- Salary statistics
- Marine Archaeologist salary
Marine Archaeologist salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
41 500 - 52 700 SEK / month
Women earn 96% of what men do.
Administration, ekonomi
Related tools
Salary progression Marine Archaeologist
What does a marine archaeologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A marine archaeologist works on investigating and documenting archaeological remains and objects beneath the water surface, such as shipwrecks, harbor structures, and prehistoric settlements. Tasks include diving, sampling, photogrammetry, as well as analysis and interpretation of finds to tell about human history in marine environments. Marine archaeologists often work in project teams with other specialists and use advanced technology such as sonar, underwater cameras, and GIS systems. The work environment is varied and can range from fieldwork in challenging water conditions to analysis work at offices or laboratories.
Salary development over time
Salaries for marine archaeologists have shown a positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 46 000 SEK in 2023 and reaching 46 700 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7% over three years, which is slightly higher than the average salary growth in many other humanities professions. Factors driving this increase include rising demand for specialist skills, technological development in the field, and growing interest in cultural heritage preservation linked to major infrastructure projects. Regional projects and government initiatives have also contributed to higher salary levels in certain areas.
Marine Archaeologist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 46 700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 41,100 SEK/month (men), 42,000 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (men), 50,700 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 277 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of men's salary (45 900 SEK vs 47 500 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on project scope and employer, but detailed statistics are lacking for specific regions.
Education and qualifications
To work as a marine archaeologist, a university degree in archaeology with a focus on marine archaeology or underwater archaeology is usually required. The education combines theoretical studies with practical components, where a diving certificate and experience with underwater work are often prerequisites. Fieldwork and internships are central to developing the skills needed in the profession.
- Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's degree in archaeology (3–5 years), preferably with a marine focus
- Diving certification: Usually PADI or equivalent, sometimes advanced diving courses
- Internships: Field internships or trainee positions at museums, universities, or government agencies
- Technical courses: Training in sonar, GIS, and underwater documentation is advantageous
- Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility and swimming proficiency
Many marine archaeologists have the opportunity to participate in international research projects, leading to exciting collaborations and exchanges across borders. It is common to work at sites of great historical significance, where new discoveries can alter perceptions of entire regions' pasts.
Common benefits and compensations
Marine archaeologists are often offered perks such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days during fieldwork, compensation for unsociable hours, and sometimes access to specialized equipment and training. Travel and per diems may be included for longer assignments, especially in international projects or remote locations.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a marine archaeologist is relatively high, as the number of qualified individuals exceeds available jobs in the field. Projects are often project-based and dependent on external funding, which can create employment uncertainties. Challenges also include difficult working conditions underwater and requirements for technical expertise in both archaeology and diving. However, there are opportunities for specialization and further training in areas such as digital documentation or marine environmental conservation, which can enhance employability.
Tips for aspiring marine archaeologists
To succeed as a marine archaeologist, it is beneficial to be both resilient and curious, as the job often involves long field days and unexpected challenges underwater. An analytical mind is important for interpreting finds and understanding historical contexts, while technical skills are needed to operate advanced equipment and diving gear. Building a network through volunteering, internships, or international collaborations provides valuable experience and can open doors to new projects. Good physical health facilitates demanding work conditions, and teamwork skills are essential since work is often conducted in teams. Continuously developing skills through courses and staying updated on new methods enhances chances of employment and career growth.
Key facts about Marine Archaeologists
- Educational level: Bachelor's or master's degree in archaeology (3–5 years)
- Work environment: Field-based, often underwater, with advanced technical equipment
- Typical employment: Project-based or permanent positions at government agencies/museums
- Demand: 758 available jobs nationwide
- Special skills: Diving and digital documentation
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a marine archaeologist can advance to project manager, specialist in marine documentation, or become a consultant for major infrastructure projects. Some pursue doctoral studies and work in academia, while others work on cultural heritage issues for government agencies or international organizations. The Employment Service's forecasts indicate stable demand, although competition for the most attractive positions remains high. Technological development and increased environmental requirements mean that specialists with experience in new documentation techniques and environmental analysis are becoming increasingly sought after.
Frequently asked questions about Marine Archaeology
- What does a Marine Archaeologist earn?
- The average salary is 46 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and employer. - How does one become a Marine Archaeologist?
- An academic degree in archaeology with a focus on marine archaeology and a diving certificate are usually required. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of men's salaries in the profession. - Which employers hire marine archaeologists?
- Common employers include museums, universities, government agencies, and consultancy firms within cultural heritage. - What are the future prospects?
- Demand is stable with 758 available jobs nationwide in the profession. - What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
- The highest salary is 52,100 SEK (men) and 50,700 SEK (women); the lowest salary is 41,100 SEK (men) and 42,000 SEK (women). - What personal qualities are important?
- Endurance, curiosity, analytical skills, and technical proficiency are highly valued.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 39100 kr | 39200 kr | |
| 35-44 | 103% | 46700 kr | 46800 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 48200 kr | 48200 kr |
| 55-64 | 91% | 48700 kr | 48700 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 46600 kr | 46700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 40200 kr | 40400 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47700 kr | 47800 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 50200 kr | 50200 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 50800 kr | 50800 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 53000 kr | 53000 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 48100 kr | 48200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 40200 kr | 40400 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47700 kr | 47800 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 50200 kr | 50200 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 50800 kr | 50800 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 53000 kr | 53000 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 48100 kr | 48200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 44800 kr | 44800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 44800 kr | 44800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 103% | 46000 kr | 46100 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 48700 kr | 48700 kr |
| 55-64 | 91% | 50900 kr | 50900 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 47500 kr | 47500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 39500 kr | 39600 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47500 kr | 47600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 50300 kr | 50400 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 51900 kr | 52000 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 54400 kr | 54400 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 48500 kr | 48500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 39500 kr | 39600 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47500 kr | 47600 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 50300 kr | 50400 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 51900 kr | 52000 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 54400 kr | 54400 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 48500 kr | 48500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 46400 kr | 46400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 46400 kr | 46400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 103% | 47200 kr | 47300 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 47600 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 91% | 46400 kr | 46400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 45800 kr | 45900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 40700 kr | 40900 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47800 kr | 47900 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 50000 kr | 50000 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 49800 kr | 49800 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 50600 kr | 50600 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 47900 kr | 47900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 103% | 40700 kr | 40900 kr |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47800 kr | 47900 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 50000 kr | 50000 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 49800 kr | 49800 kr |
| 65-68 | 93% | 50600 kr | 50600 kr |
| Snitt | 99% | 47900 kr | 47900 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 Marine Archaeologist has the SSYK code 2623, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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