Environmental protection inspector

What does an environmental protection inspector do? – Tasks and work environment

Environmental protection inspectors monitor and ensure that companies, organizations, and private individuals comply with the Environmental Code and other environmental laws. Their tasks include inspections of operations, processing permit applications, providing advice and information to the public, and investigating environmental complaints. Reporting, participating in projects, and collaborating with other authorities are also common. The work environment is varied, combining office work with field visits, meaning inspectors move between workplaces and sites where environmental impact is assessed.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for environmental protection inspectors has been positive and stable. In 2022, the average salary was 38,000 SEK per month, increasing to 39 900 in 2023 and continuing up to 41 000 in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.9% over the period, equivalent to just over 1,000 SEK per year. This salary trend reflects increased awareness of environmental issues and a growing need for qualified inspectors, but competition for positions remains balanced. Salary increases can also be attributed to higher demands for education and specialization within the environmental field, as well as greater responsibilities. Despite the steady growth, the salary range remains relatively broad, indicating variations depending on sector, experience, and education level.

Environmental protection inspector salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 48,700 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education)
• Hourly wage: 246 SEK
• Women's average salary: 40 700 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 41 800 SEK/month
• Women's highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month
• Women's lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as an environmental protection inspector, a university degree in environmental and health protection, environmental science, or similar natural science fields is usually required. Many employers seek relevant degrees and sometimes experience from internships or trainee positions. Specialized courses and certifications in environmental law, inspection methodology, and environmental technology can be advantageous, especially for roles with greater responsibility or specific focus areas. Personal qualities such as thoroughness, analytical ability, and good communication skills are also important.

• University degree: Environmental and health protection programs (3–4 years)
• Additional courses: Environmental law, inspection methodology, environmental technology
• Internship/trainee: Recommended for increased employability
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary education
• Certifications: Possible in certain specialized areas

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for environmental protection inspectors include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and flexible working hours. Many employers also offer professional development, remote work options, and extra vacation days. In some cases, travel and work clothing allowances may also be provided, especially when work involves frequent field visits.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an environmental protection inspector is assessed as moderate, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. The recruitment situation is balanced, meaning the number of qualified candidates matches the current labor market needs. Challenges in the profession can include complex legislation, high documentation requirements, and maintaining impartiality in inspections. Changes in environmental legislation and societal development can quickly impact job tasks. Additionally, the ability to handle conflicts and communicate clearly with companies and individuals is often required.

Tips for those who want to become an environmental protection inspector

To succeed as an environmental protection inspector, it is good to combine curiosity with analytical skills, as the profession demands problem-solving and interpreting complex regulations. Developing communication skills is important, as inspectors often need to explain laws and decisions pedagogically. Thoroughness and integrity are key qualities when documenting inspections and making objective decisions. It is also wise to seek internships or summer jobs in the environmental field early on to build experience and networks. Specializing in areas such as environmental law or food inspection can increase employment chances. Ultimately, a genuine interest in environmental issues and a willingness to stay updated on new laws and guidelines are essential.

Key facts about environmental protection inspectors

• Average salary: 41 000 SEK/month
• Education level: University degree in environmental and health protection (3–4 years)
• Work environment: Combination of office and fieldwork
• Demand: Moderate, 143 job openings in Sweden
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 97% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, environmental protection inspectors can advance to specialist roles, such as in environmental strategy or environmental permitting, or take on coordinating responsibilities as team leaders or project managers. There are also opportunities to work with training, consultancy, or within authorities at regional or national levels. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for environmental and health protection inspectors is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced labor market between supply and demand. This means good chances of employment for those with the right education and experience, although competition for the most attractive positions can be high. Further education and specialization can also broaden career options within the environmental sector.

Frequently asked questions about environmental protection inspectors

• What is the average salary of an environmental protection inspector?
  - The average salary is 41 000 SEK/month.
• What does the salary range look like for environmental protection inspectors?
  - The lowest salary is 34,000 SEK, and the highest is 48,700 SEK per month.
• Are there differences in salary between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become an environmental protection inspector?
  - Usually, a university degree in environmental and health protection, environmental science, or similar fields is required.
• What are the future prospects for environmental protection inspectors?
  - The job market is balanced, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• How many job openings are currently available?
  - There are currently 143 job openings in the profession in Sweden.
• Where do environmental protection inspectors typically work?
  - The majority are employed by municipalities, but there are also positions within government agencies and private consulting firms.