County forester

What does a länsjägmästare do? – tasks and work environment

A länsjägmästare primarily works to lead, plan, and develop the regional management of hunting and wildlife issues. The role often involves coordinating efforts between authorities, landowners, and interest organizations. Tasks include developing strategies for sustainable wildlife management, handling cases related to hunting and nature conservation, and serving as an expert in regional guidelines. The work environment is mainly office-based, but may also include field visits and participation in meetings in rural areas. The job requires good communication skills and strong administrative competence, as decision-making often occurs in consultation with multiple stakeholders.

Salary development over time

Länsjägmästare have experienced a stable salary development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 70,200 SEK per month, increasing to 73 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 72 900 SEK. This change represents an increase of approximately 3.8% between 2022 and 2024, with a marginal decrease from 2023 to 2024. The salary trend reflects changes in market demand and an increased focus on qualified leadership roles within the public sector. The relatively high salary level can partly be explained by the extensive requirements regarding education, experience, and leadership skills in the profession.

Comprehensive overview of länsjägmästare salaries

• Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (men): 50,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (women): 53,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary (men): 156,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary (women): 131,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 439 SEK
• Gender gap: Women earn on average 101% of what men do (73 200 SEK vs 72 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences are limited, but salaries can vary depending on employer and region.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a länsjägmästare generally involves higher education in forestry, biology, or similar natural resource subjects. The position often requires several years of experience in leadership roles within public administration, as well as in-depth knowledge of Swedish hunting legislation and wildlife management. Further education and specialization in areas such as environmental law, ecology, or urban planning can be advantageous. Practical experience in project management and collaboration between different societal actors is highly valued.

• Formal education: Jägmästarexamen or equivalent master's degree (4–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in wildlife management, environmental law, and nature conservation
• Internships: Recommended within agencies or nature conservation organizations
• Prerequisites: Scientific university entrance qualifications
• Tips: Early focus on leadership and public administration during studies increases chances

Common benefits and compensations

For a länsjägmästare, it is common to have occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for professional development. Other benefits may include flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and access to company cars for fieldwork. In some cases, options for remote work and subsidized lunches are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The profession of länsjägmästare is characterized by high competition, as the number of positions is limited and requirements for formal competence are high. Challenges include balancing various interests between hunting, nature conservation, and societal development. The role requires continuous updating on legislation and environmental changes, as well as the ability to lead complex projects. The position also involves significant responsibility regarding decision-making and communication with the public and interest groups. For those wishing to make a difference in Swedish nature management, this is a highly rewarding career path.

Tips for those who want to become a länsjägmästare

To succeed as a länsjägmästare, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills and an interest in both nature conservation and societal issues. Gaining early experience in project management and collaboration with various actors provides a valuable advantage, as does deepening knowledge of environmental legislation and wildlife management. Precision and a structured work approach are crucial, especially when handling complex cases. Good communication and diplomacy facilitate cooperation with landowners, authorities, and interest organizations. A willingness to take responsibility and develop activities at the regional level is central, as is staying updated on new research in conservation and hunting. Finally, perseverance and engagement are key qualities for thriving and succeeding in the role of länsjägmästare.

Key facts about länsjägmästare

• Education level: Jägmästarexamen or equivalent master's degree (4–5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of fieldwork
• Typical employment sector: Public sector, often at the County Administrative Board
• Demand: 175 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Wildlife management, environmental law, project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a länsjägmästare, opportunities open for advanced managerial roles within nature conservation agencies or larger regional development projects. Experience in the role can also lead to expert roles within national agencies such as the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency or advisory positions in international conservation organizations. The outlook is considered stable, with continued demand for qualified leaders in natural resource management. The Employment Service indicates that long-term competence supply is good, but the number of positions is limited, and recruitment mainly occurs upon retirement or organizational changes.

Frequently asked questions about länsjägmästare

• What does a länsjägmästare earn?
  - The average salary is 72 900 SEK per month, but it may vary depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a länsjägmästare?
  - Usually, a degree as a jägmästare or equivalent master's in natural resource management or biology is required.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for länsjägmästare?
  - Women earn on average 101% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What are the job responsibilities of a länsjägmästare?
  - The work involves leading and planning hunting and wildlife management, coordinating between authorities, and handling nature conservation cases.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salaries can vary depending on region and employer, but detailed statistics are limited.
• What are the future prospects for a länsjägmästare?
  - Demand is stable with approximately 175 job openings as of May 2024.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a länsjägmästare?
  - The highest salary is 156,100 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research education), and the lowest is 50,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education).