- Salary statistics
- Ecologist salary
Ecologist salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
39 800 - 53 400 SEK / month
Women earn 98% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
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Salary progression Ecologist
What does an Ecologist do? – Tasks and work environment
An Ecologist works with analyzing, evaluating, and protecting ecosystems and biological diversity. Tasks often include field studies, data collection on plants, animals, and their habitats, as well as assessing environmental impacts from human activities. Ecologists may participate in projects related to nature conservation, environmental impact assessments, and advising authorities or companies. The work takes place both outdoors in varied terrain and indoors with analysis, report writing, and presentations. The work environment is characterized by flexibility but may involve travel and working in sometimes challenging weather conditions.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the Ecologist salary has shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 49 400 in 2023 and reaching 49 900 in 2024. This represents a salary increase of nearly 15% over three years, which is higher than the average for many other science-related professions. This development can largely be explained by increased demand for environmental expertise in both the public sector and industry, where sustainability issues have gained greater importance. Despite this, gender pay gaps remain noticeable, although they have decreased somewhat over time. The market's need for qualified ecologists and the ever-growing environmental agenda have contributed to pushing up salaries for the profession.
Ecologist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 298 SEK
- Women: 49 500 SEK/month
- Men: 50 500 SEK/month
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of what men do
Education and qualifications
To work as an Ecologist, a university degree in natural sciences with specialization in ecology, environmental science, or biology is usually required. Programs often include both theoretical and practical components, with fieldwork and laboratory work as central parts. Depending on the area of work, advanced knowledge in statistics, GIS, or environmental law can be advantageous.
- Bachelor's degree in biology/environmental science: 3 years
- Master's degree (optional, often advantageous): 2 years
- Internships or fieldwork: Common part of the education
- Courses in GIS, statistics, and environmental law: Provide competitive advantages
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and science subjects from high school
Ecologists often work in interdisciplinary teams where collaboration with other experts, such as engineers or urban planners, is crucial for the success of larger societal projects.
Common benefits and compensation
Ecologists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. In some cases, options for remote work, further training, and extra vacation days may also be available, especially in the public sector and larger consulting firms.
Competition and challenges
Competition for positions as an Ecologist can be intense, especially in popular regions or with employers that have high attractiveness. At the same time, there is a steady demand for ecological expertise within authorities, consulting industries, and research sectors. Challenges often include keeping up to date with new legislation, technical tools, and changing environmental goals. Balancing fieldwork and administration can be demanding, as well as translating scientific findings into practical advice for organizations and decision-makers. Political shifts and project funding also influence the job market for ecologists.
Tips for aspiring Ecologists
To succeed as an Ecologist, it is beneficial to combine curiosity and analytical skills with a structured work approach. Engaging early in field studies and environmental projects provides valuable experience and networks, which are useful for future job searches. Precision is critical when collecting and analyzing data, while initiative is needed to take responsibility for sub-projects or collaborations. Communication skills are important, as ecologists often present their results to both specialists and the public. Being flexible and adaptable to new work environments or research questions is also a significant asset in the profession.
Key facts about Ecologists
- Salary range: 38,100–55,800 SEK/month
- Educational level: Bachelor's or master's in biology/environmental science
- Work environment: Alternates between fieldwork and office
- Demand: Moderate, 143 job openings in Sweden
- Gender distribution: Women earn 98% of men's salaries
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an Ecologist, career development can lead to specialist roles within nature conservation, environmental assessment, or project management. Many choose to deepen their expertise in areas such as water environments, climate impact, or environmental monitoring. Others move into consulting or research-related positions. According to the Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities are medium-sized and expected to remain stable over the next five years, with a continued balanced recruitment situation. There are approximately 143 job openings in the profession, reflecting a stable but competitive market. Specialization and further education can provide additional career opportunities and higher salaries.
Frequently asked questions about Ecologists
- What is the average salary for an Ecologist?
- An Ecologist has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month. - What are the highest and lowest salaries for an Ecologist?
- The highest salary is 55,800 SEK and the lowest is 38,100 SEK per month. - What is the gender pay gap within the Ecologist profession?
- Women earn 98% of what men do in the profession. - What education is required to become an Ecologist?
