What does a nature conservation officer – administrator do? Tasks and work environment
A nature conservation officer with an administrative focus mainly works with planning, coordination, and follow-up of conservation efforts within authorities, municipalities, or organizations. Tasks may include developing and monitoring action plans for conservation projects, writing reports, handling permit cases, preparing decision documents, and collaborating with other actors such as landowners, researchers, and the public. Information work, such as educational initiatives or communication about conservation issues, is often included. The work is largely office-based but may involve site visits for inventories or follow-up of measures when needed. The role requires good skills in managing administrative systems, documentation, and project management in an environment where both independent work and teamwork are important.
Salary development over time
Conservation officers and administrators have experienced steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, which increased to 44 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has further increased to 46 500 SEK per month. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.6% over the period. The driving factors behind the salary development include increased demand for qualified conservation expertise as environmental and climate work have gained greater focus within the public sector and industry. At the same time, competition for experienced administrators in the broader urban planning field has pushed wages higher. Wage increases have been somewhat larger among men than women, which is reflected in the ongoing clear gender differences.
Nature conservation officer – administrator salary: complete overview
- Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, lower education)
- Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
- Hourly wage: 280 SEK/hour (hourly worker, average)
- Gender differences: Men 48 800 SEK, women 45 300 SEK (women earn 93% of men's salary)
Education and qualifications
To work as a conservation officer with an administrative focus, a university degree in biology, environmental science, conservation planning, or related fields is usually required. Many employers value additional training or experience in administration, project management, and public administration. Practical experience through internships, trainee programs, or summer jobs in conservation often provides an advantage. Some positions may also require specific certifications or advanced knowledge in areas such as GIS, environmental law, or report writing.
- University degree: Biology/conservation planning, 3–5 years
- Courses/certifications: Project management, GIS, environmental law
- Internships/trainee: Common and advantageous
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Tips for choosing: Combine natural sciences with administration for increased competitiveness
Working as a conservation officer or administrator often involves contact with many different actors – from authorities and landowners to NGOs and researchers. The key to success is therefore not only environmental knowledge but also the ability to network and build trust in complex projects.
Common benefits and compensations
Conservation officers and administrators are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, extra vacation days, and flexitime. Opportunities for professional development and participation in conferences are common, as well as some options for remote work. In some cases, subsidized lunches or travel allowances are provided.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a conservation officer or administrator is assessed as moderate, with a relatively balanced number of qualified applicants and available jobs. A challenge is that many employers seek both deep subject knowledge and experience in administration, which can make it difficult for recent graduates to enter the market. Tasks are often complex and require strategic thinking as well as detailed documentation. Digitalization and changing regulations also demand continuous skills development. Regional differences may occur, with larger job markets often offering more opportunities.
Tips for those aspiring to become conservation officers, administrators
To succeed as a conservation officer or administrator, it is good to combine analytical skills with a structured work approach and a strong sense of collaboration. Early internships or summer jobs in conservation management provide valuable experience and networks. The ability to communicate clearly in writing is important, as reporting and documentation are recurring tasks. An interest in digital tools, such as GIS or administrative systems, increases competitiveness. Being solution-oriented and flexible facilitates adapting when priorities change quickly in project work. Engagement in environmental issues combined with patience and thoroughness are qualities appreciated by employers. Finally, staying updated on new trends and regulations in the conservation sector is advantageous.
Key facts about conservation officers – administrators
- Education level: University degree in biology or environmental science (3–5 years)
- Work environment: Office-based with elements of fieldwork
- Typical work form: Public sector, project-based
- Demand: Moderate, with 758 job openings within the profession
- Gender differences: Women earn 93% of men's salaries
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the role of conservation officer or administrator, there may be opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, operations manager, or specialist in areas like environmental law, GIS, or conservation planning. Some progress to managerial roles within the public sector or work as consultants in environmental and conservation issues. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that opportunities within the planner and investigator group are assessed as moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation and unchanged demand over five years. Competition for more specialized roles may increase as more people train in the field and employers seek broader skill profiles.
Frequently asked questions about conservation officers – administrators
- What does a conservation officer, administrator earn?
- The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
- What education is required to become a conservation officer, administrator?
- Usually, a university degree in biology, environmental science, or related fields is required.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
- What are the future prospects?
- The demand is assessed as moderate, with unchanged opportunities over the next five years.
- What tasks does a conservation officer, administrator have?
- Tasks include project management, report writing, permit cases, and collaboration with various actors.
- How wide is the salary spread?
- The highest salary is 60,200 SEK and the lowest 30,200 SEK per month, depending on education, gender, and sector.
- What benefits are common?
- Common benefits include wellness allowances, occupational pension, extra vacation days, and flexitime.
