Master of Science in Engineering, Environmental Engineering

What does a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology works on developing and implementing technical solutions that reduce environmental impact from society and industry. Tasks often include project management, environmental risk analysis, development of purification techniques, and advising on environmental legislation and sustainability strategies. The work is usually carried out in collaboration with other engineers, environmental experts, and authorities, and environmental projects can range from water treatment to waste management and energy efficiency. The work environment is varied – some time is spent in offices for analysis and reporting, while field visits and site inspections are common, especially for larger infrastructure or industrial projects.

Salary development over time

The salary for Civil Engineers in Environmental Technology has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month. In 2023, the average increased to 47 200 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 9.8%. For 2024, the salary has continued upward and now stands at 49 400 SEK, a further increase of 4.7% from the previous year. This salary trend reflects a growing demand for environmental technical expertise in line with stricter environmental regulations and expanding sustainability ambitions in both private and public sectors. Despite some recent slowdown, the trend remains positive, and the profession’s specialist nature helps keep salaries above the average for engineering professions.

Environmental Engineer, salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (woman, public sector, upper secondary education up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (man, private sector, postgraduate education <3 years)
• Hourly wage: 297 SEK
• Women earn: 48 700 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 50 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology, a five-year engineering degree with specialization in environmental technology or related fields is required. The program combines mathematics, chemistry, engineering, and environmental science, often including both theoretical and practical components. Internships, thesis projects, and collaborative work with companies or authorities provide valuable experience and contacts in the industry. Advanced knowledge in areas such as water treatment, waste management, or sustainable energy is advantageous.

• Formal degree: Master of Science in Engineering (5 years)
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility plus specific requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Internships: Often included as part of the program, in collaboration with companies or authorities
• Certifications: Opportunity for industry-specific certifications such as environmental auditing or project management
• Tips: Choose specialization and projects based on future areas of interest, e.g., water, energy, or waste

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental Engineers in the field are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development. Business travel, remote work options, and favorable insurance packages are common. Some employers also offer bonus schemes or extra vacation days as supplements to the base salary.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology is considered balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates. The demand for environmental technical expertise is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, according to the Swedish Employment Agency’s forecasts. Challenges in the profession often involve staying updated on new environmental regulations and rapidly evolving technologies. Additional challenges include communicating complex technical solutions to decision-makers and balancing economic and environmental requirements in projects. Competition for certain roles within the public sector may be somewhat higher, especially in metropolitan regions.

Tips for aspiring Civil Engineers in Environmental Technology

To succeed as a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in sustainability issues. Curiosity and a desire to continuously learn new things facilitate adapting to rapid changes in technology and environmental legislation. Good communication skills are important, as the work often involves presenting technical solutions to both technical and non-technical audiences. Collaboration skills and an open mind for interdisciplinary work are essential, as projects often involve experts from multiple fields. Taking initiative and driving projects forward, as well as being meticulous in analysis and documentation, are valuable traits. Engagement and perseverance help solve complex problems and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Key facts about Civil Engineers in Environmental Technology

• Education level: Master’s degree in engineering (5 years)
• Work environment: Varied between offices, fieldwork, and project meetings
• Demand: Moderate, unchanged forecast over 5 years
• Typical work form: Project-based work within both private and public sectors
• Number of job openings: 143 current positions nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology, opportunities open up for roles such as project manager, environmental consultant, technical specialist, or head of environmental department. Further education and certifications in areas such as environmental management or sustainable urban development can strengthen career prospects. According to the Swedish Employment Agency, the job market for specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology is balanced nationally with moderate opportunities for employment, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The increasing importance of environmental and sustainability issues in business and government ensures continued relevance and development opportunities in the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Civil Engineers in Environmental Technology

• What does a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology earn?
  - The average salary is 49 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 48 700 SEK per month, which corresponds to 97% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What education is needed to become a Civil Engineer in Environmental Technology?
  - A five-year Master’s degree in engineering with specialization in environmental technology is required, often complemented with internships or thesis work.
• What is the job market outlook for Civil Engineers in Environmental Technology?
  - The job market is balanced with moderate opportunities for employment and unchanged demand over five years.
• What are typical tasks in the profession?
  - Typical tasks include project management, environmental analysis, development of technical solutions, and advising on environmental legislation.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels may vary between regions, but detailed regional differences are not available for this profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 55,800 SEK/month and the lowest is 38,100 SEK/month, depending on gender, sector, and education level.