Work environment administrator

What does an occupational safety officer do? – Tasks and work environment

An occupational safety officer works to ensure that the work environment at a workplace complies with legal requirements and contributes to a safe and healthy workplace. Tasks include identifying risks, conducting inspections, investigating accidents and near-misses, and developing action plans for improvements. Additionally, training efforts for staff and management on occupational health and safety issues are common. The role requires a good understanding of occupational safety legislation, systematic work environment management, and often collaboration with union representatives and employer organizations.

Salary development over time

The salary for occupational safety officers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,600 SEK per month, then increased to 51 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 53 200 SEK, representing a salary increase of approximately 9.5% over three years. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for occupational safety expertise as legislation develops and employers place greater emphasis on preventive work environment measures. More employers are also demanding higher education levels, which in turn influences salary levels upward. At the same time, specialized roles and experience have proven to be important factors in salary development within the profession.

Occupational safety officer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 53 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, high school education)
• Highest salary: 58,700 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 320 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn an average of 51 700 SEK (95% of men's salary of 54 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Not specified

Education and qualifications

To work as an occupational safety officer, a post-secondary education in occupational safety, environmental science, engineering, or a related field is usually required. Many have a university or college degree of at least three years, often supplemented with specialized courses in occupational safety legislation and systematic work environment management. Practical experience and knowledge of labor law issues are also highly meritorious, and employers often seek certifications within the field.

• Formal education: University or college degree (3 years or more)
• Certifications: Specialized courses in occupational safety, labor law, and safety
• Internship: Internship or trainee positions during education are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of occupational safety legislation and risk management
• Tips: Choose education focused on occupational safety or environmental protection for best opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Occupational safety officers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexitime, remote work options, and additional vacation days. It is also common to have occupational pension schemes, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes bonuses linked to safety projects or improvement initiatives. Benefits vary depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an occupational safety officer varies depending on region and labor market demand. In larger cities and with major employers, competition can be high, especially for recent graduates without specialization or experience. At the same time, the occupational safety field is constantly evolving, which requires ongoing training and updates on new laws and guidelines. Occupational safety officers may also face challenges in balancing the interests of employers and employees, as well as driving change in organizations where occupational health and safety issues have previously been low priority.

Tips for those who want to become an occupational safety officer

To succeed as an occupational safety officer, it is good to combine analytical skills with strong communication skills and a solutions-oriented attitude. Being thorough and flexible facilitates handling complex issues and coordinating different stakeholders. It is also valuable to develop the ability to listen to both employers and employees, as trust is crucial in the role. Keeping up to date with legislation and new occupational safety trends gives an advantage, as does actively seeking internships or trainee positions during education. Collaboration skills and integrity are central qualities, especially when driving change and upholding safety standards. Finally, demonstrating engagement with occupational health and safety issues early in your career is important.

Key facts about occupational safety officers

• Education level: Post-secondary education (3 years or more recommended)
• Work environment: Office-based with field inspections and assessments
• Typical work hours: Full-time, often daytime
• Demand: 191 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of what men do in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, occupational safety officers can advance to specialist roles, occupational safety coordinators, or managers within occupational health and safety. It is also possible to work as a consultant or trainer in occupational safety issues. The forecast from the Employment Service is uncertain due to limited data, but indications suggest continued demand for expertise in the field, especially as legislation and requirements for occupational health and safety increase. In May 2024, there were 191 available jobs, indicating a relatively healthy job market for the profession. For those who further their education or specialize in areas such as systematic work environment management or environmental health, there are good opportunities for continued career development.

Frequently asked questions about occupational safety officers

• What does an occupational safety officer earn?
  - An occupational safety officer has an average salary of 53 200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn 51 700 SEK on average, which corresponds to 95% of men's average salary of 54 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become an occupational safety officer?
  - Post-secondary education of at least three years in occupational safety, environmental science, or engineering is recommended.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, it is possible to advance to specialist, manager, or consultant within the occupational safety field.
• What is the job market like for occupational safety officers?
  - There are 191 available jobs within the profession (May 2024), but no official forecast is available.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Larger private companies, the public sector, and consulting firms are common employers.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical skills, communication skills, and teamwork ability are highly valued.