- Salary statistics
- Geochemist
Geochemist
37 900 - 59 300 kr / month
Women earn 94% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
Salary progression Geochemist
What does a geochemist do? – Tasks and work environment
A geochemist works with analyzing and interpreting the Earth's chemical composition. Tasks often include sampling soil, water, and minerals, laboratory analyses, and data interpretation to understand geological processes. Geochemists contribute to environmental monitoring, resource exploration, and research on Earth's development. The work environment is varied and can include fieldwork in challenging terrain and advanced laboratory analyses, often in collaboration with other specialists in science and technology.
Salary development over time
The salary development for geochemists has been steadily positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,200 SEK per month, increasing to 46 400 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 47,800 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 8.1% over three years. This salary increase reflects a continued demand for specialist competence in geochemistry, especially related to environmental issues and resource exploration. The relatively steady salary growth indicates a stable job market, where advanced education and experience are often rewarded. Salary development is also influenced by the employer's sector, geographic location, and the individual's experience and education level.
Geochemist salary – a comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 47,800 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 37,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
- Highest salary: 59,300 SEK/month (male, private sector worker, data unavailable)
- Hourly wage: 287 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender differences: Men: 48 800 SEK, Women: 45 900 SEK (women earn 94% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable
Education and qualifications
To work as a geochemist, a higher education in science is usually required, often with a focus on chemistry, geoscience, or environmental science. Many employers require a master's degree and value practical experience from laboratory work or field studies. Specialized courses and certifications can be advantageous depending on the area of work and employer.
- Formal education: Bachelor's degree (3 years) or master's degree (5 years) in chemistry, geoscience, or related fields
- Internships or thesis work: Often required to include field studies or laboratory practice during studies
- Certifications: Meritorious for certain types of environmental or quality work
- Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary education is recommended
- Tips for choosing: Specialization in environmental geochemistry or mineralogy can increase employability
Geochemists often work interdisciplinary and collaborate with experts in biology, environment, and technology. Those who enjoy problem-solving and connecting different knowledge areas may find the profession particularly stimulating.
Common benefits and compensations
Common benefits for geochemists include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Many also offer professional development, access to specialized equipment, and allowances for fieldwork or travel. Some workplaces have collective agreements that include extra vacation or health insurance.
Competition and challenges
Competition for positions as a geochemist can vary depending on region and labor market development. Since the profession requires high specialization and advanced education, there are often relatively few applicants for advertised positions, but the number of job openings is also limited. A challenge is that the job market is affected by economic cycles and demand within the mining, environmental, and energy sectors. Technological development demands increased digital skills and the ability to work with advanced analytical tools. For those wishing to work internationally, language skills and experience from multinational projects can be crucial.
Tips for aspiring geochemists
To succeed as a geochemist, it is beneficial to have curiosity about scientific relationships and an analytical mind, which facilitates laboratory work and data interpretation. Being meticulous is an advantage when handling sampling and analyzing complex data, while communication skills are important for collaborating with colleagues from different disciplines. Early internships and participation in research projects can increase employment opportunities. Flexibility and the ability to work independently and in teams are valued by employers. A willingness to continue education and stay updated on new methods is also central. Finally, having an interest in environmental and sustainability issues is advantageous, as these areas are becoming increasingly important within geochemistry.
Key facts about Geochemist
- Education level: Master’s degree in science is common
- Work environment: Combines laboratory work and field studies
- Typical employment: Full-time, often project-based work
- Demand: 143 job openings in May 2024
- Special skills: Advanced data analysis and environmental geochemistry
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a geochemist can advance to specialist roles in environmental analysis, exploration, or research. It is also common for experienced geochemists to move into project management or to become responsible for larger laboratories and field studies. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that, due to limited data, it is not possible to give a definitive outlook for the future of geochemists specifically. However, there are some job opportunities and development prospects within the profession, especially for those open to further education and specialization. Continued investments in environmental technology and sustainability may strengthen demand for geochemists in both private and public sectors in the future.
Common questions about Geochemist
- What is the average salary of a geochemist?
- A geochemist has an average salary of 47,800 SEK per month. - How do salary differences between men and women look?
- Men earn an average of 48 800 SEK, while women earn 45 900 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salaries. - What education is required to become a geochemist?
- A master's degree in chemistry, geoscience, or related fields is usually required. - What does the job market look like for geochemists?
- There are approximately 143 job openings in May 2024, but competition may vary. - What is the highest and lowest salary for a geochemist?
- The highest salary is 59,300 SEK and the lowest is 37,900 SEK per month. - Does a geochemist mostly work in laboratories or in the field?
- The profession often combines laboratory work with field studies depending on the project focus.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 96% | 41300 kr | 41800 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 47500 kr | 47900 kr |
| 45-54 | 51900 kr | 52200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 54000 kr | 54200 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 47400 kr | 47800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 38500 kr | 39200 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43300 kr | 43600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47700 kr | 47800 kr |
| 55-64 | 86% | 50900 kr | 50900 kr |
| 65-68 | 55500 kr | 55700 kr | |
| Snitt | 92% | 45700 kr | 45900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 38500 kr | 39200 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43300 kr | 43600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47700 kr | 47800 kr |
| 55-64 | 86% | 50900 kr | 50900 kr |
| 65-68 | 55500 kr | 55700 kr | |
| Snitt | 92% | 45700 kr | 45900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41800 kr | 42200 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 48800 kr | 49100 kr |
| 45-54 | 54100 kr | 54500 kr | |
| 55-64 | 56300 kr | 56700 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 48000 kr | 48400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41800 kr | 42200 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 48800 kr | 49100 kr |
| 45-54 | 54100 kr | 54500 kr | |
| 55-64 | 56300 kr | 56700 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 48000 kr | 48400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 96% | 41800 kr | 42400 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 47800 kr | 48300 kr |
| 45-54 | 53300 kr | 53800 kr | |
| 55-64 | 54900 kr | 55200 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 48300 kr | 48800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 39500 kr | 40900 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43500 kr | 43800 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47800 kr | 48000 kr |
| 55-64 | 86% | 53400 kr | 53500 kr |
| 65-68 | 57300 kr | 57500 kr | |
| Snitt | 92% | 47400 kr | 47800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 39500 kr | 40900 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43500 kr | 43800 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47800 kr | 48000 kr |
| 55-64 | 86% | 53400 kr | 53500 kr |
| 65-68 | 57300 kr | 57500 kr | |
| Snitt | 92% | 47400 kr | 47800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42100 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 48800 kr | 49200 kr |
| 45-54 | 55300 kr | 55900 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 48600 kr | 49000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42100 kr | 42500 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 48800 kr | 49200 kr |
| 45-54 | 55300 kr | 55900 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 48600 kr | 49000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 96% | 40300 kr | 40800 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 47100 kr | 47300 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 45600 kr | 45900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 37700 kr | 38000 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43100 kr | 43500 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47500 kr | 47500 kr |
| 55-64 | 86% | 46200 kr | 46200 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 43700 kr | 43900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 93% | 37700 kr | 38000 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43100 kr | 43500 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47500 kr | 47500 kr |
| 55-64 | 86% | 46200 kr | 46200 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 43700 kr | 43900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41100 kr | 41700 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 48700 kr | 48900 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 46600 kr | 47000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41100 kr | 41700 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 48700 kr | 48900 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 46600 kr | 47000 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Geochemist has the SSYK code 2114, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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