Agricultural foreman, mixed operation

What does an agricultural supervisor in mixed farming do? – Tasks and work environment

An agricultural supervisor in mixed farming is responsible for leading and coordinating daily work on farms that combine crop production and animal husbandry. Tasks include planning work efforts, supervising machinery and equipment, assigning tasks, and monitoring production and care of both crops and animals. The role often involves close collaboration with other farm workers, machine operators, and sometimes external suppliers. The work environment is largely outdoors and can be physically demanding and varied, with seasonal peaks and periods of intensive responsibility.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for agricultural supervisors in mixed farming have shown a relatively stable trend. In 2022, the average salary was 26,900 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 26 700 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, the salary increased to 27 600 SEK in 2024, representing a growth of approximately 3.4% from 2023 to 2024. This increase can partly be explained by increased demand for expertise in sustainable farming, and a more competitive job market for experienced supervisors. However, salary development has been somewhat uneven, which is common in industries affected by seasonal variations and operational changes.

Comprehensive overview of salaries for agricultural supervisors in mixed farming

• 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)
• Highest salary (male): 47,200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 28,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 166 SEK/hour
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 89% of men's salaries (25,300 SEK vs 28,500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural supervisor in mixed farming, a high school education in natural resource management is usually required, often supplemented with practical experience in various areas of farming. Post-secondary education in agriculture, crop production, or animal husbandry can be advantageous, especially for leadership roles. Practical experience, familiarity with machinery, and knowledge of work management are central qualifications for success in the role.

• High school education: Natural Resource Program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: Agricultural program or similar, 2–3 years
• Certifications: Machinery operator license, animal handling certificates
• Practical training: Common as part of education or alongside studies
• Prerequisites: Experience in farming and work management

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for agricultural supervisors in mixed farming include work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to company housing or staff discounts on farm products. In some cases, bonuses linked to production or seasonal allowances for work during busy periods may also be offered.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as agricultural supervisors in mixed farming can vary by region and season. Since the tasks require broad skills and leadership qualities, the most experienced and flexible candidates often secure the most attractive roles. The industry is affected by weather, economy, and changing production conditions, which can lead to uneven workloads. Additionally, increasing demands for digitalization and sustainability mean that those who want to stay at the forefront need to develop skills in new technologies and methods. There are also challenges related to gender pay gaps, where women generally earn less than men for similar roles.

Tips for those aspiring to become an agricultural supervisor in mixed farming

To succeed as an agricultural supervisor in mixed farming, it is important to have natural leadership abilities, as the role involves allocating tasks and motivating others. Flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions are crucial, especially during peak seasons. Practical problem-solving skills and technical interest facilitate machinery maintenance and testing new methods. Good communication skills are also important for collaboration with colleagues and suppliers. Engagement and responsibility contribute to success, and a continuous desire to learn helps meet industry developments effectively.

Key facts about agricultural supervisors in mixed farming

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Outdoors, varied and physically demanding
• Typical employment: Full-time, seasonal variations may occur
• Demand: About 360 available jobs within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 89% of men's salaries in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After several years of experience, opportunities exist to advance to farm manager, advisor within agricultural enterprises, or specialize in areas such as machinery technology, crop production, or animal welfare. Some choose to further their education in agricultural economics or agronomy to take on more strategic roles. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for this job title due to limited data, but there are indications of continued demand within the profession, especially considering the 360 available jobs. The future outlook is influenced by technological development, sustainability requirements, and structural changes within the agricultural sector.

Frequently asked questions about agricultural supervisors in mixed farming

• What does an agricultural supervisor in mixed farming earn?
  - The average salary is 27 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 25,300 SEK, which corresponds to 89% of men's salary at 28,500 SEK.
• What education is required to become an agricultural supervisor in mixed farming?
  - High school education in natural resource management is most common, often supplemented with practical experience and possibly post-secondary courses or training.
• Are there many job openings in this profession?
  - Yes, there are approximately 360 available jobs according to the latest data.
• What are the key qualities for this profession?
  - Leadership, flexibility, technical interest, and responsibility are central qualities.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service does not make an exact forecast, but demand is expected to remain stable within the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for this profession?
  - The highest salary is 50,400 SEK (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education ≥3 years). The lowest salary is 25,300 SEK (female, various sectors).