Agricultural treasurer

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

An agricultural accountant mainly works with financial administration within the agricultural sector. Typical tasks include handling invoices, bookkeeping, payroll administration, income and expense checks, and financial reporting to management or external parties. The role requires accuracy, a good understanding of financial flows, and often the ability to handle multiple tasks under time pressure. The work environment is usually office-based, but depending on the size and focus of the business, some tasks may also be performed near production sites, such as on farms or within agricultural cooperatives.

Salary development over time

The salary of an agricultural accountant has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023 and then to 36 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.4% over the period, reflecting a continued demand for qualified financial administration despite the overall surplus of labor in the market. Salary development can largely be explained by employers' need for experienced financial personnel and the increasing complexity of financial management in agricultural businesses. Although demand is expected to decline slightly in the future, the profession continues to be rewarded with small but steady salary increases, especially for those with specialized knowledge or experience in the industry.

Agricultural accountant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 38,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 36 500 SEK, men 35 400 SEK – women earn 103% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Specific differences are lacking, but variations may occur depending on local labor market conditions

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural accountant, a high school diploma with a focus on economics or administration is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in similar tasks, and supplementary courses in accounting and bookkeeping are often advantageous. Some workplaces may also require post-secondary studies or certifications in financial administration, especially if the role involves more advanced financial responsibilities.

• High school diploma: Economics or administration, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Accounting, payroll administration
• Certifications: For example, diplomas in payroll management or bookkeeping
• Internship: Meritorious in finance or agricultural administration
• IT skills: Experience with financial systems and Excel is often required

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for agricultural accountants include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and remote work options. Additional compensations may include overtime pay and skills development allowances, especially at larger workplaces.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for agricultural accountants is characterized by a nationwide surplus of qualified applicants, which means competition for positions is high. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, demand for finance assistants and similar roles is expected to decrease over the next five years. The challenge for those wishing to work in the profession is to distinguish themselves through relevant experience and specialized knowledge, such as digital finance or agricultural regulations. Changes in the agricultural sector, such as increased digitization and sustainability reporting requirements, also affect the profession and demand greater flexibility and continuous learning.

Tips for those who want to become an agricultural accountant

To succeed as an agricultural accountant, it is good to combine accuracy with a strong sense of service, as the role often involves close contact with colleagues and external parties. Being organized facilitates handling often complex financial flows and many tasks simultaneously. It is also important to have an interest in digital tools and financial systems, as tasks are increasingly digitized. The ability to work independently and take initiative is appreciated by employers, especially in smaller organizations. Regularly updating oneself on laws and regulations in finance and agriculture can provide a competitive edge. Lastly, good teamwork and communication skills are important, as the role often involves collaboration across different functions within the organization.

Key facts about an agricultural accountant

• Education level: High school diploma with a focus on economics or administration
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes near production sites
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of labor
• Number of job openings (profession): 758 nationwide
• Special skills: Digital financial systems and agricultural regulations are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an agricultural accountant, opportunities open up for more qualified roles within financial administration, such as accounting economist or finance assistant with expanded responsibilities. Some choose to further their education in economics and move towards controllers or finance managers, especially if working for a larger agricultural enterprise or cooperative. However, the Employment Service's forecast indicates that demand for finance assistants is expected to decrease nationally over the next five years, with a surplus of labor. To develop further, it is recommended to pursue additional training and actively follow developments in digital financial systems and agricultural regulations to increase employability.

Common questions about agricultural accountants

• What is the average salary of an agricultural accountant?
  - The average salary is 36 400 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between women and men in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 36 500 SEK and men 35 400 SEK, which means women earn 103% of men's salaries.
• What are the future prospects for agricultural accountants?
  - According to the Employment Service, demand is low and expected to decrease, with a surplus of labor nationwide.
• What education is needed to become an agricultural accountant?
  - Usually, a high school diploma with an economics focus and courses in accounting and payroll administration are required.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for agricultural accountants?
  - The highest salary is 38,000 SEK, and the lowest is 29,400 SEK per month.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 758 available jobs nationwide in finance assistance.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, digital competence, and good teamwork skills are highly valued.