Environmental engineer

What does an environmental engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

An environmental engineer works on identifying, analyzing, and addressing environmental issues across various organizations and sectors. Tasks often include environmental investigations, permit processes, environmental impact assessments, and developing sustainable technical solutions to reduce environmental impact. The environmental engineer collaborates with authorities, companies, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with laws and regulations, and to promote development towards a more sustainable society. The work environment varies between office work, field studies, and site visits at industries or construction sites, providing a dynamic and varied daily routine.

Salary development over time

Salary levels for environmental engineers have shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 kronor per month, increasing to 47 200 kronor in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 49 400 kronor, representing a total increase of nearly 15% over three years. This strong salary growth reflects increasing demand for environmental expertise and a growing focus on sustainability issues in both private and public sectors. The salary increase has been particularly noticeable among private sector employees, where competition for skilled labor is intense. The trend indicates that the role of an environmental engineer is becoming increasingly strategic and valued as expectations for environmental performance rise.

Environmental engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 49 400 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 kr/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 55,800 kr/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage: 297 kr
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (women: 48 700 kr, men: 50 400 kr)
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences are not available for this profession

Education and qualifications

To work as an environmental engineer, a university or master's degree in environmental engineering, environmental science, or similar scientific fields is usually required. The education combines technical knowledge with environmental law and urban planning, often including internships or project work in collaboration with industry or authorities. Some employers also require specific certifications or experience in particular environmental issues.

• Formal degree: University or master's degree in environmental engineering/science (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Environmental management systems (e.g., ISO 14001), environmental auditing
• Internship: Often mandatory during studies
• Prerequisites: Recommended to have a scientific high school education
• Tips for choosing: Select a program with strong links to working life or specialization in environmental technology

Common benefits and compensations

Environmental engineers often enjoy perks such as wellness allowances, generous vacation policies, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Pension schemes and professional development are common, especially within larger companies and the public sector. Fieldwork may also include per diems and travel allowances.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an environmental engineer is assessed as balanced nationally. This means there is neither a surplus nor a shortage of labor, providing stable conditions for job seekers. A challenge is that the labor market is broad, and demands for specialized knowledge are increasing, particularly in areas like environmental law, sustainability reporting, and advanced environmental technology. Regulations can also change rapidly, requiring continuous further education and monitoring of the industry to stay updated. At the same time, the profession is strongly influenced by societal development, where political decisions and new environmental goals impact the demand for expertise.

Tips for those aspiring to become an environmental engineer

To succeed as an environmental engineer, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in environmental and sustainability issues. Being meticulous and organized facilitates work with legislation and technical investigations. Communication skills are central – the ability to explain complex relationships to colleagues and external stakeholders is crucial. Flexibility and teamwork are important since the job often involves project work in interdisciplinary teams. An open mind for new methods and technologies is also advantageous, especially as environmental technology evolves rapidly. Building networks early during studies and gaining internships in various sectors increases opportunities to find your niche. Finally, demonstrating engagement and initiative, especially in roles like advisor or project leader, adds value.

Key facts about environmental engineers

• Educational level: University or master's degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Varied between office, field, and site visits
• Demand: Moderate, balanced labor market
• Typical work form: Project-based and interdisciplinary work
• Number of job openings in the profession: 143 (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an environmental engineer can advance to roles such as environmental strategist, project manager in environmental technology, or specialist in areas like environmental certification and sustainability reporting. Some choose to work as consultants or take on managerial positions within larger organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology, the job market is expected to remain stable with moderate opportunities and a balance between supply and demand. Over a five-year horizon, demand is expected to stay unchanged, offering good but not exceptional future prospects for the profession.

Common questions about environmental engineers

• What does an environmental engineer earn?
  - An environmental engineer has an average salary of 49 400 kronor per month.
• What are the gender differences in the profession?
  - Women earn approximately 97% of what men do. Women have an average of 48 700 kronor, men 50 400 kronor.
• What education is required to become an environmental engineer?
  - Typically, a university or master's degree in environmental engineering or environmental science.
• What is the job market like for environmental engineers?
  - The job market is balanced with moderate opportunities and is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Where are the highest salaries for environmental engineers?
  - The highest salaries are among private sector employees, especially men with post-secondary education.
• What are the tasks of an environmental engineer?
  - Common tasks include environmental investigations, permit processes, environmental impact assessments, and developing sustainable technical solutions.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are currently 143 job openings within the group of specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology.