Forest consultant

What does a forestry consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A forestry consultant primarily works with advising, training, and supporting landowners, contractors, and other stakeholders in forestry. Tasks include providing guidance on sustainable forest management, conservation, forest care, and regulatory issues. Many forestry consultants also organize training sessions and information meetings, conduct inventories, and evaluate forest management measures. The work environment is varied, involving both fieldwork outdoors in forests and nature, as well as administrative tasks at the office. The role often involves extensive travel within the region or county, as contact with landowners and partners occurs both on-site and digitally.

Salary development over time

The salary development for forestry consultants has been steadily positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,100 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 41 600 SEK in 2023, representing a rise of approximately 3.7%. In 2024, the average salary continues to increase and is now 43 100 SEK, which is a further increase of 3.6% from the previous year. This salary trend reflects a continued demand for expertise in sustainable forestry and advising, while educational requirements and specialization within the profession have increased. The market's focus on climate adaptation and forest conservation has likely contributed to salary increases, although regional variations and employer types still influence salary levels.

Forestry consultant salary – comprehensive 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 (average): 259 SEK
• Gender difference: Women earn 97% of what men do (men 43 400 SEK, women 42 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Varies depending on employer and region

Education and qualifications

To work as a forestry consultant, a higher education in forestry or a related field is generally required. Most have an academic forestry degree, often complemented by courses in advising, environmental issues, or nature conservation. Practical experience in forest management and strong communication skills are important merits during recruitment. Depending on the employer, requirements for a driver's license and fieldwork experience may also apply.

• Formal degree: Forestry higher education (3–5 years, e.g., forestry engineer or forester)
• Certifications: Environment and conservation-oriented courses can be advantageous
• Internships: Longer internships or trainee programs are common during or after studies
• Prerequisites: Natural sciences or forestry high school education recommended
• Advice for choosing: Early contact with the industry through summer jobs or thesis projects provides valuable experience

Common benefits and compensations

Forestry consultants are often offered benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, company cars or mileage allowances for travel. Flexible working hours and opportunities for remote work are common, especially for administrative tasks. Further training and skills development in conservation, leadership, or digital tools are frequent, along with extra vacation days and overtime compensation when needed.

Competition and challenges

The job market for forestry consultants is relatively specialized, and the supply of positions can vary between regions and employers. According to recent data, there are about 360 job openings in the profession, but since the role is niche, relevant education and experience are often necessary to be competitive. Challenges include changing political guidelines, new environmental requirements, and the transition to more digitalized work methods. Those looking to establish themselves should stay updated on current regulations, have good collaboration skills, and be prepared to work independently and in teams.

Tips for those wanting to become a forestry consultant

To succeed as a forestry consultant, it is good to combine a genuine interest in nature and forests with analytical skills and good communication. Precision is important when advising landowners on complex regulations and measures, and initiative is required to plan field visits and projects independently. Being attentive and pedagogical facilitates cooperation with different stakeholders and makes it easier to tailor messages to the audience. An openness to new technology and digital tools is central as the industry develops. Finally, patience and perseverance are crucial, as long-term projects and change work are a natural part of the profession.

Key facts about Forestry Consultant

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Education level: Forestry higher education (3–5 years)
• Typical work environment: Combination of fieldwork and office
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 97% of men's salary
• Number of job openings: 360

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a forestry consultant, opportunities open for specialization in areas such as conservation, planning, or certification. Some advance to managerial roles, project management, or expert assignments within authorities, companies, or organizations. The outlook for the profession is difficult to predict, as the Employment Service does not provide exact estimates due to limited data, but the green transition and the need for sustainable management suggest continued demand for forestry expertise. The profession offers some mobility, and new opportunities may arise as environmental requirements and digitalization increase. Related roles include forest manager, environmental consultant, or conservation biologist.

Common questions about Forestry Consultant

• What is the average salary of a forestry consultant?
  - The average salary for a forestry consultant is 43 100 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 42 200 SEK and men 43 400 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a forestry consultant?
  - A higher forestry degree of 3–5 years, such as a forestry engineer or forester, is usually required.
• What does the job market look like for forestry consultants?
  - There are approximately 360 job openings in the profession, but competition can vary regionally.
• How wide is the salary range within the profession?
  - The lowest reported salary is 27,000 SEK and the highest 48,300 SEK per month.
• What are the typical tasks of a forestry consultant?
  - Advising, training, inventory work, and support for landowners in forest management and environmental issues.
• What benefits are common?
  - Pension schemes, wellness allowances, company cars, as well as opportunities for further education and flexible working hours.