Environmental controller

What does an Environmental Controller do? – Tasks and work environment

An Environmental Controller works with analyzing, monitoring, and reporting environmental performance within companies, organizations, or authorities. Tasks include collecting and evaluating environmental data, developing and implementing environmental management systems, and ensuring compliance with applicable environmental laws and internal environmental goals. The role also involves supporting management with decision-making regarding sustainability strategies and communicating environmental efforts both internally and externally. The work environment is typically office-based, involving meetings, analyses, and report writing, but may also include site visits and collaboration with different departments or external actors.

Salary development over time

The salary development for Environmental Controllers has been clearly positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased to 47 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 49 400 SEK. This corresponds to an increase of about 15% over three years, which is higher than the average for many other specialist professions. The salary increases can be linked to the growing importance of environmental and sustainability issues in business, where demand for specialist skills has increased. Skill requirements have also risen, pushing wages upward, especially in the private sector and in metropolitan regions.

Environmental Controller salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (women, public sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (men, private sector, post-secondary education < 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 297 SEK/hour (average, 166 hours/month)
• Women: 48 700 SEK/month
• Men: 50 400 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 97% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions, but exact figures vary depending on employer and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as an Environmental Controller, a university degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, natural sciences, or economics with a focus on the environment is usually required. Many employers also seek experience in environmental management, reporting, or sustainability work. Completing certifications or courses in environmental management and environmental legislation is common. Practical experience through internships or trainee programs is often advantageous.

• Formal education: Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, natural sciences, or economics (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include ISO 14001, environmental auditing, or sustainability reporting
• Internships/experience: Internships or trainee programs in environmental work are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of environmental legislation and environmental management
• Tips for choosing: Combine environmental competence with economic or technical specialization for increased competitiveness

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental Controllers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Possibility for remote work exists, especially within larger organizations. Training grants and professional development are common, as well as extra vacation days and affordable health insurance. In some cases, bonus or performance-based pay is included.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Environmental Controller is considered moderate, where education level and specialized skills often determine employment opportunities. Since the profession is part of the group of specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology, the job market is balanced, with roughly as many applicants as available positions. Challenges include staying updated on changing environmental legislation and reporting requirements, managing complex environmental data, and translating this into practical measures. The role also requires the ability to work cross-functionally and to communicate environmental goals convincingly to various stakeholders.

Tips for those wishing to become an Environmental Controller

To succeed as an Environmental Controller, it is good to combine analytical skills with a strong interest in environmental and sustainability issues. A careful and structured work style facilitates data collection and analysis, while good collaboration skills are essential for driving projects with colleagues from different departments. Communication skills are important for presenting complex environmental results clearly to management and other staff. Being curious and keeping up-to-date with new legislation and trends in the environmental field also provides a competitive advantage. Finally, initiative and the ability to see the bigger picture in the organization's environmental work help create long-term value.

Key facts about the Environmental Controller

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in environmental or natural sciences
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Job market: Moderate opportunities, approximately 143 available jobs nationwide
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, often within larger companies or public sector
• Specialized knowledge: Environmental management, reporting, environmental legislation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role, an Environmental Controller can develop into more strategic positions such as sustainability manager, environmental strategist, or consultant responsible for larger projects and overarching environmental policies. According to the Swedish Employment Agency’s assessment for specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology, the job market is balanced, with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. Development opportunities are good for those combining environmental expertise with leadership or an economic background. Related professions include environmental engineer, sustainability controller, and environmental officer.

Frequently asked questions about the Environmental Controller

• What is the average salary of an Environmental Controller?
  - The average salary is 49 400 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Women earn 48 700 SEK, which is 97% of men's salary (50 400 SEK).
• What education is required to become an Environmental Controller?
  - A bachelor's or higher degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or a related field is recommended.
• What does the job market look like for Environmental Controllers?
  - Opportunities are considered moderate, with a balance between supply and demand.
• What are the most common job responsibilities?
  - Analysis of environmental data, reporting, implementation of environmental management systems, and advising management.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries are generally higher in metropolitan regions and within the private sector.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Environmental Controller?
  - The highest salary is 55,800 SEK and the lowest is 38,100 SEK per month.