Environmental assistant, waste management

What does an environmental assistant in waste management do? – Tasks and work environment

Environmental assistants in waste management support and ensure efficient waste handling at workplaces, municipalities, or private companies. Typical tasks include sorting, weighing, and documenting waste, advising colleagues on proper procedures, and quality checks of sorting routines. The role may also involve practical work in the field, such as at recycling centers, as well as administrative tasks like reporting and environmental goal follow-up. The work environment varies but often involves physically active work both indoors and outdoors, where safety and accuracy are crucial.

Salary development over time

The salary for an environmental assistant in waste management has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,100 SEK per month, rising to 32 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 32 700 SEK, representing an increase of about 8.6% over the period. This positive trend reflects a growing demand for skills in waste management and environmental issues, as well as a clearer focus on sustainability in both private and public sectors. Salary variation exists depending on education level, sector, and experience, but overall wages have moved upward due to market needs and increased qualification requirements.

Environmental assistant in waste management salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 35,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 196 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 32 800 SEK, women 31 900 SEK (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Available salary data shows some variation between regions, but no dramatic differences.

Education and qualifications

To work as an environmental assistant in waste management, a high school education is usually required, preferably with a focus on environment, technology, or science. Many employers also seek courses in environmental and waste management, along with practical experience. Internships or trainee positions are common entry points, and there are opportunities for further training or certifications in areas like hazardous waste or quality assurance.

• High school education: Focus on environment, technology, or science recommended
• Professional courses/certifications: Examples include environmental technology or waste management
• Internship/trainee: Practical experience at recycling centers or similar is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Often B driver's license and good physical condition
• Further education: Opportunities for specialization via YH-education or online courses

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for environmental assistants in waste management include wellness allowances, work clothing, opportunities for skill development, and sometimes extra vacation days. In some cases, bonuses related to environmental targets or safety work are offered, as well as flexible hours or shortened workweeks depending on the employer.

Competition and challenges

The profession as an environmental assistant in waste management features relatively good employment opportunities, but the job market is characterized by a paradoxical situation. While recruitment difficulties are reported, there is also high turnover, part-time work, and some unemployment within the group. Challenges often include meeting high safety standards, physical endurance, and quickly adapting to new routines. Success requires good teamwork and the ability to work independently, as tasks can vary greatly from day to day.

Tips for those wanting to become an environmental assistant in waste management

To succeed as an environmental assistant in waste management, it is good to have good physical fitness and be prepared for active work with both practical and administrative elements. Precision is crucial, especially in sorting and handling different waste types, so practicing structured work during education can be beneficial. A responsive and communicative attitude facilitates cooperation with colleagues and customers, and showing engagement in environmental issues is a plus. Flexibility is important as tasks may vary across workplaces and seasons. Taking initiative for further education or internships increases chances of employment. Finally, a B driver's license can be a decisive merit, as many employers require it for the position.

Key facts about environmental assistants in waste management

• Education level: High school education with an environmental focus recommended
• Work environment: Physically active work, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Employment Service
• Available jobs: 123 positions in Sweden within the profession
• Special skills: Handling hazardous waste and quality assurance can be advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an environmental assistant in waste management, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as supervisor, environmental coordinator, or trainer in waste management. Some choose to further their education in environmental technology or environmental inspector roles. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, employment opportunities remain large, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over five years. However, recruitment issues are reported, meaning competent and committed environmental assistants have good chances of employment and career development within the profession.

Common questions about environmental assistants in waste management

• What does an environmental assistant in waste management earn?
  - The average salary is 32 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 196 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn on average 32 800 SEK, women 31 900 SEK, which means women earn approximately 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required?
  - High school education, preferably with a focus on environment or technology, along with relevant courses and practical experience is recommended.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service assesses the employment opportunities as high, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What tasks does an environmental assistant in waste management perform?
  - Sorting, documentation, advising colleagues on proper handling, and quality control of waste, often combined with practical and administrative work.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - Highest salary: 35,000 SEK (female, public sector, postgraduate education). Lowest salary: 27,700 SEK (female, private sector worker, pre-secondary education).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Some variation exists, but generally the differences between regions are relatively small.