Ecotoxicologist

What does an ecotoxicologist do? – Tasks and work environment

An ecotoxicologist works to investigate how chemical substances and pollutants affect the environment, ecosystems, and living organisms. Common tasks include laboratory analyses, field studies, risk assessments, and advising on environmentally hazardous substances. Ecotoxicologists often work in project teams alongside researchers, environmental engineers, or authorities to identify and evaluate environmental risks. The work environment varies between offices, laboratories, and outdoor settings, depending on the nature of the workplace and projects. The role often involves high responsibility for quality and accuracy, as the results can form the basis for important decisions regarding environmental protection and public health.

Salary development over time

The salary of an ecotoxicologist has shown a clear increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 59,400 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 56 100 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, there was a sharp rise to 65 600 SEK in 2024, corresponding to an increase of about 17% from the previous year. This trend reflects a growing demand for environmental and risk assessment expertise, as well as an increased focus on sustainability in business and the public sector. Fluctuations may also be due to variations in project funding and the labor market's need for specialists in toxicology and environmental science. Overall, the trend indicates that the profession is gaining importance, which is reflected in salary development.

Ecotoxicologist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 65 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, private sector worker)
• Highest salary: 76,400 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Hourly wage (average): 395 SEK
• Women earn: 63 600 SEK/month (88% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 72 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No specific statistics available

Education and qualifications

To work as an ecotoxicologist, a university degree in natural sciences is required, often with specialization in biology, chemistry, or environmental science. Many ecotoxicologists also pursue further education or specialized courses in toxicology and ecology. Practical experience from laboratory work, field studies, and project management is highly valuable. For some positions, a doctoral degree may be advantageous, especially in research or advanced risk assessment.

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or environmental science (3 years)
• Master's degree in ecotoxicology or related field (2 years)
• Specialized courses in toxicology and environmental risk assessment
• Laboratory practice and field studies
• Doctoral degree (optional, often in research)

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for ecotoxicologists include occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Many employers also offer professional development, conference participation, and sometimes additional vacation days. Access to modern laboratory equipment and advanced analytical tools is often a natural part of the work environment.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as an ecotoxicologist can vary depending on the region and labor market demand. Since the profession is specialized and requires advanced education, the number of applicants is relatively limited, but the number of available positions is also not large. A challenge is to stay updated on new legislation and technological advances in the environmental field. International standards and regulations may also require continuous further training. The ability to communicate scientific results to authorities, companies, and the public is crucial, as is handling complex data and analyzing uncertainties.

Tips for aspiring ecotoxicologists

To succeed as an ecotoxicologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in environmental issues. Studies in biology and chemistry provide a solid foundation, but it is also wise to take courses in toxicology and environmental risk assessment to deepen your knowledge. Curiosity and a willingness to learn continuously are important traits, as the field develops rapidly. Practical experience from laboratory work and field studies enhances chances of obtaining interesting jobs, and networking within the industry can open doors to projects and collaborations. Good communication skills are necessary to convey complex results to both experts and laypeople. Finally, accuracy and a sense of responsibility are essential, as the work often has significant implications for both the environment and human health.

Key facts about Ecotoxicologists

• Educational level: Master's degree recommended
• Work environment: Laboratory, office, and fieldwork
• Typical work form: Project-based and interdisciplinary
• Demand: 143 available jobs within the profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 88% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an ecotoxicologist can advance to project manager, specialist in environmental risk assessment, or research leader. There are also opportunities to work internationally or within government agencies, consulting firms, and the pharmaceutical industry. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts do not provide a specific assessment for ecotoxicologists, as the profession is part of the broader group of pharmacologists and biomedical scientists. Nevertheless, there are 143 available jobs within the group, indicating a relatively stable demand. Future prospects are influenced by societal development and increased focus on environmental issues, which often favor the profession.

Frequently asked questions about Ecotoxicologists

• What does an ecotoxicologist earn?
  - An ecotoxicologist has an average salary of 65 600 SEK per month, with variations between 40,500 SEK and 76,400 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become an ecotoxicologist?
  - Usually, a master's degree in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or ecotoxicology is required, often supplemented with specialized courses and practical experience.
• Are there gender pay differences?
  - Yes, women earn on average 88% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for ecotoxicologists?
  - There are 143 available jobs in the profession, but the Swedish Public Employment Service does not provide a separate forecast specifically for ecotoxicologists.
• What are the duties of an ecotoxicologist?
  - Duties include laboratory analyses, risk assessments, field studies, and advising on environmentally hazardous substances.
• What is the highest salary for an ecotoxicologist?
  - The highest reported salary is 76,400 SEK per month for a male private sector employee.
• What kind of work environment do ecotoxicologists have?
  - They work in laboratories, offices, and sometimes outdoors, often in project-based and interdisciplinary teams.