How much does a Zoologist make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Zoologist
Image that illustrates Zoologist

Zoologist

39 200 kr

Plant and animal biologists

38 100 - 43 800 kr / month

Women earn 96% of what men do.

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Salary progression Zoologist

Average salary 39 200 kr
Males 39 900 kr
Females 38 400 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 2 Vacant jobs ->

What does a zoologist do? – Tasks and work environment

A zoologist studies animals, their behaviors, ecology, development, and interactions with their environment. Tasks may include field studies, laboratory analyses, data collection, and report writing. Many zoologists work at universities, research institutes, natural history museums, or environmental and conservation organizations. The work environment varies from office work and laboratories to fieldwork in diverse climates and terrains, sometimes involving long days outdoors. International collaboration and presentations at scientific conferences are often required.

Salary development over time

The salary of a zoologist has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, rising the following year to 37 800 SEK, which is an increase of just under 0.8%. Between 2023 and 2024, the salary increased further to 39 200 SEK, representing a rise of about 3.7% in the past year. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for specialist skills in scientific fields, as well as higher educational levels among recent graduates. Salary development is also influenced by competition for research funding and project-based positions, making the long-term trend dependent on both public and private investments in environment and biodiversity.

Zoologist salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 39 200 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 43,800 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
  • Highest salary (female): 42,800 SEK/month (private sector, doctoral degree)
  • Hourly wage: 236 SEK
  • Women: 38 400 SEK/month
  • Men: 39 900 SEK/month
  • Women earn: 96% of what men do

Zoologists not only work with wild animals in nature – many are also involved in education, environmental policy, and designing zoos. They often collaborate with experts from other fields, such as ecology, genetics, and conservation, to create long-term solutions for biological diversity.

– statsskuld.se

Education and qualifications

To work as a zoologist, a university degree in biology with a focus on zoology or ecology is usually required. Many zoologists also hold a master's or doctoral degree, as the profession is often research-oriented and competition for qualified positions is high. Practical experience through field studies or internships is also valuable, as are good knowledge of statistics and scientific methods.

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology (3 years)
  • Master’s degree in biology/zoology (2 years)
  • Doctoral studies (4 years) for higher positions
  • Internships or fieldwork during studies
  • Proficiency with computers and knowledge of statistics

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for zoologists include extra vacation days, wellness allowances, opportunities for international research trips, and professional development. Some employers also offer flexible working hours, support for further education, and access to laboratory and field equipment. Research staff may also receive project grants and publication support.

Competition and challenges

The competition for permanent positions as a zoologist is intense because many roles are tied to research projects with limited funding. Many zoologists need to be prepared to work in project-based roles or seek employment in related fields, such as environmental consulting or nature conservation officers. Challenges include uncertain funding, high educational requirements, and the need to constantly update knowledge in new research areas. Despite this, the profession is attractive for those passionate about science and animal welfare.

Tips for aspiring zoologists

To succeed as a zoologist, it is good to combine curiosity and analytical skills with patience and perseverance. Early engagement in fieldwork or volunteer projects provides valuable practical experience and deepens understanding of animals in their natural habitats. Precision and systematic working are key qualities, especially in data collection and analysis. Building networks within the research community and participating in scientific conferences open doors to future career opportunities. Communication skills are also crucial for publishing research results and spreading knowledge to the public. Finally, flexibility and problem-solving abilities facilitate work in diverse and sometimes challenging environments.

Key facts about zoologists

  • Educational level: Master’s or doctoral degree recommended
  • Work environment: Field, laboratory, and office
  • Occupational group: Plant and animal biologists
  • Number of job openings: 143 in the field
  • Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a zoologist can advance to senior research positions, project leader roles, or specialist advisors within environmental and conservation projects. It is also common to move into roles as university lecturers or supervisors for research students. According to the Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for zoologists, but among plant and animal biologists, there were 143 job openings during the last period. Future prospects depend on access to research funding and investments in the environmental sector, making the job market somewhat uncertain but full of opportunities for those with the right skills and drive.

Frequently asked questions about zoologists

  • What is the average salary for a zoologist?
    - A zoologist has an average salary of 39 200 SEK per month.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries for a zoologist?
    - The highest salary is 43,800 SEK and the lowest 38,100 SEK per month.
  • Are there differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do within the profession.
  • What education is required to become a zoologist?
    - Usually a bachelor's degree in biology and often a master's or doctoral degree.
  • What is the job market like for zoologists?
    - There are 143 job openings in the field, but competition is high.
  • What work environments do zoologists work in?
    - Zoologists work in the field, laboratories, and offices.
  • What qualities are important for a zoologist?
    - Accuracy, analytical skills, patience, and good communication skills are important.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-13 06:12:07

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Zoologist is 43800 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers with a postgraduate education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 42800 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Zoologist is 38100 kr. Both men and women in this profession have the same lowest salary and work in the Privately employed workers.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 35100 kr 35400 kr
35-44 38600 kr 38900 kr
45-54 42100 kr 42300 kr
55-64 43700 kr 44000 kr
Snitt 96% 38900 kr 39200 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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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 Zoologist has the SSYK code 2132, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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