Fisheries controller

What does a fisheries inspector do? – Tasks and work environment

A fisheries inspector is responsible for monitoring and ensuring compliance with fishing regulations within Swedish waters and at landing sites. Tasks include inspecting fishing boats, conducting landing controls, sampling catches, and reporting and documenting results. The role also involves advising professional and recreational fishers on rules and sustainable fishing. The work environment varies between outdoor work in sometimes tough weather conditions and administrative tasks at the office. Travel along the coast or to inland waters is often required, demanding flexibility and good physical condition.

Salary development over time

The salary for a fisheries inspector has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,100 SEK per month, increasing to 37 200 SEK in 2023, representing about a 3% increase. In 2024, the average salary has reached 38 900 SEK, which is nearly a 5% increase compared to the previous year. This salary trend reflects increased focus on sustainability and control issues within the fishing industry, as well as a growing need for specialized staff with the right skills. Despite improvements, differences between genders and regions remain, influenced by factors such as experience, education level, and employment type.

Fisheries inspector salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 234 SEK
• Men (average): 41 500 SEK
• Women (average): 38 000 SEK
• Women’s share of men’s salary: 92%
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on geographic area and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a fisheries inspector, a post-secondary education in biology, environmental science, social sciences, or related fields is generally required. Many employers also seek specific courses in environmental law or fisheries legislation, as well as experience in environmental monitoring or control work. Practical skills and the ability to handle boats and technical equipment are also advantageous.

• Post-secondary education: Environmental science, biology, or social sciences (minimum 3 years)
• Special courses: Fisheries legislation, environmental law
• Internship/trainee: Practical experience in environmental monitoring or control work is highly valued
• Boat and technical skills: Ability to handle boats and technical equipment is often required
• Prerequisites: Approved high school education, preferably with a science focus

Common benefits and compensations

Fisheries inspectors are often employed by government agencies and typically receive collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and extra vacation days. In addition to base salary, allowances for travel and compensation for inconvenient working hours may apply during trips or outside regular hours. Access to work clothing, technical equipment, and sometimes company cars is common.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a fisheries inspector is generally moderate, but the job market is limited as the number of positions is relatively small. According to the Employment Service forecast, job opportunities are medium-sized nationwide, but demand is expected to decline over the next five years. This trend is driven mainly by technological development and automation, which can streamline control work but also reduce the need for personnel. The profession also requires ongoing training and adaptation to new regulations, which can be challenging for those wanting to stay current in the job market.

Tips for those who want to become a fisheries inspector

To succeed as a fisheries inspector, it’s good to combine accuracy with a genuine interest in nature and the environment. Analytical skills facilitate interpretation of regulations and assessment of catch reports, while good communication skills are crucial when meeting fishers and colleagues. Flexibility and perseverance are important qualities since tasks often involve travel, outdoor work, and varying working hours. Being solution-oriented helps in unexpected field situations, and a willingness to continuously further educate oneself is an advantage as regulations evolve rapidly. Practical experience in environmental monitoring or nature-related professions increases chances of employment and provides a solid foundation for future development within the profession.

Key facts about fisheries inspectors

• Educational level: Post-secondary education, at least 3 years
• Work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office work
• Typical employer: Government agencies
• Job opportunities: Medium-sized, 758 available jobs within the profession
• Future prospects: Decreasing demand over 5 years

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles such as senior fisheries inspector, trainer within the agency, or case officer responsible for policy and regulation development. Some choose to broaden their skills into other environmental oversight areas or move into leadership positions. According to the Employment Service, the job market is balanced but with medium opportunities for employment, though the forecast indicates decreasing demand in the coming years due to increased automation and digitalization of control work. For those who are flexible and willing to further educate themselves, there are still good prospects for development in related fields such as environmental protection, nature conservation, or other public oversight roles.

Frequently asked questions about fisheries inspectors

• What is the average salary of a fisheries inspector?
  - A fisheries inspector has an average salary of 38 900 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a fisheries inspector?
  - A post-secondary education in environmental science, biology, or social sciences is required, often at least 3 years.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK and the lowest 34,000 SEK per month.
• What does the future look like for fisheries inspectors?
  - Demand is expected to decrease slightly over the next five years according to the Employment Service forecast.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, communication skills, and an interest in environmental issues are central qualities.
• Where are the jobs located?
  - Most positions are with government agencies and regional inspection units, especially along the coast and larger lakes.