Image that illustrates Predator inventory

Predator inventory

43 100 kr

Specialists and advisors in forestry

27 000 - 48 300 kr / month

Women earn 97% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Predator inventory

Average salary 43 100 kr
Males 43 400 kr
Females 42 200 kr

What does a predator investigator do? – Tasks and work environment

A predator investigator works to monitor and map the presence of large predators such as wolves, bears, lynxes, and wolverines in Sweden's nature. Tasks include collecting and analyzing tracks, scat, and other biological indicators to ensure an accurate picture of predator populations. Fieldwork is a central part of the job and is often performed in challenging terrain and varying weather conditions, requiring good physical condition and precision. The role also involves contact with landowners, hunters, and authorities, as well as reporting data to the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and other organizations. Documentation, photography, and sometimes DNA sampling are part of the routine work.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for predator investigators has shown a steady increase. In 2022, the average salary was 40,100 SEK per month, which increased to 41 600 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 43 100 SEK per month. This increase corresponds to a total growth of approximately 7.5% during the period. The salary development can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized nature conservation skills, as the profession requires advanced field knowledge and often higher education. Although the profession is relatively small, competition for qualified personnel has contributed to positive salary growth. Regional differences and the employer sector can also influence salary levels, with the public sector often offering slightly higher salaries for experienced investigators.

Predator investigator salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
  • Highest salary: 48,300 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate degree)
  • Hourly wage: 259 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Women earn 97 % of what men do (men: 43 400 SEK, women: 42 200 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on county and employer

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a predator investigator usually involves university studies in biology, ecology, or conservation, often with a focus on zoology or wildlife management. Practical field experience is highly meritorious and can sometimes outweigh formal education, especially when combined with specialized courses in inventory methods. Some employers also require certification in DNA sampling or track technology.

  • Bachelor's degree in biology or ecology (3 years)
  • Specialized courses in wildlife management, tracking, or conservation
  • Internships or fieldwork in conservation projects
  • DNA sampling certification may be requested
  • Basic driving license for off-road vehicles is often required

Predator investigators often work long periods in the field, sometimes during winter months and in remote areas. The role therefore requires good navigation skills and the ability to work independently, as much of the work takes place far from colleagues or offices.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, per diem allowances during fieldwork, compensation for unsociable hours, and access to specialized equipment and work clothing are often offered. Some employers also provide wellness contributions and opportunities for professional development in conservation and field methods.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as predator investigators is relatively high because the profession is small and the number of positions limited. Challenges include that assignments are often project-based or seasonal, which can create some employment insecurity. The tasks are physically demanding and require high stress tolerance, especially during intensive inventory periods. Technical tools and changing inventory methods require continuous training. It is also important to handle meetings with landowners and the public diplomatically, as predator issues are often sensitive.

Tips for aspiring predator investigators

To succeed as a predator investigator, it helps to have a strong connection to nature and genuine curiosity about wild animals. Analytical skills are important when interpreting tracks and biological data, and precision is crucial for reliable results. Endurance and patience are needed during long days in the field, especially in difficult weather conditions. Building a network within the conservation sector and participating in volunteer projects to gain practical experience is also beneficial. Good collaboration skills facilitate contact with colleagues, authorities, and landowners. Lastly, a flexible attitude and the ability to adapt to new inventory methods and technical tools are valued.

Key facts about predator investigators

  • Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 27,000–48,300 SEK/month
  • Educational level: Bachelor's degree in biology or ecology recommended
  • Work environment: Field-based with elements of solitary work and varying weather
  • Job openings within the profession: 360

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a predator investigator, opportunities open to specialize in conservation projects, take on roles as project managers or advisors in wildlife management. Some choose to pursue further education in research or work as consultants in environmental monitoring. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast exists for predator investigators due to limited data, but within the profession, there are approximately 360 job openings for specialists and advisors in forestry. The demand for expertise in conservation and environmental monitoring is expected to remain, even though the number of dedicated positions is limited.

Frequently asked questions about predator investigators

  • What does a predator investigator earn?
    - The average salary is 43 100 SEK per month, with a range between 27,000 and 48,300 SEK depending on experience and education.
  • What education is required to become a predator investigator?
    - Usually a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related fields along with practical field experience.
  • Are there many job openings for predator investigators?
    - There are approximately 360 job openings, but the number of specific predator investigator positions is limited.
  • What is the work environment like?
    - The work is field-based, often solitary, and in varying weather and terrain, requiring good physical condition.
  • What benefits are offered?
    - Common benefits include per diem allowances, wellness contributions, equipment, and compensation for unsociable hours.
  • Are there gender differences in salary?
    - Yes, women earn on average 97 % of what men do within the profession.
  • What career options are available after a few years?
    - You can specialize, become a project manager, advisor, or advance into research and consultancy.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Predator inventory is 48300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a postgraduate education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 45800 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Predator inventory is 27000 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 33000 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 97% 37000 kr 39600 kr
35-44 98% 41200 kr 44500 kr
45-54 41300 kr 43700 kr
55-64 42800 kr 46300 kr
Snitt 97% 40300 kr 43100 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Predator inventory has the SSYK code 2135, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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