Dairy farmer

What does a dairy farmer do? – Tasks and working environment

A dairy farmer is responsible for managing and operating milk production on a farm. Tasks range from daily animal care, feeding cows, milking, monitoring animal health, to handling machinery and technical equipment. In addition to animal management, maintenance of barns and machines, documentation of production, and sometimes sales of dairy products are included. The working environment often involves early mornings, physically demanding tasks, and outdoor work regardless of weather. Hygiene and safety are central, as both animal welfare and product quality are prioritized.

Salary development over time

Salaries for dairy farmers have shown a relatively stable trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,200 SEK per month, while both 2023 and 2024 showed an unchanged average of 28 400 SEK per month. This represents an increase of approximately 4.4% from 2022 to 2023, but the salary level has plateaued since then. This development reflects a market where demand for labor remains, but margins in agriculture are limited and profitability is pressured. Education level and the degree of automation on farms can also influence salary development, as many in the profession run their own businesses with varying profitability.

Dairy farmer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 171 SEK/hour (calculated on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 27 800 SEK, men 29,700 SEK (women 94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and farm size, but the national average is 28 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a dairy farmer, a high school education in agriculture is usually required, often via the natural resources program with a focus on animal husbandry. Practical experience is highly valuable, as the profession is both physically and technically demanding. Additional courses or certifications in animal health, machinery use, and food safety can be advantageous, especially for those responsible for the entire operation.

• High school education: Natural resources program, 3 years
• Certifications: Courses in animal health, machinery safety, and food handling
• Internship: Extended practical training or internship on a farm is recommended
• Prerequisites: Interest in animals and technology, good physical condition
• Tips for choosing: Combine theoretical studies with practical experience for optimal competence

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for dairy farmers may include free housing on the farm, in-kind benefits such as milk and meat for the household, work clothes, and sometimes wellness allowances. For those who are self-employed, benefits vary depending on the farm's economy, while employees are often covered by collective agreements regulating vacation, pensions, and insurance.

Competition and challenges

Competition for job opportunities in milk production is relatively low, but the profession faces other challenges. Recruitment difficulties are common, partly because the work is physically demanding and often requires working at inconvenient hours. Many choose part-time work, creating a paradoxical situation where there are many potential workers but difficulty finding full-time staff. The profitability of the profession is also affected by market prices for milk and increased costs for feed and energy. Sustainability requirements and animal welfare legislation impose additional demands on knowledge and investments.

Tips for those who want to become a dairy farmer

To succeed as a dairy farmer, it is good to have a strong work ethic and be prepared for early mornings and long working days. A genuine interest in animals is crucial, along with patience and the ability to work independently when unexpected situations arise. Being technically curious and eager to learn new machinery and digital systems can be advantageous, as modern milk production is often automated. Social skills and teamwork are also important, especially if working in a team or managing staff. Finally, flexibility and problem-solving skills facilitate everyday life, as unexpected challenges are common in agriculture.

Key facts about dairy farmers

• Education level: High school (natural resources program)
• Work environment: Physically demanding, often outdoors and in barn settings
• Typical employment: Self-employed or employed on larger farms
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 360 available jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Animal health, machinery handling, food safety

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a dairy farmer, opportunities include advancing to farm manager, supervisor, or specializing in areas such as animal health, breeding, or machinery maintenance. Some choose further education and take on greater responsibilities, such as running their own farm or working in agricultural consulting. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities within the profession are expected to remain strong over the next five years, with continued demand and recruitment needs. However, the challenge remains that many work part-time, which can influence the dynamics of the labor market.

Frequently asked questions about dairy farmers

• What does a dairy farmer earn?
  - A dairy farmer has an average salary of 28 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, region, and employment type.
• What are the gender differences in wages for dairy farmers?
  - Women earn on average 27 800 SEK, which is 94% of men's salary of 29,700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a dairy farmer?
  - High school education in natural resources, preferably the natural resources program with a focus on animal husbandry, along with practical experience is recommended.
• What is the job market like for dairy farmers?
  - Opportunities for employment are large nationwide, with approximately 360 available positions within the profession.
• What duties are included for a dairy farmer?
  - Tasks include animal care, milking, feeding, machinery maintenance, and documentation of production.
• How has the salary of dairy farmers developed in recent years?
  - The average salary increased from 27,200 SEK in 2022 to 28 400 SEK in 2023 and has remained unchanged in 2024.
• What benefits are common for dairy farmers?
  - Common benefits include free housing, in-kind benefits, work clothes, and sometimes wellness allowances.