Head of Environmental Protection

What does an Environmental Protection Manager do? – Job tasks and work environment

An Environmental Protection Manager leads and coordinates activities related to environmental protection at municipal, regional, or private levels. The scope includes supervision of environmental regulations, processing permits, strategic environmental work, and managing environmental inspectors. The role often involves close collaboration with other authorities, companies, and the public to ensure compliance with environmental legislation. The work environment is primarily office-based but also includes site visits, meetings, and sometimes urgent work under tight deadlines related to environmental issues.

Salary development over time

The salary for an Environmental Protection Manager has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,000 SEK per month, increasing to 39 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 41 000 SEK, representing an approximate 8% increase over three years. This development reflects a rising demand for qualified environmental expertise, while the market remains balanced between supply and demand. Salaries are also influenced by factors such as education level, work experience, and regional or sectoral differences, but overall, the profession has experienced steady and positive salary growth.

Environmental Protection Manager salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 48,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education)
• Highest salary for women: 48,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for women: 38,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 246 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 97% of what men do (40 700 SEK vs. 41 800 SEK/month)

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an Environmental Protection Manager typically involves higher education in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or engineering. Many also complete supplementary courses in law, environmental management, or occupational health and safety. Previous experience as an environmental and health inspector is common, as well as leadership experience and the ability to handle complex regulations and processes. Practical work and ongoing training are often important parts of skill development.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree (3 years) or master's degree (5 years) in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or engineering
• Supplementary courses: Environmental law, environmental management, occupational health and safety
• Internship: Field studies and practical experience in environmental administration
• Leadership training: Often a requirement for managerial roles
• Prerequisites: Prior experience as an environmental and health inspector is common

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, flexitime, extra vacation days, and remote work options are often offered. Occupational pension, professional development, and subsidized meals are also common. In some cases, allowances for on-call duty or special projects are included.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Environmental Protection Manager is moderate, characterized by a balance between supply and demand. The number of available jobs is relatively stable, with 143 reported nationwide. One of the main challenges is staying updated on constantly changing environmental laws and authority requirements. The role also involves managing complex permit processes and sometimes difficult trade-offs between environmental interests and business needs. The ability to lead and motivate staff in a changing environment is crucial for long-term success.

Tips for those aiming to become an Environmental Protection Manager

To succeed as an Environmental Protection Manager, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong commitment to environmental issues. Building broad competence in both natural sciences and law enhances the ability to interpret and apply environmental legislation effectively. Leadership skills are central, so focus on developing communication and motivational abilities. Experience in supervision and project management provides valuable insights, as does the ability to work systematically and make independent decisions. Networking within the environmental field helps stay informed about new trends and regulations. Demonstrating resilience and integrity is important for building trust internally and externally. Finally, being solution-oriented and flexible is an advantage, as tasks often vary and require quick adjustments.

Key facts about Environmental Protection Managers

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree or higher in environmental science or related fields
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Typical work schedule: Full-time, daytime, often in the public sector
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, balanced labor market
• Special skills: Environmental legislation, leadership, authority work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an Environmental Protection Manager, there are opportunities to advance to higher managerial roles within environmental administration, such as environmental or sustainability manager at regional or national levels. Other career paths include specialist roles in environmental law, consultancy, or strategic work on environmental policy within private companies. The employment agency's forecast indicates that demand for environmental and health inspectors is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, maintaining a balanced labor market. This means competition for managerial roles is stable, but experience and specialization can offer advantages in recruitment.

Frequently asked questions about Environmental Protection Managers

• What does an Environmental Protection Manager earn?
  - An Environmental Protection Manager has an average salary of 41 000 SEK/month, with variation depending on experience, sector, and region.
• What education is required to become an Environmental Protection Manager?
  - A bachelor's degree or higher in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or engineering, along with experience in environmental work, is usually required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 97% of men's salaries in the profession, with average salaries of 40 700 SEK for women and 41 800 SEK for men.
• What is the job market like for Environmental Protection Managers?
  - Opportunities are moderate, and the labor market is expected to be balanced in the coming years.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Environmental Protection Manager?
  - Responsibilities include leading environmental protection efforts, supervision, permit processing, and collaboration with other authorities.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexitime, extra vacation days, and occupational pension.
• How broad is the salary range within the profession?
  - The salary range is relatively broad, with the lowest at 34,000 SEK/month and the highest at 48,700 SEK/month.