Environmental officer, environmental management and control (ISO, EMAS)

What does an environmental officer within environmental management and governance (ISO, EMAS) do? – Tasks and work environment

Environmental officers specializing in environmental management and governance work on developing, implementing, and following up on environmental management systems according to international standards such as ISO 14001 and EMAS. The role includes analyzing organizational environmental impact, coordinating environmental efforts, designing routines and policies, and ensuring compliance with laws and standards. Continuous contact with authorities, internal and external stakeholders is common, as is training colleagues and reporting environmental performance. The work environment is mainly office-based but can also include site visits, audits, and field advisory work.

Salary development over time

The salary for environmental officers focusing on environmental management and governance has shown a clear increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month. This rose to 47 200 in 2023, representing an increase of about 9.8%. From 2023 to 2024, the average salary increased further to 49 400, an increase of just over 4.6%. Overall, this represents a salary increase of over 14% over the three-year period. This positive salary trend is linked to increased demand for environmental expertise, stricter legal requirements, and a growing focus on sustainability issues in both public and private sectors. Education level and specialized experience have also contributed to strengthening the profession’s salary position.

Environmental officers within environmental management – salary, statistics, and differences

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (male, private sector)
• Hourly wage (average): 297 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of men's salaries (48 700 SEK vs 50 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: (No specific data available)

Education and qualifications

To work as an environmental officer within environmental management and governance, a university or college degree is usually required in environmental science, environmental engineering, or a related field. Many employers also seek experience with environmental management systems, certifications, and relevant internships. Additional qualifications may include specialized courses, certificates, and in-depth knowledge of environmental legislation.

• Formal degree: Bachelor’s (3 years) or master’s in environmental science, environmental engineering, or similar
• Certifications: ISO 14001, EMAS, or equivalent courses
• Internship: Work experience through LIA or trainee programs
• Pre-requisites: Basic knowledge of environmental legislation and sustainability work
• Tips for choosing: Deepen your knowledge of environmental management and systems during studies

Common benefits and compensation

In addition to base salary, benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, skills development, extra vacation days, and pension schemes are often offered. Some employers may also offer remote work, subsidized lunches, or opportunities for further training in environmental management and sustainability governance.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an environmental officer within environmental management and governance is considered balanced, with a steady number of vacancies and medium opportunities for employment. Challenges in the profession include staying updated on rapidly changing environmental laws and certification requirements, as well as implementing organizational changes where environmental issues may be secondary. The ability to communicate and engage stakeholders is crucial. The role also demands analytical skills and practical problem-solving, especially when implementing new environmental management systems.

Tips for aspiring environmental officers within environmental management and governance

To succeed as an environmental officer within environmental management and governance, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in environmental issues. Attention to detail is important, as work often involves documentation and follow-up according to standards like ISO 14001. Good communication skills help in collaborating with colleagues and external parties, especially when introducing new routines. Being problem-solving and flexible is also valuable, as environmental legislation and requirements change rapidly. Continuing education and staying updated in environmental management increase chances of career development. Finally, being proactive and independent is advantageous, as the role often involves managing projects and processes on your own.

Key facts about environmental officers within environmental management and governance

• Education level: University or college degree, often at bachelor’s level
• Work environment: Mainly office-based but can include site visits and audits
• Demand: Medium opportunities, recruitment situation considered balanced
• Special skills: Certification in ISO 14001 or EMAS is often advantageous
• Available jobs: 143 current positions within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, an environmental officer within environmental management and governance can advance to roles such as environmental manager, sustainability officer, or consultant in environmental management. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like auditing, environmental law, or strategic sustainability work. The employment forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates that opportunities within the profession are medium and are expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is considered balanced, meaning a stable job market but competition for the most attractive positions. Sectors like energy, industry, and public administration are particularly relevant for further career development, and international opportunities exist for those seeking broader experience.

Frequently asked questions about environmental officers within environmental management and governance

• What does an environmental officer within environmental management and governance earn?
  - The average salary is 49 400 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, sector, and region.
• What education is required to become an environmental officer within environmental management?
  - Typically, a university or college degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or a related field is required.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the state of the job market?
  - The job market is considered balanced with medium opportunities for employment and 143 available positions in May 2024.
• What are the typical tasks of an environmental officer within environmental management?
  - Common tasks include implementing and following up on environmental management systems, analyzing environmental impact, and ensuring compliance with laws and standards.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 55,800 SEK (male, private sector), and the lowest is 38,100 SEK (female, public sector).
• Is certification needed to work with ISO 14001 or EMAS?
  - Certification is advantageous and sometimes a requirement, especially when working with audits or consulting in environmental management.