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

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

Environmental coordinators in environmental management and -governance work on developing, implementing, and following up on environmental management systems according to standards such as ISO 14001 and EMAS. Their tasks often include analyzing and improving organizational environmental performance, coordinating internal and external audits, and ensuring compliance with relevant environmental legislation. Documentation, reporting, and training colleagues are central parts of the role. Environmental coordinators can be found in both private and public sectors, and the work environment is usually office-based but may include site visits, especially at larger industries or projects.

Salary development over time

The profession has shown a clear increase in salary over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased to 47 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 400 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 15% over the period, with the strongest growth between 2022 and 2023. The salary increase can be linked to a growing demand for environmental expertise, especially in areas with stricter environmental requirements and increased sustainability reporting. The market has thus rewarded specialist knowledge as more companies and organizations integrate environmental management into their core processes.

Environmental coordinator – environmental management and -governance salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 297 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 97% of what men do (men: 50 400 SEK, women: 48 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but higher salaries occur in metropolitan regions and within the private sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as an environmental coordinator within environmental management and -governance, a relevant academic degree in environmental science, engineering, natural sciences, or similar is usually required. Many employers also seek experience with environmental management systems and knowledge of environmental legislation and sustainability work. To strengthen competence, it is common to supplement with certifications in ISO 14001 or EMAS.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree (3 years) or master's degree (5 years) in environmental science, engineering, or natural sciences
• Certifications: ISO 14001 Lead Auditor, EMAS registration
• Internship: Recommended during studies to gain practical experience in environmental work
• Prerequisites: Natural science or technical background, good knowledge of environmental legislation
• Courses and further education: Courses in environmental management, audits, and sustainable development can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental coordinators are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and opportunities for flexible working hours. Professional development, participation in conferences, and sometimes bonuses linked to project goals or certifications are also common.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an environmental coordinator within environmental management and -governance is considered moderate, with medium opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance; that is, the number of educated matches the number of available positions. A challenge is that employers often require experience with specific standards and systems, which can make it harder for recent graduates to establish themselves. At the same time, the role requires continuous updates on new laws and sustainability requirements. The ability to combine technical expertise with communication skills is crucial for success.

Tips for those who want to become an environmental coordinator within environmental management and -governance

To succeed as an environmental coordinator, it is beneficial to be analytical and to have a structured working approach, which facilitates the development and follow-up of management systems. A strong environmental engagement provides motivation in daily work, especially when it comes to motivating and training colleagues. The ability to communicate clearly and pedagogically is important, as the role often involves leading internal training and audits. Being flexible and quickly able to familiarize oneself with new regulations eases adaptation to changing legal requirements. Finally, collaboration skills are essential since the work involves close dialogue with many different departments and external actors.

Key facts about Environmental Coordinators, environmental management and -governance (ISO, EMAS)

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science/engineering
• Occupational group: Specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes site visits
• Demand: Moderate, 143 job openings in Sweden (May 2024)
• Typical employment: Full-time, often employed in both private and public sectors

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, environmental coordinators can advance to roles such as environmental manager, sustainability officer, or specialist within specific environmental areas. Other opportunities include project management or consultancy within environmental management and certification. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the opportunities for employment as specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology are medium, and demand is expected to be unchanged over five years. The job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, and digitalization along with increased sustainability requirements may create new career paths in the future. Related professions include environmental inspector, sustainability strategist, and environmental consultant.

Common questions about Environmental Coordinators, environmental management and -governance (ISO, EMAS)

• What does an environmental coordinator within environmental management and -governance earn?
  - The average salary is 49 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become an environmental coordinator?
  - Typically, a bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, engineering, or natural sciences is required.
• Are there gender pay gaps in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for environmental coordinators?
  - Opportunities for employment are moderate, and the outlook remains unchanged over a five-year period.
• What are the tasks of an environmental coordinator?
  - Implementing and following up on environmental management systems, coordinating audits, and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation days, and professional development are common benefits.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to environmental manager, sustainability officer, or consultant within environmental management.