- A bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or environmental science is required, sometimes supplemented with a master's degree. - What is the job market outlook for Ecologists?
- The job market is considered balanced, with medium opportunities according to the Employment Service. - What are the typical tasks of an Ecologist?
- Tasks include field studies, environmental analyses, reporting, and advising on environmental protection. - Are there regional salary differences for Ecologists?
- Salary levels can vary depending on employer and region, but general differences are not always clearly reported.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 43300 kr | 43900 kr |
| 35-44 | 48700 kr | 49200 kr | |
| 45-54 | 55900 kr | 57000 kr | |
| 55-64 | 98% | 53600 kr | 54100 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 49300 kr | 49900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 83% | 34900 kr | 35000 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 41400 kr | 41400 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 46200 kr | 46300 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 47800 kr | 47900 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 48300 kr | 48400 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 50900 kr | 51100 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 46300 kr | 46400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 33900 kr | 34100 kr | |
| 25-34 | 98% | 41200 kr | 41200 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 46100 kr | 46200 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 47500 kr | 47600 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 48100 kr | 48200 kr |
| 65-68 | 87% | 50700 kr | 50900 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 46100 kr | 46200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 43200 kr | 43300 kr |
| 35-44 | 92% | 46600 kr | 46700 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 49600 kr | 49700 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 49800 kr | 49800 kr |
| 65-68 | 53300 kr | 53300 kr | |
| Snitt | 99% | 47700 kr | 47800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 102% | 43900 kr | 44600 kr |
| 35-44 | 49600 kr | 50200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 101% | 56700 kr | 57400 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 50300 kr | 51100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 102% | 43900 kr | 44600 kr |
| 35-44 | 49600 kr | 50200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 101% | 56700 kr | 57400 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 50300 kr | 51100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 43300 kr | 43900 kr |
| 45-54 | 56000 kr | 57600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 98% | 54000 kr | 54500 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 49700 kr | 50500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 83% | 38800 kr | 38900 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 42300 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 46100 kr | 46200 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 46800 kr | 47000 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 48400 kr | 48400 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 53500 kr | 53600 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 46600 kr | 46700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41900 kr | 41900 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 45900 kr | 45900 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 46600 kr | 46800 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 48100 kr | 48200 kr |
| 65-68 | 87% | 53800 kr | 53900 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 46400 kr | 46500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 45300 kr | 45600 kr |
| 35-44 | 92% | 50400 kr | 50400 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48300 kr | 48500 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 51600 kr | 51600 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 48100 kr | 48300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 102% | 43400 kr | 44200 kr |
| 45-54 | 59200 kr | 61300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 101% | 56300 kr | 57100 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 50500 kr | 51400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 102% | 43400 kr | 44200 kr |
| 45-54 | 59200 kr | 61300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 101% | 56300 kr | 57100 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 50500 kr | 51400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 43300 kr | 43800 kr |
| 35-44 | 49000 kr | 49600 kr | |
| 55-64 | 98% | 53200 kr | 53500 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 48900 kr | 49500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 83% | 32000 kr | 32200 kr |
| 25-34 | 97% | 41000 kr | 41000 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 46200 kr | 46300 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48300 kr | 48400 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 48200 kr | 48400 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 47400 kr | 47700 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 46100 kr | 46200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 32000 kr | 32200 kr | |
| 25-34 | 98% | 40900 kr | 40900 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 46200 kr | 46400 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48000 kr | 48100 kr |
| 55-64 | 100% | 48100 kr | 48200 kr |
| 65-68 | 87% | 46400 kr | 46700 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 45900 kr | 46000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 41700 kr | 41700 kr |
| 35-44 | 92% | 46200 kr | 46200 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 50100 kr | 50100 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 49300 kr | 49300 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 47600 kr | 47600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 102% | 44400 kr | 45100 kr |
| 35-44 | 50600 kr | 51400 kr | |
| 55-64 | 101% | 57200 kr | 57800 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 50200 kr | 50900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 102% | 44400 kr | 45100 kr |
| 35-44 | 50600 kr | 51400 kr | |
| 55-64 | 101% | 57200 kr | 57800 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 50200 kr | 50900 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 Ecologist has the SSYK code 2183, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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