Game researchers

What does a Wildlife Researcher do? – Tasks and work environment

A Wildlife Researcher works on investigating wild animals and their habitats, often focusing on ecology, behavior, population dynamics, and interactions between species and the environment. Common tasks include field studies, collection and analysis of biological data, inventory of animal populations, and evaluation of the effects of hunting, climate change, and conservation measures. The work takes place both outdoors in forests and on land, and indoors in laboratories or at computers where data is compiled and reports are written. The researcher often collaborates with authorities, conservation organizations, and universities.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Wildlife Researchers have experienced stable salary growth. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, increasing to 37 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 39 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of just over 4.5% over the period, which is in line with or slightly above inflation rates in Sweden. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for specialist skills in natural sciences and a growing need for research related to climate change and biodiversity. Salary levels are also influenced by education and employer, with those holding doctoral degrees and employed in the private sector generally earning higher wages than those with shorter education or public employment.

Wildlife Researcher salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 43,800 SEK/month (men), 42,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 236 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (men 39 900 SEK, women 38 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Limited data, but variations occur depending on employer and project

Education and qualifications

To work as a Wildlife Researcher, a higher education in biology, ecology, or natural sciences is usually required, often with specialization in zoology or ecology. Many also have a doctoral degree and experience in practical fieldwork and scientific analysis. Internships, project work, and participation in research projects during studies are highly meritorious.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology/natural sciences: 3 years
• Master’s degree in ecology/zoology: 2 years
• Doctoral studies: 4 years, often advantageous for higher positions
• Internships and field studies: Usually required for employment
• Courses in statistics and GIS: Common and in demand
• Prerequisites: Basic education in natural sciences

Common benefits and compensations

Wildlife Researchers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Business trips and field equipment are usually included in employment, and extra compensation is common for work during inconvenient hours or field periods. Employment at universities or government agencies often provides collective agreement terms, including occupational pension and insurance.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Wildlife Researcher can be tough, especially for permanent employment within academia or government agencies. Many projects are time-limited and financed through external research funds, requiring flexibility and networking for new assignments. Challenges include a limited number of positions, high demands for scientific publication, and staying updated in a rapidly evolving research field. Additional practical challenges involve long field periods and work under varying weather conditions.

Tips for aspiring Wildlife Researchers

To succeed as a Wildlife Researcher, it’s good to combine scientific curiosity with perseverance and accuracy. Building broad experience through internships and fieldwork enhances employment prospects, especially if you are flexible and able to work in different environments. Developing skills in statistics and digital data analysis is also important, as is the ability to communicate results clearly both verbally and in writing. Good teamwork skills and a willingness to work in interdisciplinary teams are valuable, as many research projects involve multiple parties. Engagement and a genuine interest in conservation also facilitate establishing long-term contacts in the industry.

Key facts about Wildlife Researchers

• Average salary: 39 200 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: At least a bachelor’s degree, often a master’s or doctoral degree
• Hourly wage (average): 236 SEK
• Typical work environment: Fieldwork combined with office work
• Number of available jobs (2024): 143 within the field of plant and animal biologists

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Wildlife Researcher, opportunities exist to advance to project leader, senior researcher, or specialist roles in areas such as conservation, ecosystem services, or environmental analysis. Some choose to work internationally or switch to roles within authorities, environmental consulting firms, or conservation organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for Wildlife Researchers, but within the field of plant and animal biologists, the job market is considered relatively stable with 143 available positions in 2024. Demand is influenced by research funding and environmental policy priorities, and competition for permanent positions remains high.

Common questions about Wildlife Researchers

• What does a Wildlife Researcher earn?
  - A Wildlife Researcher has an average salary of 39 200 SEK per month. The salary varies depending on education, employer, and experience.
• What education is required to become a Wildlife Researcher?
  - At least a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field is required. A master’s or doctoral degree and fieldwork experience are often requested.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession. Men have an average salary of 39 900 SEK, women 38 400 SEK.
• What is the job market like for Wildlife Researchers?
  - The job market is stable, but competition for permanent positions is high. In 2024, there are 143 available jobs within the profession.
• What tasks does a Wildlife Researcher perform?
  - Tasks include field studies, data analysis, report writing, and collaboration with authorities and organizations.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Curiosity, endurance, accuracy, and teamwork skills are important qualities for the profession.
• How much does a Wildlife Researcher earn per hour?
  - The average hourly wage is 236 SEK based on 166 working hours per month.