- Salary statistics
- Occupational hygienist salary
Occupational hygienist salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
41 000 - 59 200 SEK / month
Women earn 96% of what men do.
Säkerhetsarbete
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Salary progression Occupational hygienist
What does an occupational hygienist do? – Tasks and work environment
An occupational hygienist works to identify, assess, and prevent health risks in the work environment, especially those arising from chemical, biological, or physical factors. Tasks often include conducting risk assessments, performing measurements of air quality, noise, and exposure to hazardous substances, as well as proposing measures to improve the work environment. Occupational hygienists regularly collaborate with employers, safety representatives, and other experts in occupational health to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. The role can involve both office work and fieldwork at various workplaces across different industries.
Salary development over time
The salary for occupational hygienists has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 48,600 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 53 200 SEK, representing a salary increase of approximately 5.2%. The latest year, 2024, the average salary further rose to 54 500 SEK, an increase of about 3.9% compared to the previous year. This salary trend reflects an increased demand for expertise in occupational health and safety, as well as a general trend of higher wages within qualified engineering and specialist roles. More employers now seek in-depth knowledge of occupational health legislation and risk management, which positively influences salary levels.
Occupational hygienist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 54 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, high school education)
- Highest salary: 58,700 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 320 SEK/hour
- Women: 53 300 SEK/month
- Men: 55 500 SEK/month
- Women earn: 96% of what men do
- Regional differences: Data not specified
Education and qualifications
To work as an occupational hygienist, a post-secondary education in occupational health, environmental engineering, chemistry, or similar fields is usually required. Many occupational hygienists hold an engineering degree with a focus on occupational health or environmental hygiene, and specialized courses in toxicology, ventilation, or risk assessment are also common. Practical experience in occupational health work is highly valued and can be complemented with certifications in the occupational health field.
- Formal education: Post-secondary education in occupational health, environmental engineering, or chemistry (3–5 years)
- Certifications: Courses in toxicology, risk assessment, and ventilation
- Internship: Internships or trainee programs in occupational health or occupational health services
- Prerequisites: High school education with a science or technical focus
- Tips for choosing: Opt for programs focused on occupational health and environmental hygiene for the best prospects
An interesting aspect of an occupational hygienist’s daily work is the variety – it’s not uncommon to visit everything from industrial facilities to office environments and laboratories within the same week. This requires both flexibility and an analytical mindset to quickly adapt to different workplaces and risk environments.
Common benefits and compensations
Occupational hygienists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flex-time agreements, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development. Occupational pension schemes, favorable insurances, and sometimes remote work options are also common benefits within the profession.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an occupational hygienist is moderate, but variations occur depending on the region and employer. A challenge is that the job market is relatively small, meaning the number of available positions does not always match the number of qualified candidates. Specialized skills, such as chemical risk assessment or occupational health legislation, increase employment opportunities. Continuous further education is necessary to stay updated with new regulations and research findings. The ability to communicate complex risk assessments pedagogically is crucial for success in the role.
Tips for aspiring occupational hygienists
To succeed as an occupational hygienist, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with curiosity and an interest in people’s health. A good sense of organization facilitates accurate documentation of measurements and report compilation. Strong communication skills are valuable, especially when presenting risk assessments to both technical and non-technical audiences. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different work environments are important, as assignments often switch between offices, industry, and fieldwork. A commitment to occupational health issues and a constant desire to learn are also essential, as legislation and technology develop rapidly. Finally, patience and perseverance are key qualities, as improvements in the work environment often require long-term efforts and collaboration with many stakeholders.
Key facts about occupational hygienists
- Education level: Post-secondary education (3–5 years)
- Work environment: Varies between office, industry, and fieldwork
- Typical employment: Full-time, often within occupational health services or larger companies
- Demand: 191 reported job openings in 2024
- Special skills: Risk assessment, occupational health legislation, chemical/environmental hygiene
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, an occupational hygienist can advance to roles such as occupational health specialist, project manager for occupational health projects, or manager within occupational health services. There are also opportunities for further specialization in areas like chemical risk assessment, ventilation technology, or policy development. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts do not provide a specific assessment for occupational hygienists due to limited data, but the job market remains stable with 191 reported job openings in 2024. The demand for specialists in occupational health is expected to increase as regulations and awareness of workplace risks intensify, especially in larger companies and the public sector.
Frequently asked questions about occupational hygienists
- What does an occupational hygienist earn?
- The average salary is 54 500 SEK per month, but variations occur depending on experience and employer. - What education is required to become an occupational hygienist?
- A post-secondary education in occupational health, environmental engineering, or chemistry is required, often on a 3–5 year basis. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession. - Where do occupational hygienists usually work?
- Common employers include occupational health services, larger companies, public authorities, and consulting firms. - What is the state of the job market?
- The job market is stable, with 191 reported job openings in 2024. - What are the job responsibilities of an occupational hygienist?
- Tasks include risk assessments, measurements, advising, and training within occupational health. - What are the highest and lowest salaries for occupational hygienists?
- Highest salary: 58,700 SEK (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education). Lowest salary: 41,700 SEK (female, private sector worker, high school education).
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 47200 kr | 47800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 51100 kr | 53200 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 54800 kr | 56800 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 55700 kr | 57400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 52700 kr | 54500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47800 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47800 kr | 50100 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49600 kr | 51500 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51500 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 51600 kr | 51600 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49200 kr | 51000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47800 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47800 kr | 50100 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49600 kr | 51500 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51500 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 51600 kr | 51600 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49200 kr | 51000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 47200 kr | 47800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 51600 kr | 53700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56600 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57400 kr | 59000 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53500 kr | 55300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 47200 kr | 47800 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 51600 kr | 53700 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56600 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57400 kr | 59000 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53500 kr | 55300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 51800 kr | 55300 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 54800 kr | 57400 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 55900 kr | 58000 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 53300 kr | 55500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47700 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 48000 kr | 51200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49900 kr | 52600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51800 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 54200 kr | 54200 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49500 kr | 51800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47700 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 48000 kr | 51200 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49900 kr | 52600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49700 kr | 51800 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 54200 kr | 54200 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49500 kr | 51800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 52500 kr | 56000 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56100 kr | 58600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57200 kr | 59300 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 54000 kr | 56100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 52500 kr | 56000 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 56100 kr | 58600 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57200 kr | 59300 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 54000 kr | 56100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 44500 kr | 45500 kr | |
| 35-44 | 93% | 50500 kr | 51500 kr |
| 45-54 | 98% | 54800 kr | 56400 kr |
| 55-64 | 97% | 55400 kr | 56400 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 52100 kr | 53300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47900 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47700 kr | 49300 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49400 kr | 50700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49600 kr | 51200 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 48500 kr | 48500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49000 kr | 50400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 100% | 47100 kr | 47900 kr |
| 35-44 | 96% | 47700 kr | 49300 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 49400 kr | 50700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 49600 kr | 51200 kr |
| 65-68 | 89% | 48500 kr | 48500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 49000 kr | 50400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 51000 kr | 51800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57000 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57700 kr | 58500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53000 kr | 54200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 93% | 51000 kr | 51800 kr |
| 45-54 | 100% | 57000 kr | 58700 kr |
| 55-64 | 99% | 57700 kr | 58500 kr |
| Snitt | 97% | 53000 kr | 54200 kr |
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 Occupational hygienist has the SSYK code 2181, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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