Diocesan forester

What does a Stiftsjägmästare do? – Tasks and work environment

A Stiftsjägmästare is responsible for managing larger forest holdings, often linked to church dioceses or similar institutions. Tasks include planning and leading forest management, harvesting, replanting, and monitoring environmental and conservation aspects. The role also involves budget management, procurement of contractors, and collaboration with authorities, landowners, and other stakeholders. The work environment is varied, alternating between fieldwork in forests and administrative tasks at the office. A Stiftsjägmästare often works independently but maintains close cooperation with other managers, forest engineers, and specialists in environmental protection and finance.

Salary development over time

The salary development for Stiftsjägmästare has been stable and positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 54,500 SEK, which increased to 55 000 SEK in 2023 and reached 56 100 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 2.9% over the three-year period. The trend shows continued demand for qualified expertise in forest management, driven by increased requirements for sustainability, environmental adaptation, and efficient resource use. Factors such as the availability of experienced managers and education levels influence salary levels, with private sector employees generally earning slightly higher wages than public sector employees. The market for Stiftsjägmästare is characterized by relatively small salary differences between years but with clear advantages for those with longer education and specialized experience.

Stiftsjägmästare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 56 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,100 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 64,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 337 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 55 500 SEK/month, women 53,000 SEK/month (highest known salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on employer and region

Education and qualifications

To work as a Stiftsjägmästare, higher education in forestry science is usually required, often at university or college level. Many in the profession also have supplementary education in economics, environmental science, or management. Practical experience in forest management or related roles is highly meritorious and often a requirement for the most qualified positions.

• Formal degree: Degree as a Forest Manager or Jägmästare (3–5 years at university/college)
• Certifications: Courses in environmental management, conservation, and management are advantageous
• Practical experience: Work experience in forest management or similar is often required
• Prerequisites: Natural science high school education recommended
• Tips for specialization: Further education in economics and sustainability issues provides a competitive edge

Common benefits and compensations

Stiftsjägmästare are often offered company cars or car allowances, wellness contributions, and opportunities for professional development. Other common benefits include pension contributions, flexible working hours, and sometimes housing allowances linked to the position. Larger employers may also offer bonuses or performance-based compensation.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Stiftsjägmästare is moderate but intensifies as the number of vacancies varies across regions. Challenges in the profession include managing conflicting interests between economic return, environmental requirements, and social values. Changing regulations and increasing demands for sustainability reporting place high demands on education and awareness of external developments. Additionally, workload can be high at times, especially during major harvests or projects. The profession also requires the ability to quickly adapt to new technological solutions and digital tools in forest management.

Tips for aspiring Stiftsjägmästare

To succeed as a Stiftsjägmästare, it’s good to combine a strong interest in nature and the environment with analytical skills and an economic mindset. Precision is crucial for managing complex regulations and planning processes, while good communication skills are needed to collaborate with various stakeholders. Being solution-oriented helps in difficult trade-offs between economy and environmental considerations, and a willingness to continually develop your skills is important to stay updated with new techniques and legal requirements. Flexibility and perseverance are qualities that facilitate a daily routine where tasks can vary greatly between fieldwork and administration. Finally, demonstrating leadership and the ability to make independent decisions in complex situations benefits those aiming for advancement.

Key facts about Stiftsjägmästare

• Educational level: University or college degree in forestry science (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Alternates between fieldwork in forests and office work
• Typical employment: Full-time, often with flexible working hours
• Demand: 175 job openings within the profession (2024)
• Special skills: Forest economics, environmental law, conservation planning

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Stiftsjägmästare, opportunities exist to advance to senior management roles, such as forest management director or regional manager within larger organizations. Many also move into specialist roles in conservation, certification, or advisory services related to sustainable forestry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand for experienced managers remains stable, especially in areas where expertise in sustainability management and digitalization is sought. Regionally, competition may be greater in metropolitan areas, while rural areas often offer more opportunities for specialization and leadership roles. Digitalization and increased environmental requirements drive the need for continuous skills development within the profession.

Common questions about Stiftsjägmästare

• What does a Stiftsjägmästare earn?
  - A Stiftsjägmästare has an average salary of 56 100 SEK per month.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 55 500 SEK, while the highest known salary for women is 53,000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Stiftsjägmästare?
  - Usually, a degree as a Forest Manager or Jägmästare from a university or college is required.
• What is the job market like for Stiftsjägmästare?
  - There are approximately 175 job openings in the profession, and demand is considered stable.
• What does a Stiftsjägmästare do in their daily work?
  - Tasks include forest management, planning, environmental protection, and budget management.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries vary depending on employer and region.
• What personal qualities are important for a Stiftsjägmästare?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, leadership, and communication skills are important qualities.