Agricultural teacher

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

Agricultural teachers teach subjects related to agriculture, animal husbandry, crop production, and machinery technology at high schools, adult education, and folk high schools. Their tasks include planning and conducting lessons, supervising students in practical activities, and assessing knowledge and skills. Teaching often takes place both in classrooms and on the school’s farm or other practical environments, meaning the work environment can vary between traditional classrooms and outdoor work. Agricultural teachers also play an important role in establishing contacts with the industry and ensuring that the education meets the demands of the labor market.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, agricultural teachers have seen steady salary growth. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 41 600 SEK, corresponding to a salary increase of about 6.4% over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified vocational teachers, especially in agriculture where the industry is constantly changing and the need for skills is high. Salaries have also been influenced by inflation and collective bargaining within the education sector, contributing to annual raises.

Agricultural teacher salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 250 SEK/hour
• Men: 41 800 SEK/month
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (99% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on variations are unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an agricultural teacher, both pedagogical education and experience or training in various areas of agriculture are required. Usually, applicants need a teaching degree focused on vocational subjects and practical experience in the agricultural sector. It is also common to supplement with various certifications and courses to meet school requirements and industry developments.

• Teaching degree in vocational subjects: 3–4.5 years
• Practical experience: Often at least 1–2 years in agriculture
• Additional courses/certificates: e.g., machinery safety, animal husbandry
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, sometimes specific eligibility in natural resource use
• Tip for choosing: Combine pedagogical studies with practical work on farms or agricultural companies

Common benefits and compensations

Agricultural teachers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and professional development through training and courses. Other common compensations include work clothes, opportunities for flexible working hours, and sometimes access to the school’s own agricultural resources for private use or further training.

Competition and challenges

The profession of agricultural teacher is characterized by a paradoxical labor market where there is a high demand for competent teachers, yet recruitment difficulties are common. Many schools struggle to find qualified teachers with both pedagogical and practical experience, leading to a high number of vacant positions. The workload can be intense during periods of practical teaching and administrative tasks. At the same time, there is some mobility within the profession, with some choosing to return to industry or switch to other educational roles. Despite these challenges, the job market is generally stable, and employment opportunities are considered very good nationwide.

Tips for those who want to become an agricultural teacher

To succeed as an agricultural teacher, it’s beneficial to combine a genuine interest in agriculture with pedagogical skills and a desire to inspire others. Being communicative and clear facilitates both in the classroom and during practical activities, while patience helps in supervising and assessing students with diverse backgrounds. A flexible approach makes it easier to adapt to changes within education and industry, and a structured work style aids in planning lessons. For those curious and willing to continuously develop their knowledge, there are excellent opportunities to become a valued and successful agricultural teacher.

Key facts about Agricultural Teachers

• Education level: Teaching degree with vocational focus (3–4.5 years)
• Work environment: Varied between classroom, farm, and outdoor environments
• Demand: Very high, over 400 available positions nationwide
• Gender distribution: Small salary differences between men and women
• Special skills: Practical experience in agriculture highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an agricultural teacher, opportunities exist to advance to leadership roles such as program manager, principal, or development officer for agricultural education. Other career options include working in adult education, consultancy for agricultural companies, or further development within pedagogy and supervision. The employment agency’s forecasts show that the demand for vocational teachers, including in agriculture, is expected to remain unchanged over five years, but job opportunities are very good and recruitment challenges persist. Those combining pedagogical skills with current industry knowledge have excellent prospects for a stable and rewarding career.

Frequently asked questions about agricultural teachers

• What does an agricultural teacher earn?
  - The average salary for an agricultural teacher is 41 600 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for agricultural teachers?
  - Salaries have increased from 39,100 SEK (2022) to 41 600 SEK (2024), with a positive trend in recent years.
• What education is required to become an agricultural teacher?
  - A teaching degree with a focus on vocational subjects and experience within agriculture, often supplemented with courses and certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 41 800 SEK and women 41 300 SEK, which means women earn approximately 99% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for agricultural teachers?
  - Opportunities for employment are very high, with over 400 available positions nationwide.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Pedagogical ability, communication skills, patience, and practical experience within agriculture.
• How high and low can the salaries within the profession be?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK and the lowest is 34,400 SEK per month, depending on experience, education, and sector.