Machine consultant, in agriculture

What does a machinery consultant within agriculture do? – Tasks and work environment

A machinery consultant within agriculture works as an advisor and specialist focusing on farm machinery and technical equipment. Tasks include supporting farmers in selecting, purchasing, and maintaining machinery, analyzing machinery fleets, optimizing workflows, and contributing to increased efficiency and sustainability on farms. The role also involves staying updated on technological innovations and environmental requirements, sometimes by conducting field visits or demonstrations. The work environment is varied and can shift between offices, workshops, outdoor environments, and client visits, requiring flexibility and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for machinery consultants within agriculture has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 kr per month. During 2023, it rose to 45 200, which corresponds to an increase of about 12%. For 2024, the salary has continued to rise to 45 700, an increase of approximately 1% from the previous year. The significant jump between 2022 and 2023 can be linked to increased demand for technical advice as agriculture digitalizes and becomes more machinery-intensive. The salary growth has then plateaued, possibly because the specialist skills in the profession are already highly valued in the job market. The salary development also reflects the industry's need to attract and retain qualified advisors.

Machinery consultant within agriculture salary – full overview

• Average salary: 45 700 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 kr/month
• Highest salary: 49,300 kr/month
• Hourly wage: 275 kr/hour
• Women: 41 300 kr/month (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 kr/month
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a machinery consultant within agriculture, a technical or agronomic degree at university or college level is usually required, often with specialization in agricultural technology, mechanical engineering, or related fields. Practical experience from farming or mechanical engineering is highly valuable and often a prerequisite. Additional certifications in machinery safety and environmental technology, as well as consulting experience, are advantageous.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in agriculture or mechanical engineering (3–5 years)
• Internship: Fieldwork or trainee position at a farm or machinery company
• Certifications: Courses in machinery safety and environmental technology
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of technology and agriculture
• Tip: Combine technical education with practical experience to strengthen your professional profile

Common benefits and compensations

Machinery consultants within agriculture are often offered company cars, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, mobile phones, and participation in industry fairs and training sessions. In some cases, bonus programs and pension contributions beyond collective agreement terms are also available.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a machinery consultant within agriculture is moderate but can vary depending on geographic area and economic conditions. Since the profession requires both technical and agronomic competence, experience and education in these areas are advantageous. Challenges include staying updated on rapid technological changes and new environmental regulations, as well as translating complex technical solutions into practical advice for farmers. The shortage of younger specialists is also notable, which can present good opportunities for newcomers. Building a strong network and credibility among clients is crucial for long-term success.

Tips for aspiring machinery consultants within agriculture

To succeed as a machinery consultant within agriculture, being both analytical and communicative is important, as the profession requires quickly identifying technical problems and explaining solutions pedagogically. A genuine interest in farming and machinery technology facilitates learning new techniques and builds trust with clients. Flexibility is a key trait, as the workday often involves travel and varied environments. Early practical experience through summer jobs or internships in agriculture or machinery is recommended. Continual training and participation in industry events provide competitive advantages and insight into upcoming trends. Good collaboration skills are also essential, as much of the work involves cooperation with farmers, colleagues, and suppliers. Finally, independence and initiative are important, as many tasks require acting on one's own responsibility.

Key facts about machinery consultants within agriculture

• Education level: Bachelor's degree in agriculture/mechanical engineering
• Work environment: Field-based with office elements
• Profession group: Specialists and advisors within agriculture
• Number of job openings: 360 within the profession
• Demand: No official forecast, but a stable job market

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a machinery consultant within agriculture can advance to more senior roles such as technical specialist, product manager, or regional manager. There are also opportunities to work as trainers, consultants, or project leaders in larger agricultural organizations or machinery companies. According to the Employment Service, there is no precise forecast for the profession due to limited data, but the broad profession group has about 360 job openings and is generally considered in demand. Future prospects are positively influenced by the increasing technological content in agriculture and the need for qualified advice on machinery and environmental issues.

Frequently asked questions about machinery consultants within agriculture

• What does a machinery consultant within agriculture earn?
  - The average salary is 45 700 kr/month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 85% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a machinery consultant within agriculture?
  - A degree in agriculture, mechanical engineering, or related fields is recommended.
• What is the job market like for machinery consultants?
  - There are approximately 360 job openings, and demand is considered stable.
• Where do machinery consultants within agriculture work?
  - They often work at consulting firms, machinery suppliers, agricultural organizations, or as independent consultants.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 kr per month and the lowest is 34,400 kr per month.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, good communication, and flexibility are central qualities.