What does a fisheries inspector do? – Tasks and work environment
A fisheries inspector works to monitor and control fishing activities and ensure compliance with laws and regulations related to fisheries. Tasks include administrative duties such as reporting and documentation, as well as practical fieldwork involving inspections at ports, fishing vessels, and processing facilities. Fisheries inspectors often collaborate with other authorities and may participate in international control efforts. The work environment is diverse and can involve both office work and demanding conditions at sea, requiring flexibility and good physical health.
Salary development over time
The salary for fisheries inspectors has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,100 SEK per month, increasing to 37 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 38 900 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.8% during the period. The increase can partly be explained by an increased need for qualified inspectors as well as general salary trends within the public and private sectors. Although the profession belongs to "Other officers" and is influenced by broader market trends, some specialization may contribute to salary growth. Meanwhile, differences between genders and employment types continue to be significant.
Fisheries inspector salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (female, privately employed worker)
- Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, privately employed officer)
- Hourly wage: 234 SEK
- Women's average salary: 38 000 SEK/month
- Men's average salary: 41 500 SEK/month
- Women’s salary as % of men’s: 92%
Fisheries inspectors often need to be prepared to work irregular hours and quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. The work can involve long days at sea and sometimes overnight stays onboard, making good teamwork and stress resilience important qualities.
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a fisheries inspector usually involves post-secondary education in fields such as marine biology, environmental science, or similar natural sciences. For positions within Swedish authorities, specific courses in fisheries legislation and environmental law, as well as practical experience in supervision or control activities, are often required. Personal qualities such as thoroughness and good communication skills are also important.
- Post-secondary education: Natural science or environmental science (3 years or more)
- Courses/certifications: Fisheries legislation, environmental law, and supervision
- Practical experience: Fieldwork or government service experience is advantageous
- Prerequisites: B driver's license and good swimming ability may be required
- Tips: Engagement in environmental issues and interest in marine and water environments facilitate career choice
Common benefits and compensations
Fisheries inspectors are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pensions, wellness contributions, and compensation for unsocial hours. At sea, allowances and extra leave may be offered, and some employers also provide skill development and insurance for accidents at work.
Competition and challenges
The job market for fisheries inspectors is characterized by balance, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an excess of workforce nationally. Over the next five years, demand is expected to decrease somewhat, partly due to technological developments and increased automation in supervision and control. The profession demands high physical and mental endurance, especially during inspections under difficult weather conditions or in conflict situations. Competence in digital systems and reporting is becoming increasingly important as work tasks evolve. To remain competitive, relevant education, practical experience, and the ability to work independently are essential.
Tips for those who want to become a fisheries inspector
To succeed as a fisheries inspector, it is beneficial to be flexible and comfortable with varied work environments, as the job often alternates between office and fieldwork. A strong environmental commitment is a great asset, especially when interpreting and applying regulations fairly. Good communication skills facilitate contact with both professional fishermen and authorities, and thoroughness is crucial in reporting and documentation. Being stress-resistant and able to handle unexpected situations is important, particularly during inspections at sea. Staying updated on legislation and environmental issues enhances prospects for advancement. Lastly, teamwork skills are advantageous, as many inspections are conducted in teams or in collaboration with other authorities.
Key facts about Fisheries Inspector
- Education level: Post-secondary education in natural sciences or environment
- Work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office environment
- Employment type: Government-employed or private sector officer
- Demand: Moderate, but expected to decline over 5 years
- Special knowledge: Fisheries legislation, supervision, and environmental law
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a fisheries inspector can advance to more specialized roles, such as coordinator for larger control operations or expert in international fisheries projects. Some choose to further their education in environmental law or marine biology to broaden career opportunities, while others move into managerial or policy roles within authorities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the "Other officers" group, the job market is expected to be balanced, but demand is projected to decrease in the long term. This is partly due to increased automation and digitalization of inspection processes. Despite this, there remains a need for qualified inspectors, especially for complex and international assignments. Currently, there are approximately 758 available positions in the field, indicating that employment opportunities still exist for those with the right skills.
Frequently asked questions about Fisheries Inspector
- What is the average salary of a Fisheries Inspector?
- A fisheries inspector has an average monthly salary of 38 900 SEK according to current statistics.
- How do salary differences between men and women look?
- Men earn an average of 41 500 SEK while women earn 38 000 SEK, which means women have 92% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a fisheries inspector?
- Post-secondary education in natural sciences, environmental science, or similar fields is required, along with courses in fisheries legislation and supervision.
- Are there regional salary differences for fisheries inspectors?
- Some variation may occur depending on employer and region, but statistics mainly show differences based on employment type and gender.
- What are the future prospects for fisheries inspectors?
- The job market is expected to be balanced nationally, but demand is projected to decline slightly over the next five years.
- What personal qualities are important in this profession?
- Attention to detail, flexibility, stress resilience, and good communication skills are especially important qualities for a fisheries inspector.
- What are the most common benefits?
- Collective agreements, occupational pension, wellness contributions, and compensation for unsocial hours are common benefits.
