Work environment engineer

What does an Occupational Safety Engineer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Occupational Safety Engineers work to prevent and manage risks in the work environment to protect workers' health and safety. Typical tasks include conducting risk assessments, inspecting workplaces, suggesting improvements, and investigating accidents or near-misses. The role involves collaboration with managers and employees, as well as contact with authorities and external experts. Occupational Safety Engineers are often employed by larger companies, consulting firms, or the public sector. The work environment is usually office-based but can also involve fieldwork at factories, construction sites, or other areas where work environment risks are present.

Salary development over time

The salary for Occupational Safety Engineers has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,600 SEK per month, increasing to 51 200 SEK in 2023 – a rise of approximately 5.3%. In 2024, the average salary has further increased to 53 200 SEK, which is nearly a 3.9% increase from the previous year. This salary development is driven by increased demand for expertise in occupational health and safety, where employers value qualified engineers with knowledge of occupational health legislation and risk management. The trend indicates that the profession remains attractive and that employers are willing to invest in skills to meet rising demands for workplace safety.

Occupational Safety Engineer salary – comprehensive 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/hour (hourly worker, average)
• Women: 51 700 SEK/month (95% of men's salary)
• Men: 54 500 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as an Occupational Safety Engineer, a post-secondary education in engineering, environmental science, occupational health, or similar is usually required. Many have an engineering degree with specialization in occupational health or environmental technology, often supplemented with courses in occupational health legislation and risk management. Practical experience, such as through trainee programs or internships, is often advantageous and can be crucial for establishing oneself in the profession.

• Formal degree: Engineering, environmental science, or occupational health (3 years or more)
• Certifications: Courses in occupational health, risk management, and occupational health legislation
• Internship: Relevant internships or trainee programs during or after studies
• Prerequisites: High school education with a technical or science focus
• Tips for choosing: Specialization in environmental and safety issues increases competitiveness

Common benefits and compensations

Occupational Safety Engineers are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, flexible working hours, and wellness allowances. Pension schemes and opportunities for professional development are common, along with insurances and compensation for work-related travel. Some employers also offer bonus programs, subsidized lunches, and discounts on healthcare or gym memberships.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as Occupational Safety Engineers varies depending on region and industry, but demand for the profession is generally considered stable. Challenges include staying updated on constantly changing laws and regulations, and balancing employer interests with employee safety. Engineers also need to handle complex situations where quick decisions are required, and collaboration across disciplines is essential for ensuring safe workplaces.

Tips for aspiring Occupational Safety Engineers

To succeed as an Occupational Safety Engineer, it is helpful to have analytical skills and a genuine interest in workers' conditions. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation with management and staff, which is fundamental in the role. Attention to detail is important, especially in risk assessments and reporting. Being solution-oriented is also valuable, as workplace safety issues often require creative and practical measures. Continual education and keeping up with developments in occupational health legislation strengthen your expertise. Good judgment makes it easier to prioritize actions in stressful situations. Building a strong network in the industry is also advantageous, as many positions are filled through contacts and recommendations.

Key facts about Occupational Safety Engineers

• Education level: Post-secondary education, often an engineering degree (3+ years)
• Work environment: Office-based with some fieldwork
• Typical work hours: Full-time, often daytime
• Demand: 191 job openings in 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn 95% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, Occupational Safety Engineers have opportunities to advance to roles such as safety specialist, head of occupational health and safety, or consultant in occupational health issues. Some choose to specialize in areas like chemical management, ergonomics, or environmental management. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts, no precise assessment is available due to limited data, but the industry offers stable career opportunities, and demand for qualified occupational health expertise is expected to remain strong. Technological developments and increased requirements for sustainable workplaces are also expected to further enhance the relevance of the profession in the future.

Common questions about Occupational Safety Engineers

• What does an Occupational Safety Engineer earn?
  - The average salary for an Occupational Safety Engineer is 53 200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 51 700 SEK per month, which is 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Occupational Safety Engineer?
  - Usually, a post-secondary education in engineering, environmental science, or occupational health, often an engineering degree.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Regional variations exist, but the average level is around 53 200 SEK per month nationally.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Larger companies, consulting firms, and the public sector are the most common employers for Occupational Safety Engineers.
• What are the future job prospects?
  - There are 191 available jobs in the field, with demand considered stable, although no precise forecast is available.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Occupational Safety Engineer?
  - The highest salary is 58,700 SEK per month and the lowest is 41,700 SEK per month.