Nature conservation engineer

What does a nature conservation engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A nature conservation engineer works to protect, preserve, and develop natural environments and ecosystems. Typical tasks include inventorying species and habitats, conducting environmental assessments, developing action plans, and advising authorities, companies, and the public on legislation and environmental protection. The work environment varies between fieldwork in forests, land, wetlands, and watercourses, and office work where reports and investigations are compiled. Collaboration with other specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology is common, and work can be within the public sector, consulting firms, or private companies.

Salary development over time

The salary level for nature conservation engineers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased to 47 200 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded average salary for 2024 is 49 400 SEK per month. This represents a total increase of approximately 15% over the three-year period. The salary development reflects both a growing demand for qualified environmental specialists and a general salary increase within technical and scientific professions. Although supply and demand on the job market have been relatively balanced, specialized skills and experience have become increasingly important, positively impacting wages. The largest salary increases have been seen among private sector employees and those with shorter post-secondary education, especially among men.

Nature conservation engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 55,800 SEK/month (male, private employee, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 297 SEK
• Women earn: 48 700 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 50 400 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a nature conservation engineer, a university degree is usually required in environmental science, biology, ecology, or environmental engineering. The educational path may vary depending on specialization, but a bachelor's degree is typically a basic requirement, sometimes complemented with advanced courses or a master's degree. Internships or trainee programs are common and valuable for gaining practical experience. Skills in GIS, environmental legislation, and project management are particularly meritorious.

• Bachelor's degree: Environmental science, biology, or ecology (3 years)
• Master's degree: Recommended for specialization (2 years)
• Internship: Common for gaining professional experience
• Courses/certifications: GIS, environmental law, project management
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school education

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for nature conservation engineers include wellness allowances, extra vacation days, options for remote work, and flexible working hours. Occupational pension and insurance are often standard, especially within the public sector. Fieldwork may sometimes include per diems and travel allowances.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a nature conservation engineer is relatively balanced, and the job market is considered to be in good equilibrium. The number of available jobs within the profession is moderate, meaning there are opportunities, but experience and specialized skills are often required to stand out in recruitment. The biggest challenges involve increasing demands for digital competence, especially in GIS and data analysis, as well as understanding environmental legislation. Fieldwork can sometimes be physically demanding and require high precision and teamwork skills.

Tips for those who want to become a nature conservation engineer

To succeed as a nature conservation engineer, it is good to combine analytical skills with a genuine interest in nature and environmental issues. Early internships provide valuable experience and networks, especially if you are proactive and curious. Good problem-solving skills are helpful when working with complex environmental challenges, while communication skills are essential for conveying results to colleagues and the public. For those who are organized and collaborative, there are opportunities to lead projects and develop specialist skills. Engagement and flexibility are highly appreciated, especially in roles where tasks vary between fieldwork and office work. Finally, continuous learning is important as legislation and technology are constantly evolving within the environmental field.

Key facts about Nature Conservation Engineer

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in environmental science or biology
• Work environment: Alternates between fieldwork and office
• Job market: 143 available jobs nationally within the profession
• Demand: Moderate, forecast unchanged over the next 5 years
• Special skills: GIS, environmental law, project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a nature conservation engineer, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, environmental specialist, or investigator within larger organizations. Specialization in areas like biodiversity, water management, or environmental law increases chances for more qualified assignments and higher wages. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for specialists in environmental protection and environmental technology is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a continued balanced job market. The number of available jobs within the profession is moderate, and career paths exist within public administration, consulting firms, and private actors. Opportunities to work internationally or in research are also good for those wishing to further develop their skills.

Frequently asked questions about nature conservation engineers

• What is the salary of a nature conservation engineer?
  - The average salary is 49 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and educational level.
• What education is required to become a nature conservation engineer?
  - Typically, a university degree is required, at least a bachelor's in environmental science, biology, or related fields.
• What is the job market like for nature conservation engineers?
  - The job market is balanced with approximately 143 available positions nationally.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 97% of what men do in this profession.
• What tasks does a nature conservation engineer perform?
  - Tasks include inventorying, environmental assessment, advising, reporting, and project management within nature conservation.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, extra vacation days, occupational pension, and options for remote work.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The forecast is unchanged, with moderate opportunities for employment over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.