Information assistant, environmental issues

What does an Environmental Information Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Environmental Information Assistant focusing on environmental issues primarily supports communication and information management within the environmental sector. Tasks often include collecting, processing, and disseminating information about environmental efforts, legislation, and sustainability initiatives to both internal and external audiences. The role also involves answering questions from the public, companies, and organizations, as well as participating in projects and campaigns related to environmental awareness. The work is typically performed in an office environment, often within public agencies, authorities, or larger companies, but may also occur in consulting firms. The position requires accuracy, good communication skills, and a broad understanding of environmental and sustainability issues.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for an Environmental Information Assistant has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,300 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 30 500 SEK in 2023, and further to 32 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 10.2% over three years, which can be considered a slightly faster development than many other similar administrative roles. The salary increase may partly be explained by increased demand for environmental expertise and a general trend toward higher wages within information and communication services. Additionally, employers in both the public and private sectors have shown growing interest in strengthening their environmental information efforts, contributing to upward pressure on salaries within the profession.

Environmental Information Assistant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,300 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, upper secondary education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 31 700 SEK, men 33 200 SEK – women earn 96% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Environmental Information Assistant, at least upper secondary education is typically required, often supplemented with post-secondary courses in environmental science, communication, or administration. Many employers value experience in information work, especially related to the environment, as well as good IT skills and the ability to work independently. Practical experience from similar roles or internships can be advantageous, as can education in environmental legislation or sustainable development.

• Upper secondary education: Social sciences or natural sciences, 3 years
• Post-secondary courses: Environmental science, communication, administration
• Internships or trainee positions: Meritorious in environmental information services
• Certifications: Courses in environmental legislation or sustainable development are positive
• IT skills: Good proficiency in Office suite and information systems is important

Common Benefits and Compensation

Environmental Information Assistants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexitime. Other common compensations include subsidized lunches, skills development, and remote work opportunities, especially within larger organizations and the public sector. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as an Environmental Information Assistant is moderate, with about 550 job openings in the profession according to the latest statistics. A challenge is that the tasks often require a combination of environmental knowledge and communicative skills, placing high demands on applicants. Additionally, the role can involve rapid changes in responsibilities and the need to stay updated on laws and regulations. Technological development and digitalization also mean that digital communication skills are becoming increasingly important. For those looking to stand out in the job market, having specialized knowledge in environmental information and experience with various communication channels is advantageous.

Tips for Aspiring Environmental Information Assistants

To succeed as an Environmental Information Assistant, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in the environment and sustainable development, as engagement often influences daily information work. Accuracy is a key trait, especially when handling and disseminating correct information. Being communicative facilitates contact with colleagues and the creation of material for different audiences. Flexibility is also valuable, as tasks can vary and require quick adjustments. Lastly, being service-minded is an advantage, as the role often involves answering questions and providing support to both internal and external parties.

Key Facts about Environmental Information Assistant

• Educational level: Upper secondary diploma, often with supplementary courses in environment and communication
• Work environment: Office-based, often in public sector or larger companies
• Work form: Full-time, sometimes remote work possibilities
• Demand: Moderate opportunities in the job market (about 550 job openings)
• Special skills: Environmental legislation, digital communication, information management

Career Paths and Future Prospects

After three to five years of experience, an Environmental Information Assistant has good opportunities to advance to more qualified roles, such as environmental communicator, project manager within sustainability communication, or specialist in environmental information. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that job opportunities within the profession, including customer service roles that involve information assistants, are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of labor. Those who acquire specialized skills in environmental communication and digital tools have particularly good prospects for development within the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions about Environmental Information Assistant

• What does an Environmental Information Assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 32 300 SEK per month, with variations between 30,300 SEK and 36,300 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 31 700 SEK and men 33 200 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required?
  - At least upper secondary education with supplementary courses in environmental science and communication is recommended, preferably with practical experience or internships in information work.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are approximately 550 job openings in the profession, and opportunities are considered moderate with a balanced recruitment situation.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for skills development.
• Can you work remotely?
  - In many cases, remote work is possible, especially within larger organizations and the public sector.
• What career paths are available after a few years?
  - With experience, one can advance to roles such as environmental communicator, project manager, or specialist in environmental information.