- Salary statistics
- Occupational hygienist salary
Occupational hygienist salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
41 000 - 59 200 SEK / month
Women earn 96% of what men do.
Säkerhetsarbete
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Salary progression Occupational hygienist
What does an occupational hygienist do? – Tasks and work environment
An occupational hygienist works to identify, assess, and prevent risks in the work environment that can affect people's health. They analyze chemical, physical, and biological factors in the workplace and provide advice on measures to minimize exposure to hazardous substances or work processes. The role often involves performing measurements, inspections, and risk assessments at workplaces within industry, public sector, or consultancy. Contact with employers, safety representatives, and authorities is a central part, as well as educating staff about health risks and preventive measures.
Salary development over time
The salary for occupational hygienists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48600 kronor per month, which increased to 53 200 kronor in 2023. During 2024, the salary has risen further to 54 500 kronor per month, representing a total increase of just over 9% over the three-year period. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for occupational health expertise as work environment legislation tightens and companies’ responsibility for preventive health measures grows. The job market also values higher education levels and specialization within the field, which may have driven up salaries for qualified occupational hygienists.
Many occupational hygienists combine fieldwork with advanced laboratory analysis, attracting both those who enjoy practical work and those who thrive on analytical challenges. The role often requires flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments, as assignments can vary greatly between different industries and workplaces.
Occupational hygienist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 54 500 kr/month
- Lowest salary: 41,700 kr/month (female, private sector employee, high school education)
- Highest salary: 58,700 kr/month (male, private sector manager, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 320 kr/hour (average, hourly worker)
- Women earn: 53 300 kr/month (96% of what men earn)
- Men earn: 55 500 kr/month
- Regional differences: Data on salary variation between regions is limited, but metropolitan areas tend to offer slightly higher salaries.
Education and qualifications
To work as an occupational hygienist, a post-secondary education in technology, chemistry, biology, or occupational health engineering is usually required. Many have a university or engineering degree focusing on occupational health, environmental science, or similar. Practical experience in occupational health work and specialized courses in toxicology, ventilation, or measurement technology are often advantageous, as well as certifications in the occupational health field. Some employers require internships or trainee programs to ensure the right competence and understanding of industry-specific risks.
- Formal education: University or engineering degree (3–5 years) in occupational health, chemistry, technology, or environmental science
- Specialized courses: Occupational health engineering, toxicology, ventilation, measurement technology
- Certifications: Possibility of certification via agencies like the Swedish Work Environment Authority or industry organizations
- Internships/trainee programs: Often advantageous or required by larger employers
- Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education is recommended
Common benefits and compensations
Occupational hygienists often have access to benefits such as occupational pension schemes, wellness allowances, generous vacation policies, and sometimes flexible working hours or remote work options. Some employers also offer professional development, further education, and opportunities to participate in conferences and industry days. Insurances and travel allowances related to work are other common benefits.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an occupational hygienist can vary depending on region and employer, but the profession is relatively specialized and requires expert competence. Challenges include staying updated on new legislation and research findings, as well as handling complex risk assessments that consider both technical and human factors. The work can sometimes involve tight deadlines and high demands for documentation and reporting. At the same time, there is a positive trend in demand, as occupational health issues are gaining increased priority in both private and public sectors. The opportunity to make a real impact on the work environment is a strong motivation for many in the profession.
Tips for those who want to become an occupational hygienist
To succeed as an occupational hygienist, it’s good to combine analytical skills with strong communication abilities. Precision is crucial when working with measurements and risk assessments, so developing a systematic approach during education pays off. A genuine curiosity about technology and environmental issues helps maintain motivation, especially when it comes to keeping up with new legislation and technological developments. The ability to collaborate and build trust is important, as the role often involves working with many different stakeholders at the workplace. Actively seeking internships and participating in networks for occupational health engineers can provide valuable contacts and practical experience. Finally, patience and perseverance are helpful when implementing changes and working long-term on improving the work environment.
Key facts about occupational hygienists
- Educational level: University or engineering degree (3–5 years)
- Typical work setting: Consultant, public sector, or industry
- Average salary: 54 500 kr/month
- Gender distribution: Women earn 96% of what men do
- Number of available jobs: 191 within the profession (May 2024)
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years of experience, an occupational hygienist can advance to specialist roles, project manager, or leadership positions within occupational health and safety. There are also opportunities to work as a consultant within larger engineering or occupational health companies, or to further specialize in areas such as toxicology, ventilation, or risk management. The Swedish Public Employment Service does not make a separate forecast for occupational hygienists, but indicates that for the broader group of occupational health engineers and environmental hygienists, demand remains strong, although statistical data is limited. The job market is influenced by legislation and increasing focus on sustainable workplaces, which suggests stable or growing opportunities in the future.
Common questions about occupational hygienists
- What does an occupational hygienist earn?
- The average salary for an occupational hygienist is 54 500 kronor per month. - How do salary differences between men and women look?
- Men earn on average 55 500 kronor, women 53 300 kronor per month. - What education is required to become an occupational hygienist?
- Typically, a university or engineering degree in occupational health, chemistry, technology, or environmental science. - Are there good job opportunities for occupational hygienists?
- There are 191 available jobs within the profession, but no exact forecast for occupational hygienists. - Who are the most common employers?
- Employers are found in industry, public sector, and consulting firms. - What does the salary development look like?
- Salaries have increased by just over 9% in the past three years. - What personal qualities are important in the profession?
- Analytical skills, precision, and good communication abilities are central qualities for occupational hygienists.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 47200 kr | 47800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 51100 kr | 53200 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 54800 kr | 56800 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 55700 kr | 57400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 52700 kr | 54500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47800 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47800 kr | 50100 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49600 kr | 51500 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51500 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 51600 kr | 51600 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49200 kr | 51000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47800 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47800 kr | 50100 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49600 kr | 51500 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51500 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 51600 kr | 51600 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49200 kr | 51000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 47200 kr | 47800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 51600 kr | 53700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56600 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57400 kr | 59000 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53500 kr | 55300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 47200 kr | 47800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 51600 kr | 53700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56600 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57400 kr | 59000 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53500 kr | 55300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 51800 kr | 55300 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 54800 kr | 57400 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 55900 kr | 58000 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 53300 kr | 55500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47700 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 48000 kr | 51200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49900 kr | 52600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51800 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 54200 kr | 54200 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49500 kr | 51800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47700 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 48000 kr | 51200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49900 kr | 52600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51800 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 54200 kr | 54200 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49500 kr | 51800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 52500 kr | 56000 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56100 kr | 58600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57200 kr | 59300 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 54000 kr | 56100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 52500 kr | 56000 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56100 kr | 58600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57200 kr | 59300 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 54000 kr | 56100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 44500 kr | 45500 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 50500 kr | 51500 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 54800 kr | 56400 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 55400 kr | 56400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 52100 kr | 53300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47900 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47700 kr | 49300 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49400 kr | 50700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49600 kr | 51200 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 48500 kr | 48500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49000 kr | 50400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47900 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47700 kr | 49300 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49400 kr | 50700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49600 kr | 51200 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 48500 kr | 48500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49000 kr | 50400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 51000 kr | 51800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57000 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57700 kr | 58500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53000 kr | 54200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 51000 kr | 51800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57000 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57700 kr | 58500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53000 kr | 54200 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Occupational hygienist has the SSYK code 2181, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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