Fisheries management consultant

What does a fishery conservation consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A fishery conservation consultant works to preserve, develop, and manage fish populations and water environments in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Tasks include planning and implementing fish conservation measures, collecting and analyzing biological data, advising landowners and authorities, as well as educational efforts for the public and stakeholders. The consultant may also be responsible for project management, applying for grants, and coordinating collaboration projects among different actors. The work environment is diverse, combining fieldwork outdoors with administrative and analytical tasks in an office. Periodically, the work can be physically demanding and involve working under various weather conditions.

Salary development over time

The profession of fishery conservation consultant has shown a steady increase in salary in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 45 200 SEK, representing an increase of about 12%. In 2024, the salary continued upward to 45 700 SEK, an increase of just over 1% compared to the previous year. The significant increase between 2022 and 2023 can be linked to increased demand for specialist skills in water management and environmental issues, as well as a general focus on sustainable development within the natural resource sector. After 2023, the salary growth has stabilized, indicating that the industry may have leveled off salary-wise after previous increases. Salary development is also influenced by factors such as education level, employment type, and regional demand.

Fishery conservation consultant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 49,300 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage: 275 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (85% of men's salary)
• Men: 48 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Limited data available, but variations may occur depending on county and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a fishery conservation consultant, a university degree in biology, ecology, or similar natural sciences is usually required. Practical experience from fieldwork and project management is advantageous. Some employers also seek specialized knowledge in fish biology, environmental legislation, and GIS technology. Opportunities exist to supplement education with certificates or courses to strengthen one's profile.

• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or equivalent (3 years)
• Specialized courses in limnology, fish biology, or water management
• Internships or trainee positions with authorities, county administrative boards, or consulting firms
• Knowledge of GIS and data collection techniques
• Recommended: Engagement in voluntary fish conservation projects during studies

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for fishery conservation consultants include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work for administrative tasks. Fieldwork is sometimes compensated with per diems and extra pay for unsocial hours. Some employers also offer further training, professional development, company cars, or work tools adapted for environmental work.

Competitions and challenges

The profession of fishery conservation consultant is characterized by a relatively limited job market, where competition for advertised positions can sometimes be high. The number of available jobs within the broader category of specialists and advisors in agriculture, etc., amounts to 360, but the exact number directly related to fishery conservation is difficult to determine as the profession is part of a broader category. Limited number of employers, mainly authorities and consulting firms, means that geographical mobility is often an advantage. Challenges in the profession are also linked to project funding, political priorities, and changing environmental requirements, which can affect tasks and employment forms.

Tips for those who want to become a fishery conservation consultant

To succeed as a fishery conservation consultant, it’s good to be both analytical and engaged in environmental issues. A curious and persistent personality facilitates handling long-term projects and field studies that require patience and precision. It’s recommended to actively seek internships or volunteer assignments to build experience and networks in the industry, while also deepening knowledge of current environmental laws and technical tools like GIS. Good communication skills are important for collaborating with stakeholders and presenting results pedagogically. Flexibility and the ability to work independently are also highly valuable, as tasks are often varied and may involve periods of solitary fieldwork.

Key facts about Fishery Conservation Consultant

• Education level: Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or equivalent
• Work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office tasks
• Work setting: Most common in authorities, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations
• Demand: 360 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Water management, fish biology, project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a fishery conservation consultant, there are opportunities to take greater responsibility as project managers, water environment specialists, or advisors focusing on strategic planning. Further education can lead to roles in research, environmental consulting, or managerial positions within authorities. According to forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service, it’s difficult to give an exact assessment for the profession due to limited data, but the overall development within natural resource management and the environment indicates continued demand for specialist expertise. Those who are flexible and willing to work in different parts of the country have good opportunities for development and advancement.

Frequently asked questions about Fishery Conservation Consultant

• What is the average salary of a Fishery Conservation Consultant?
  - A fishery conservation consultant has an average monthly salary of 45 700 SEK.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 48 700 SEK, while women earn 41 300 SEK, which corresponds to 85% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a fishery conservation consultant?
  - Usually, a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or similar natural sciences is required.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Regional differences may occur depending on employer and county, but detailed statistics are lacking.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Career paths include project management, specialist roles, and managerial positions within environmental and natural resource management.
• How many job openings are there?
  - There are 360 available jobs within the profession, but the exact number of direct fishery conservation positions varies.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a fishery conservation consultant?
  - The highest salary is 49,300 SEK and the lowest 34,400 SEK, depending on gender, education, and employment type.