Environmental auditor

What does an Environmental Auditor do? – tasks and work environment

An Environmental Auditor works to review and ensure that companies, organizations, and authorities comply with applicable environmental laws and internal environmental policies. Tasks include auditing environmental management systems, collecting and analyzing environmental data, and advising on environmental improvement measures. Environmental Auditors often conduct site visits, interview staff, and review documentation to evaluate the organization’s environmental performance. The work is primarily office-based but also involves travel to various facilities and operations in both private and public sectors. The role requires both analytical skills and good communication abilities, as results are often presented in reports and oral presentations to management teams and external stakeholders.

Salary development over time

The salary for Environmental Auditors has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased to 47 200 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 49 400 SEK per month. This represents a total increase of about 15% over three years, which is well above the average for similar specialist professions. The salary growth is partly explained by increased demand for environmental expertise as legislation and sustainability requirements have become more comprehensive, and more companies and public actors invest in certified environmental management systems. Meanwhile, competition remains balanced, so the positive salary trend may level off as the market saturates.

Environmental Auditor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 297 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 97% of men's salary (48 700 SEK vs 50 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on employment sector and region, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as an Environmental Auditor, a university-level education in natural sciences or engineering is usually required, often with specialization in environmental science, environmental engineering, or sustainable development. Many employers also value additional courses in environmental management, environmental law, and auditing techniques. Certification according to international standards such as ISO 14001 is advantageous and sometimes mandatory. Practical experience in environmental work or environmental management increases employability, as do good skills in Swedish and English.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree (3 years) in environmental science, environmental engineering, or similar
• Certifications: ISO 14001 auditor, environmental management systems
• Internship: Recommended during or after studies
• Prerequisites: Basic natural science subjects at upper secondary level
• Courses: Environmental law, auditing techniques, management systems, sustainable development

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental Auditors are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Other common compensations include skills development through courses and conferences, as well as insurance and extra vacation days. In the private sector, bonus programs may also be available, especially at larger consulting firms.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Environmental Auditor is considered balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates. Challenges in the profession include keeping up-to-date with rapidly changing environmental laws and standards, as well as handling complex audits in organizations with varying environmental impacts. The work can be intense during audit periods and requires great precision and the ability to communicate results effectively. Additionally, high demands are placed on integrity, as audits can sometimes lead to conflicts among stakeholders. Continuous training and peer exchange are important to meet these challenges.

Tips for those who want to become an Environmental Auditor

To succeed as an Environmental Auditor, it is good to combine analytical skills with a structured approach and strong communication abilities. The first step is to acquire a solid education in environmental science or environmental engineering and to seek internships early to gain insight into the profession. Building a network with experienced auditors and participating in industry meetings is also valuable, as teamwork and trust-building are key qualities. Staying updated on legislation and new environmental standards demonstrates commitment and long-term thinking, which employers appreciate. Furthermore, good verbal and written communication skills are essential when presenting audit results to different audiences. Curiosity and a genuine interest in sustainability issues make the work meaningful and rewarding over time.

Key facts about Environmental Auditors

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in environmental science or environmental engineering
• Work environment: Office-based work with travel to organizations
• Typical employment: Permanent employment, consulting assignments also common
• Demand: 143 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Environmental legislation, auditing techniques, ISO 14001

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as an Environmental Auditor, opportunities open to advance to senior auditor, environmental consultant, environmental manager, or sustainability specialist. Many also choose to work internationally or for larger consulting firms with broader responsibilities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities for specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is balanced nationally, providing good chances for those with the right education and experience. Digitalization and increased requirements for sustainability reporting may, in the long term, create new niches and specialist roles within the field.

Frequently asked questions about Environmental Auditors

• What does an Environmental Auditor earn?
  - An Environmental Auditor has an average salary of 49 400 SEK per month. The lowest salary is 38,100 SEK and the highest is 55,800 SEK.
• What education is required to become an Environmental Auditor?
  - Typically, a bachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or similar, along with certification in environmental management.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market like for Environmental Auditors?
  - The job market is balanced with 143 available jobs within the profession according to recent data.
• What are the tasks of an Environmental Auditor?
  - Environmental Auditors review environmental practices, follow up on environmental management systems, and report to management and authorities.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, precision, communication skills, and integrity are central qualities in the profession.
• Which sector offers the highest salary for Environmental Auditors?
  - The private sector, especially for privately employed professionals with post-secondary education, offers the highest salaries.