Nursery school manager, fewer than 5 employees

What does a nursery manager do – smaller operation? Tasks and work environment

A nursery manager responsible for fewer than five employees leads and organizes the daily operations of a smaller nursery. Tasks vary between plant production, staff planning, purchasing, sales, and customer contact. The role often involves working closely with both staff and customers, as well as participating in practical work such as planting, pruning, and plant maintenance. The work environment is generally outdoor-based, with physical tasks and seasonal variations affecting workload. Flexibility and the ability to handle both administrative and practical tasks are crucial in this role.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a nursery manager in a smaller operation has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 26,500 SEK per month, rising to 27 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 29 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of just over 10% during the period, with the largest rise between 2023 and 2024. The salary trend reflects increased demand for qualified leadership in the horticultural industry, as well as general salary adjustments in line with inflation and market conditions. The industry is also affected by seasonal variations and regional demand, which may explain some differences in salary trends compared to other managerial roles within the green sector.

Nursery manager – salary and conditions: a complete overview

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 30,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 176 SEK/hour
• Women: 28,000 SEK/month
• Men: 30,300 SEK/month
• Women's salary as percentage of men's: 92%

Education and qualifications

To work as a nursery manager in a smaller operation, relevant education combined with practical experience in horticulture is often required. Many have a high school diploma in horticulture or agriculture, supplemented with additional courses, professional certificates, or leadership training. Leadership experience and advanced knowledge of plant cultivation, sales, and customer service are particularly meritorious.

• High school education: Natural Resources program with specialization in horticulture (3 years)
• Vocational college: Horticulturist or leadership courses (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in plant protection, environment, and work environment
• Practical experience: Experience from a nursery or similar business
• Prerequisites: Interest in plants, leadership, and customer contact

Common benefits and compensation

Nursery managers in smaller operations can expect benefits such as wellness allowances, employee discounts on plants and garden products, and sometimes flexible hours during the low season. Company pension schemes and insurance are often offered according to collective agreements, but conditions may vary depending on employer and season.

Competition and challenges

The job market for nursery managers with fewer than five employees is limited, as many nurseries are small and often family-owned. Demand for leaders with both practical and commercial skills is stable, but competition can be tough for the most attractive positions. Seasonal variations mean workload can be uneven, and the managerial role often requires great flexibility and the ability to handle rapid changes. Challenges such as staff shortages during peak season and increasing demands for sustainability and environmental certification place high demands on adaptability and leadership.

Tips for aspiring nursery managers – smaller operation

To succeed as a nursery manager in a smaller operation, it’s good to combine a genuine interest in plants with strong organizational skills. Being proactive makes it easier to find solutions when resources are limited, and good communication skills facilitate cooperation with both staff and customers. A strong sense of responsibility is important, as the role requires making independent decisions regarding everything from purchasing to scheduling. Flexibility and stress tolerance are also advantageous, especially during intense seasons when workload can increase rapidly. Continual education in plant knowledge and leadership provides an advantage, and the ability to work practically and independently is highly valued by employers.

Key facts about nursery managers – smaller operation

• Average salary: 29 300 SEK/month
• Lowest/highest salary: 28,000–30,300 SEK/month
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salary
• Education level: High school or vocational college education
• Typical work environment: Outdoors, practical and administrative work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a nursery manager in a smaller operation, there are opportunities to move to larger facilities or specialized roles within plant production, purchasing, or sales. Further education in leadership or business development can open doors to regional managerial roles or consultancy assignments within the horticultural sector. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, there is no specific assessment of future job opportunities for this profession, due to limited data. The profession of gardener had 360 available jobs at the latest count, indicating ongoing demand for skills in the field, especially with increased environmental awareness and interest in local plant production.

Frequently asked questions about nursery managers – smaller operation

• What does a nursery manager earn, fewer than 5 employees?
  - The average salary is 29 300 SEK/month, with a variation between 28,000 and 30,300 SEK/month depending on experience and gender.
• What education is required to become a nursery manager?
  - High school education in natural resources or horticulture is most common, often combined with vocational college courses and practical experience.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - The work environment is usually outdoor, with varying tasks including practical work, administration, and customer contact.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Wellness allowances, employee discounts, and sometimes flexible hours during the low season are common.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No specific forecast exists, but the profession has 360 available jobs, indicating some demand.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Responsibility, flexibility, communication skills, and practical ability are highly valued.