Plant cultivation consultant

What does a crop production advisor do? – tasks and work environment

A crop production advisor works to provide expert support to farmers and companies in crop cultivation. Tasks include advising on cultivation strategies, plant nutrition, plant protection, and sustainable production methods. The role often involves analyzing soil samples, planning crop rotations, and assisting with seed and fertilizer selection. Crop production advisors operate both in the field and at a desk, where reports and cultivation plans are prepared. Collaboration with authorities, research institutes, and agricultural companies is common, and the work is characterized by seasonal variations and a mix of independent assignments and teamwork.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for crop production advisors has developed steadily. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month, which increased to 45 200 SEK during 2023 – an increase of about 12% in one year. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary rose further to 45 700 SEK, reflecting a more modest increase of just over 1%. The strong increase between 2022 and 2023 can be linked to increased demand for advice on sustainability and climate adaptation, while the latest adjustment reflects a more normalized market. Salary ranges are also influenced by education level, experience, and employer type – private sector employees tend to be in the upper segment.

Crop production advisor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, high school education)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 275 SEK/hour (average, hourly worker)
• Women earn: 41 300 SEK (85% of men's salary, highest salary 46,900 SEK)
• Men earn: 48 700 SEK (highest salary 49,300 SEK, lowest salary 40,000 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a crop production advisor, a university degree in agronomy, agricultural science, or related fields is usually required. Practical experience in crop cultivation or farming is often highly meritorious, and some employers also require specific certifications in plant protection or advisory services. Continuing education and updates on new laws, techniques, and environmental requirements are a natural part of the profession.

• Agronomy or farm management degree: 3–5 years at university or college
• Certifications: Examples include integrated plant protection, environmentally sustainable cultivation
• Practical training: Field internships or trainee programs with advisory firms or agricultural organizations
• Prerequisites: Science or agriculture-focused high school education recommended
• Courses/continuing education: Digitalization, sustainability, plant nutrition, and EU regulations

Common benefits and compensations

Crop production advisors are often offered benefits such as company cars or mileage allowances, wellness contributions, skill development, and flexible working hours. In some cases, pension contributions beyond collective agreements are included, along with access to modern digital tools and further training within the profession.

Competition and challenges

The job market for crop production advisors is characterized by a limited number of positions and relatively high specialization, which can lead to competition for the most attractive roles. Challenges also include rapid changes in legislation, increased demands for sustainability and digitalization, and the need to constantly update skills. Seasonal variations are another aspect, as workload often increases significantly during certain periods of the year. The ability to handle complex advisory tasks and communicate effectively with different target groups is crucial for success in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become crop production advisors

To succeed as a crop production advisor, it is good to have strong analytical skills and a genuine interest in the development of agriculture. Being communicative facilitates conveying complex cultivation recommendations to various customer groups, while a problem-solving mindset helps with unforeseen challenges in the field. Accuracy is important when interpreting analyses and reports, and a high degree of independence is required to plan and prioritize workdays effectively. It is also valuable to invest time in networking and continuous skills development, as techniques and regulations change rapidly. Good pedagogical skills make it easier to motivate and inspire farmers to adopt new methods. Finally, an interest in technology and digital tools is a clear advantage in modern advisory work.

Key facts about Crop Production Advisors

• Education level: University degree (3–5 years in agronomy/agriculture)
• Work environment: Combined fieldwork and office work
• Work form: Consultant/employed in agricultural advisory or company
• Number of available jobs: 360
• Gender salary differences: Women earn 85% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a crop production advisor, opportunities include advancing to specialist roles within plant protection, environmental management, or strategic consulting. Some choose to become team leaders, project managers, or start their own consultancy. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for the profession of specialists and advisors in agriculture, it is difficult to give an exact assessment for crop production advisors due to limited data. However, there are 360 available jobs in the group, indicating some demand. Skills in digital tools and sustainability issues can further improve prospects. Future outlooks are influenced by developments in agriculture, environmental legislation, and technology.

Frequently asked questions about Crop Production Advisors

• What does a crop production advisor earn?
  - The average salary for a crop production advisor is 45 700 SEK/month.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn on average 48 700 SEK and women 41 300 SEK, which means women earn 85% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a crop production advisor?
  - Usually, a university degree in agronomy or agricultural science, often 3–5 years.
• What is the job market like for crop production advisors?
  - There are 360 available jobs within the profession, but no exact forecast for this specific occupation.
• What are the typical tasks of a crop production advisor?
  - Advising on cultivation, plant protection, nutrients, and sustainability issues for farmers.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Company cars, wellness contributions, skill development, and flexible hours are common benefits.
• Are there career opportunities within the profession?
  - Yes, for example specialist roles, project management, or starting your own consultancy after some experience.