Fishery biologist salary

What Does a Fisheries Biologist Do?

Fisheries biologists, also known as aquatic biologists, conduct important studies and research to understand, conserve, and manage fish populations and their habitats. Their work is crucial for ensuring sustainable fish stocks and protecting our aquatic ecosystems. This may involve everything from fieldwork in lakes and rivers to laboratory analysis and data modeling.

Education and Qualifications

To become a fisheries biologist, a bachelor's degree in biology, marine biology, ecology, or a related field is required. Many fisheries biologists also pursue advanced studies to obtain a master's or doctoral degree, which may be necessary for certain research positions or leadership roles in the field. The education often focuses on courses in biology, ecology, environmental science, and statistics.

Job Market and Career Opportunities

The job market for fisheries biologists is competitive but also offers many opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Employment can be found in government agencies working on environmental and natural resource issues, research institutions, academic institutions, and environmental consulting firms. To increase the chances of employment, it is advantageous to have practical experience through internships or volunteer work related to ecology and environmental science.

Salary Statistics and Development

The average salary for a fisheries biologist in Sweden is 37 500 SEK per month. The salary development has seen an increase from 36 100 SEK to 37 500 SEK since the last measurement. The gender pay gap is relatively small, with women earning 97% of what men earn, with an average monthly salary of 37 100 SEK for women compared to 38 100 SEK for men.

Considerations

Working as a fisheries biologist can be demanding but also very rewarding. It often requires work in outdoor environments under various weather conditions and may involve irregular working hours depending on the nature of the research project. It is important for aspiring fisheries biologists to have a strong passion for natural sciences and a willingness to contribute to environmental sustainability. Strong analytical skills and the ability to work in teams are also essential.

Benefits in the Profession

Within the field of fisheries biology, there may be various benefits depending on the employer. Common benefits include opportunities for further education and specialized courses paid for by the employer. This is particularly valuable in a scientific field where constant updating of knowledge and techniques is crucial.