s important to have strong work ethic and patience, as working days are often long and tasks vary with the seasons. Good problem-solving skills are essential when unexpected situations arise, such as machinery breakdowns or animal illnesses. Flexibility helps when weather or market prices change rapidly, and financial acumen is useful for budgeting and investments. Social skills and willingness to collaborate are crucial, especially if managing a business with others or employing staff. A genuine interest in nature and technology makes it easier to learn new methods and stay updated. Finally, independence and responsibility are key, as much of the work is done alone and requires making own decisions.

Key facts about agricultural workers

• Education level: Usually high school or post-secondary education in natural resource use
• Work environment: Outdoors, physically demanding, often independent
• Work form: Self-employed or employed within larger farms
• Number of available jobs: 360 in the profession (2024)
• Gender distribution: Men dominate, but the share of women is increasing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many farmers develop specialist skills in areas such as organic farming, advanced machinery, or animal husbandry. It’s common to move into roles like farm manager, farm administrator, or to start a business. Some pursue further education in farm economics or agronomy. According to the Employment Service, no clear forecast exists for the agricultural worker profession due to limited statistical data, but the job market for crop producers and animal breeders (mixed farming) shows 360 available jobs in Sweden. Future demand will be influenced by technological shifts, generational change, and climate change. The profession remains important for society, but competition and profitability vary by region and production type.

Frequently asked questions about agricultural workers

• What does an agricultural worker earn?
  - The average salary for an agricultural worker is 27 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, gender, and education level.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Men earn on average 28,500 SEK, women earn 25,300 SEK, which corresponds to 89% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an agricultural worker?
  - The most common is a high school education in natural resource use, but post-secondary education and certifications are also advantageous.
• What does the job market look like for agricultural workers?
  - There are 360 available jobs in the profession, but competition and profitability vary depending on region and specialization.
• What tasks does an agricultural worker have?
  - Tasks include crop cultivation, animal husbandry, machine operation, maintenance, and administration.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, many progress to specialization, management, or start their own business.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Independence, responsibility, problem-solving skills, and an interest in nature and technology are key qualities.