Agricultural Accountant

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

An agricultural bookkeeper manages and analyzes the financial reporting for farming enterprises. Main tasks include ongoing bookkeeping, preparing financial statements, tax returns, VAT reporting, and providing advice tailored to the agricultural sector's specific requirements. Often, advisory work involves financial planning, investments, and tax issues. The work environment is typically office-based, but there are also tasks performed on farms and businesses where customer contact and understanding of agricultural life are essential. Agricultural bookkeepers work both independently and in teams, often collaborating with other accountants, advisors, and farmers.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, agricultural bookkeepers have experienced steady salary increases. In 2022, the average salary was 41,200 SEK per month, rising to 43 000 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows an average salary of 44 300 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.5% over the period. Salaries have been influenced by increased demand for qualified accounting professionals within agriculture, as well as general salary trends in the economics field. Education level and specialization in agricultural economics also contribute to higher salary levels, even as competition for skilled personnel remains in the industry.

Agricultural bookkeeper salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK/month (men), 35,200 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 48,500 SEK/month (men), 45,000 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 266 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (men: 45 400 SEK, women: 44 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is currently unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural bookkeeper, a post-secondary education in economics is generally required, preferably with a focus on agricultural economics or accounting. Many employers seek experience in bookkeeping within the agricultural sector and good knowledge of relevant financial systems. Practical experience and understanding of agricultural operations are often advantageous, and supplementary courses in taxation and agricultural economics can be highly beneficial.

• Formal education: Post-secondary degree in economics, 2–3 years
• Specialized courses: Accounting for agriculture, VAT, and tax issues
• Internships: Workplace-based learning or traineeships in economics/agriculture
• Certifications: Courses in financial systems and financial statement preparation
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of bookkeeping and economics required

Common benefits and compensation

Agricultural bookkeepers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Other common perks include professional development opportunities, subsidized lunches, and sometimes remote work options. Some employers also provide extra vacation days and insurance coverage.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an agricultural bookkeeper is considered balanced, with a stable number of job openings within the profession. Challenges mainly involve staying updated on constantly changing financial and tax regulations, as well as understanding the specific economic conditions relevant to the agricultural sector. Digitalization and new financial systems mean technical skills are increasingly important. The ability to combine traditional accounting knowledge with advisory skills is a key success factor. Many employers seek candidates with experience in both finance and agriculture, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants.

Tips for aspiring agricultural bookkeepers

To succeed as an agricultural bookkeeper, it is beneficial to combine accuracy and analytical skills with an interest in farming conditions. A strong sense of structure facilitates managing complex financial flows, while communication skills help convey advice to farmers. Keeping up-to-date with new regulations and digital tools is crucial, as is the ability to work independently and in teams. Openness to change and new technology aids in meeting industry developments. Building a network within both finance and agriculture can provide valuable insights and future opportunities. Ultimately, a genuine interest in rural entrepreneurship is a motivating force in the profession.

Key facts about Agricultural Bookkeeper

• Education level: Post-secondary degree in economics (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with client visits to farms
• Typical employment: Privately employed professional
• Demand: 758 job openings within the accounting professionals group
• Gender salary difference: Women earn 97% of men's salary

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the role, agricultural bookkeepers can advance to positions such as finance manager, accounting consultant, or advisor in agricultural economics. Some choose to specialize further in tax issues, business development, or digital accounting. The Employment Service predicts that job opportunities within the accounting professionals group are moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation and demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Digitalization and increased efficiency in the agricultural sector may lead to new tasks and further training requirements. Those combining financial expertise with a deep understanding of farming conditions have good prospects for a stable and rewarding career.

Frequently asked questions about Agricultural Bookkeepers

• What does an agricultural bookkeeper earn?
  - The average salary for an agricultural bookkeeper is 44 300 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences within the agricultural bookkeeping profession?
  - Women earn 97% of what men do, which corresponds to 44 000 SEK for women and 45 400 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become an agricultural bookkeeper?
  - Post-secondary education in economics, preferably with a focus on agricultural economics or accounting, is recommended.
• What are the future prospects for agricultural bookkeepers?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the job responsibilities of an agricultural bookkeeper?
  - Responsibilities include bookkeeping, financial statements, tax returns, VAT reporting, and advising agricultural businesses.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Current data on regional differences is unavailable.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an agricultural bookkeeper?
  - The highest salary is 48,500 SEK for men and 45,000 SEK for women; the lowest is 33,200 SEK for men and 35,200 SEK for women.