Environmental coordinator, public administration

What does an environmental coordinator do in public administration? – Tasks and work environment

An environmental coordinator in public administration is responsible for managing and coordinating environmental efforts within agencies, municipalities, and other public entities. Tasks include developing and implementing environmental strategies, monitoring environmental legislation, training colleagues, and ensuring the organization meets set environmental goals. Continuous dialogue with internal and external stakeholders is an important part of the work, as well as producing reports and analyzing environmental impacts of various activities. The work environment is often office-based but can also include site visits to construction sites or nature reserves.

Salary development over time

The profession has experienced a clear and positive salary progression in recent years. In 2022, the average salary for environmental coordinators in public administration was 43,000 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 47 200 SEK, corresponding to a growth of about 9.8%. In 2024, salaries continued to rise and now stand at 49 400 SEK, representing an additional increase of over 4.7% compared to the previous year. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified environmental expertise in the public sector and a growing focus on sustainability and environmental legislation. Salaries are also influenced by education level, specialization, and geographic location, but the overall trend is upward for the profession.

Environmental coordinator in public administration salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (female, government sector, high school education, up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education under 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 297 SEK
• Women earn: 48 700 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 50 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations are not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an environmental coordinator in public administration, a university degree in environmental science, natural sciences, or engineering is generally required. Many employers also value experience in project management, environmental legislation, and communication. Practical experience from environmental work or administration is often advantageous, and additional training in areas such as environmental management or sustainability can be beneficial.

• Higher education: Environmental science, natural sciences, or engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Environmental management systems (e.g., ISO 14001), project management
• Internships: Relevant work experience or trainee programs are recommended
• Courses: Environmental legislation, sustainable development, communication
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies

Common benefits and compensation

The role often offers benefits such as generous vacation policies, flexitime, wellness allowances, remote work options, and opportunities for professional development. Many public sector employers also provide pension contributions beyond statutory requirements and invest in training through courses and conferences.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an environmental coordinator in public administration is assessed as moderate, with a relatively balanced supply and demand. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, indicating a stable but not growing job market. Challenges in the profession include staying updated with changing environmental regulations and navigating complex decision-making processes. The ability to prioritize and communicate effectively is crucial for success. The increasing societal focus on sustainability and climate issues, however, continues to make expertise in the field highly sought after.

Tips for aspiring environmental coordinators in public administration

To succeed as an environmental coordinator in public administration, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong commitment to environmental issues. Developing good collaboration skills and the ability to communicate complex information clearly are essential, especially when motivating colleagues and decision-makers. It is also important to be organized and stay updated on current environmental laws and guidelines. Seeking internships or trainee programs within the public sector provides valuable experience and networking opportunities. Having some pedagogical ability also facilitates the role, as it often involves educating others. Lastly, curiosity and a willingness to continue learning are key qualities to meet future demands in the environmental field.

Key facts about environmental coordinators in public administration

• Education level: University degree in environmental science, natural sciences, or engineering
• Profession: Specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes site visits
• Demand: Moderate, stable forecast according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Number of vacancies: 143 within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an environmental coordinator in public administration, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as environmental strategist, sustainability manager, or project leader for larger environmental projects. Specializations within areas like environmental auditing, communication, or environmental law are also common. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's latest forecast, the job prospects are moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, providing a stable but not expanding job market for the profession. Developments in environmental legislation and increased focus on sustainability in society may create new career opportunities and demand for specialized expertise.

Common questions about environmental coordinators in public administration

• What does an environmental coordinator earn in public administration?
  - The average salary is 49 400 SEK per month. The lowest salary is 38,100 SEK and the highest salary is 55,800 SEK.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn an average of 48 700 SEK and men 50 400 SEK, which means women earn 97 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an environmental coordinator?
  - A university degree in environmental science, natural sciences, or engineering is most common, often supplemented with courses in environmental management and project control.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Data on regional variations are not available for this profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The job market is stable with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Generous vacation policies, flexitime, wellness allowances, remote work, and professional development are common benefits.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities to advance to roles such as environmental strategist, sustainability manager, or project leader within the environmental sector.