Director of Environmental Protection

What does an Environmental Director do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Environmental Director has overall responsibility for leading, developing, and monitoring environmental and sustainability efforts within an organization, often at municipal or regional level. The role involves designing strategies and policies for environmental protection, coordinating environmental projects, and ensuring compliance with national and international environmental regulations. The work also includes participating in management teams, driving change initiatives, and collaborating with authorities, businesses, and interest groups. The work environment is mostly office-based but can also include site visits, conferences, and representation at important societal forums.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the average salary for Environmental Directors has increased from 70,200 SEK in 2022 to 73 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 72 900 SEK in 2024. Between 2022 and 2023, there was a clear increase of about 5%, linked to increased demand for qualified environmental managers as sustainability issues gained greater importance. In 2024, a slight slowdown is observed with a minor decrease, likely due to market saturation and changing budget conditions in both public and private sectors. Overall, salary development has been positive, indicating that the market for Environmental Directors has stabilized at a high level, with salaries influenced by experience, education level, and sector.

Environmental Director salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 72 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 50,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 156,100 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Highest salary (female): 131,700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 53,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 439 SEK
• Women/men (average): 73 200 SEK/72 700 SEK
• Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 101%

Education and qualifications

To work as an Environmental Director, a higher university degree in environmental science, engineering, natural sciences, or social sciences is usually required, often at master's level. Many also have supplementary training in leadership, environmental law, or sustainability management. Practical experience in environmental work, administration, or project management is often a requirement to take on strategic responsibilities.

• Formal degree: Environmental science, engineering, biology, or social sciences (3–5 years)
• Leadership training: Courses/certifications in leadership and project management
• Practical experience: Several years of environmental work in public or private sectors
• Specialized courses: Environmental law, sustainability management, administrative knowledge
• Prerequisites: University eligibility, often in natural sciences or engineering

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental Directors are often offered attractive benefits beyond base salary, such as occupational pension, generous vacation policies, wellness contributions, and the possibility of remote work. Other common compensations can include training allowances, company cars or subsidies for travel, and opportunities to participate in international conferences and networks.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Environmental Director is intense, especially within the public sector where many experienced environmental managers seek leadership roles. Challenges often include balancing high expectations for sustainability results with limited financial resources and shifting political priorities. The role also requires continuous updating on new legislation and technological developments within the environmental field. The ability to lead complex projects and manage stakeholder conflicts is crucial, as is building effective collaborations across organizational boundaries.

Tips for those aspiring to become an Environmental Director

To succeed as an Environmental Director, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong commitment to sustainability issues. Building broad networks and actively seeking collaborations increases influence in large projects. Leadership skills are essential, so invest in developing both communication and organizational abilities through education and practical experience. Initiative and a strategic view on environmental issues are important qualities, as is patience to drive long-term change. Staying updated on current environmental trends and legislation is necessary to remain relevant in the job market. Good ability to handle complex stakeholder conflicts and communicate clearly with different audiences is also a great asset in the profession.

Key facts about Environmental Director

• Education level: University/college, often master's level
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes fieldwork and travel
• Common employer: Municipality, region, government agency
• Demand: 175 job openings in the field
• Special skills: Environmental law, sustainability management, leadership

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an Environmental Director, there are opportunities to advance to senior management roles in sustainability, such as sustainability manager, environmental strategist, or administrative manager. Some choose to move into advisory roles within agencies, international organizations, or consultancy firms. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the future outlook is stable, with ongoing demand for qualified environmental managers in both public and private sectors, especially as environmental and climate issues become more prominent. The demand for strategic competence and the ability to lead complex environmental projects is expected to remain high in the coming years.

Frequently asked questions about Environmental Director

• What does an Environmental Director earn?
  - The average salary for an Environmental Director is 72 900 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between genders?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 73 200 SEK while men earn 72 700 SEK, which means women have 101% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an Environmental Director?
  - Typically, a university degree in environmental science, engineering, or social sciences along with leadership experience.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is positive with high demand, especially in the public sector. Currently, there are 175 job openings.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 156,100 SEK and the lowest 50,000 SEK per month, depending on education, experience, and sector.
• What benefits are common for Environmental Directors?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness contributions, training, and remote work options.
• What personal qualities are important in the role?
  - Leadership ability, strategic thinking, communication skills, and commitment to sustainability are central qualities.