Ornithologist

What does an ornithologist do? – Tasks and work environment

Ornithologists study birds, their behaviors, ecology, and populations. Tasks range from field studies and data collection in nature to laboratory work, analysis of collected material, and report writing. Many ornithologists work at universities, research institutes, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, contributing to environmental monitoring, conservation, and educational efforts. The work environment can vary greatly – some periods are spent outdoors in various weather conditions, while others involve analysis and administrative tasks in offices or laboratories.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary of an ornithologist has increased from 37,500 SEK in 2022 to 37 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a salary increase of about 4.5% over the period. The salary development has been stable and shows a slightly positive trend, reflecting continued demand for expertise in the field and some adjustment for inflation. The relatively modest increase can be explained by the fact that the profession belongs to a narrower specialization within biology, and many positions are within public or research-based sectors where salary budgets are often limited. At the same time, the trend indicates that employers increasingly value specialist competence and experience, especially as demands for environmental monitoring and biodiversity grow.

Ornithologist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 43,800 SEK/month (private sector male with doctoral degree)
• Highest salary for women: 42,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 236 SEK
• Women earn: 38 400 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 39 900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data currently unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an ornithologist, a university degree in biology or ecology is usually required, often with specialization in zoology or nature conservation. Many professionals also hold a doctoral degree, especially in research and academia. Practical experience in fieldwork and bird inventorying is highly meritorious and sometimes a requirement, along with good knowledge of statistics and data processing.

• Bachelor's degree in biology: 3 years
• Master's or doctoral studies: 2–5 additional years, often focusing on ecology or zoology
• Field practice: Practical experience from inventories and bird studies
• Courses in statistics and GIS: Common and often advantageous
• Involvement in non-profit projects: For example, bird associations or ringing programs

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for ornithologists include wellness allowances, opportunities for further training, flexible working hours, and sometimes access to research resources or field equipment. Some employers also offer extra vacation days and remote work options during periods dominated by analysis and writing. Travel for work, both nationally and internationally, may occur, with costs often covered by the employer.

Challenges and competition

The market for ornithologists is relatively limited in Sweden, as the profession belongs to a narrow specialization within natural sciences. Many positions are advertised within research projects, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, leading to strong competition for permanent employment. The biggest challenge is often securing long-term funding for projects or research positions, especially outside academia. However, opportunities exist for those who are flexible and willing to work internationally or in related fields such as conservation, environmental monitoring, and education. Technological developments increase demands for digital skills and expertise in data analysis and GIS. Success requires both deep subject knowledge and the ability to communicate research findings to the public and decision-makers.

Tips for aspiring ornithologists

To succeed as an ornithologist, it is beneficial to combine strong scientific curiosity with perseverance and practical problem-solving skills. Engaging early in bird associations and initiating field studies provide valuable practical experience and networks. An analytical mindset is important for interpreting data and drawing conclusions about changes in bird populations, while good teamwork skills facilitate work in projects and interdisciplinary teams. Developing digital skills, especially in statistics and GIS, increases opportunities for qualified assignments. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as the work environment often shifts between fieldwork, offices, and different geographic areas. Lastly, being communicative and able to convey research results to the public and policymakers is often a central part of the profession.

Key facts about Ornithologists

• Educational level: University degree, often master's or doctoral
• Typical work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office/laboratory
• Job market: Approximately 143 available positions within the profession
• Gender equality: Women earn 96% of men's salaries
• Field of work: Natural sciences, plant and animal biologists

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an ornithologist can advance to project manager, research coordinator, or specialist within conservation agencies. Other possible career paths include consultancy, international research projects, or educational roles at universities and colleges. The employment agency's forecast for the natural sciences field indicates insufficient data for a detailed assessment of future demand for ornithologists. However, the number of available positions suggests some mobility and opportunities, especially for those who are flexible and possess broad competence in biology, environmental monitoring, and data analysis. Specialization and international experience can enhance competitiveness in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about Ornithologists

• What is the average salary of an ornithologist?
  - An ornithologist has an average salary of 39 200 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an ornithologist?
  - Typically, a university degree in biology, often with a master's or doctoral qualification in zoology or ecology.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 400 SEK while men earn 39 900 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for ornithologists?
  - There are about 143 available jobs within the profession, but competition can be fierce as the field is narrow.
• What are the responsibilities of an ornithologist?
  - They work with field studies, data collection, analysis, reporting, and often environmental monitoring or conservation.
• What is the highest salary for an ornithologist?
  - The highest salary is 43,800 SEK and belongs to a male with a doctoral degree working as a private employee.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Analytical skills, endurance, flexibility, and good communication skills are especially important.