Forester, advice

What does a forest manager in advisory do? – Tasks and work environment

A forest manager in advisory provides professional guidance to forest owners, companies, and authorities on forest management, nature conservation, and sustainable use of forest resources. Workdays may include site visits and inventories, analysis of forest data, and designing management plans. Contact with clients is often personal and based on long-term relationships where the advisor helps maximize the value of the forest, both economically and ecologically. The work environment varies between office work, digital meetings, and outdoor work in changing weather and terrain, requiring flexibility and good physical condition. Collaborations with other specialists such as biologists, foresters, and environmental experts are common to find sustainable solutions tailored to each landowner's needs.

Salary development over time

The salary for a forest manager in advisory has shown steady and positive growth 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. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 43 100 SEK, representing a total increase of about 7.5% over the period. This development reflects an increased demand for specialist skills in sustainable forestry and advisory services, in line with the growing importance of environmental and climate issues in the industry. A shortage of experienced advisors and higher requirements for formal education have also contributed to salary increases. Although the pace of increase is somewhat slower compared to some other specialist professions, the trend remains upward and the job market remains relatively stable.

Forest manager in advisory 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, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (women 42 200 SEK, men 43 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a forest manager in advisory, a university degree in forest science or related fields is normally required. The most common pathway is to study the forest management program at a university or college, which is combined with internships and sometimes certifications depending on the area of work. Many employers value experience from fieldwork or previous advisory assignments, and it is advantageous to stay updated through further training and industry courses.

• Formal degree: Forest management program (3 years, university degree)
• Additional courses: Nature conservation, environmental law, economics
• Internships: Often integrated into education or as traineeships with forestry companies
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, often specific eligibility in biology/natural sciences
• Further education: Opportunities for master's or specialist courses in advisory and sustainable forestry

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for forest managers in advisory often include company cars or mileage allowances, wellness contributions, flexible working hours, and opportunities for skills development. Some employers also offer extra vacation days, pension contributions, and insurance covering both work and leisure. Access to modern technical equipment for fieldwork is common, as is the possibility of remote work part of the year.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a forest manager in advisory is relatively low, but variations occur depending on region and employer. One of the main challenges is staying updated on new regulations, environmental certifications, and digital tools. The profession also requires the ability to meet and communicate with different landowners and stakeholders, which can be complex when economic and environmental interests conflict. Seasonal variations and weather conditions affect workload, and there is sometimes uncertainty regarding long-term employment, especially with project-based or consulting roles. Despite this, the demand for qualified advisors remains stable, especially within sustainability issues and climate adaptation.

Tips for aspiring forest managers in advisory

To succeed as a forest manager in advisory, it is good to combine strong collaboration skills with a genuine interest in nature and sustainable development. An analytical mindset facilitates interpretation of forest data and development of action plans, while communication skills are crucial for building trust with landowners. It is recommended to seek internships or summer jobs within the forestry sector during studies to gain insight into real tasks. Being flexible and solution-oriented helps during fieldwork under varying conditions, and a willingness to continue education ensures knowledge stays current. Finally, developing a professional network is important, as many positions are filled through industry contacts.

Key facts about forest managers in advisory

• Average salary: 43 100 SEK/month
• Education level: University degree (forest management program, 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 259 SEK
• Available jobs: 360 advertised positions within the profession
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 97% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience as a forest manager in advisory, opportunities open to advance to senior advisor, project manager, or specialist roles within larger forestry companies, authorities, and consulting firms. Further education can lead to managerial positions or expert roles in environmental certification and sustainability issues. The Employment Service’s forecast for the profession is uncertain due to limited data, but the job market is considered stable with around 360 available jobs in similar roles. The future for forest managers with advisory skills is positively influenced by increased focus on climate adaptation, biodiversity, and digitalization of forestry, which is expected to create new tasks and specializations.

Frequently asked questions about forest managers in advisory

• What does a forest manager in advisory earn?
  - The average salary is 43 100 SEK per month, with a range from 27,000 SEK to 48,300 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a forest manager in advisory?
  - A three-year university degree, typically in the forest management program, is standard.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are approximately 360 available jobs, but the Employment Service provides no detailed forecast.
• What tasks does a forest manager in advisory perform?
  - Providing advice to forest owners, conducting field inventories, designing management plans, and working on sustainability issues.
• What benefits are common?
  - Company cars, wellness allowances, flexible hours, and skills development are common.
• Can one advance in the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities exist to become a senior advisor, project manager, or manager after some experience.