Meteorologist
A meteorologist is a scientist who studies Earth's atmosphere and its complex interactions that influence weather and climate. They utilize a variety of instruments and technologies to record atmospheric data and produce forecasts based on both short- and long-term weather patterns. Meteorologists play a crucial role in informing the public through media outlets such as television and radio, as well as aiding city planners in project design. Their work often involves collaboration with professionals from other scientific disciplines, including chemistry, physics, and oceanography.
Meteorologists can work in diverse environments, from governmental weather agencies to private sector consulting, and they frequently engage in fieldwork to gather real-time atmospheric data. Strong mathematical and analytical skills are essential, as meteorologists must interpret complex data to generate accurate forecasts. Education in this field typically requires a bachelor's degree in meteorology or atmospheric science, with advanced degrees often necessary for specialized roles. The profession not only attracts those interested in scientific inquiry but also requires effective communication skills to convey weather-related information to a broad audience.
Meteorologist
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Weather, climate patterns, science, atmospheric science, analyzing and interpreting data, research
Earnings (Yearly Median): $83,780 per year $40.28 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 4% (As fast as average)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work.Meteorology is the scientific study of Earth’s atmosphere and the natural forces that shape weather and climate patterns. Using atmospheric forecasting and research, meteorologists explain and forecast how the atmosphere affects the Earth. Meteorologists in all specialties use instruments to record the short- and long-term effects of climate and variations in weather patterns. They use their skills and experience to produce and deliver forecasts and other weather-related information to the public via radio and television, among other mediums. Meteorologists can also use their forecasting skills to help city planners locate and design construction projects like airports and factories.
Work Environment. Meteorologists collaborate with other scientists and researchers in basic disciplines such as chemistry, physics, mathematics, oceanography, and hydrology. They can operate in any environment, from weather centers to field offices to ships at sea. The government is the largest employer of meteorologists in the US. Meteorologists work for government agencies such as the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and Department of Agriculture, while many serve as civilians in the military. Broadcast meteorologists typically work for television and radio stations. Some meteorologists are self-employed and consult for large corporations.
Occupation Interest. Many people are drawn to meteorology because they want to address the challenge of forecasting natural events worldwide. As such, meteorologists should be interested in the world around them and want to understand the scientific principles that explain the patterns of atmospheric behavior. They must also be comfortable working with computer and satellite technology and other research instruments and analyzing and interpreting data; forecasting is continually changing and improving, resulting in more accurate predictions over longer periods (such as five- or ten-day outlooks).
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Meteorologists must be able to direct, plan, and oversee the work of others and be able to use reasoning and logic to come to conclusions about forecasting weather. On a typical day, they consult charts and graphs and apply mathematical concepts to help them perceive differences in paths between still or moving objects and picture three-dimensional objects from drawings or photos. Meteorologists base their decisions on measurable data as well as on personal judgment.
Meteorologists from around the world work together daily. They take atmospheric measurements several times daily from surface weather stations and onboard ships at sea. Then, they analyze and interpret weather data generated and gathered by upper air stations and satellites and through weather reports and radar to prepare forecasts for the media and public. They use computer modeling and simulation to assist in creating these forecasts. Meteorologists also analyze charts, photos, data, and information related to barometric pressure, temperature, humidity, and wind velocity. They issue storm warnings and advise pilots on atmospheric conditions such as turbulence, winds aloft, and cloud formations. They also provide relevant forecasts for sea transportation. Some meteorologists make tailored predictions for specific clients, such as city managers and agricultural stakeholders.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Meteorologists work in a variety of physical locations. They can work in large field offices near airports or big cities, or they may operate from smaller sites in remote areas. Those in smaller, remote stations often work alone. Other meteorologists are on board ships, doing field work where visual weather observations are required. Some are located at television and radio stations. Meteorologists work primarily indoors. Weather support units at US military bases include global weather centers and command and control centers at sea.
Human Environment. Weather stations and offices are located nationwide. Meteorologists work with a variety of other scientists in addition to lay people, such as broadcast journalists, who may simply report on the weather. Meteorologists should, therefore, be aware of other peoples’ roles and levels of knowledge so that technology terms can be explained at the appropriate level. Strong communication skills are essential.
Technological Environment. Meteorologists use highly sophisticated tools to collect and analyze data. Radar systems, aircraft, satellites, and weather balloons gather atmospheric information. Computers analyze the collected data and create simulations, models, and forecasts.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Since meteorology is highly scientific, the most prepared high school students will have taken calculus-level mathematics, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, and computer science. Mathematical proficiency is required in every aspect of physical science. It is also necessary to have a strong command of written and spoken English as well as other languages for following international developments.
Postsecondary. Many universities offer a bachelor’s degree in meteorology or atmospheric science. Meteorology is calculus-based, which means the academic coursework is designed to maximize its use. Recommended courses include physics, chemistry, geography, hydrology, oceanography, differential equations, linear algebra, numerical analysis, and computer science. Some university programs focus more on broad-based meteorological studies, while others focus on more specialty areas. Undergraduate programs provide the foundation needed to move into specialties, such as agricultural meteorology. Those interested in pursuing a career in meteorology should consider applying for relevant internships.
While a bachelor’s degree is the norm, the best jobs are available to those with graduate-level education. Advanced degrees are beneficial and often required for atmospheric research. Those with a master’s degree are qualified to work as operational meteorologists for the government or in private-sector organizations. Alternatively, they may work as assistants to researchers with doctoral degrees. Those who wish to teach at the university level must have a master’s degree.
Related Occupations
Bibliography
“Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 6 Sept. 2023, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/atmospheric-scientists-including-meteorologists.htm. Accessed 28 Sept. 2023.
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022: 19-2021 Atmospheric and Space Scientists.” Occupational Employment Statistics. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 25 Apr. 2023, www.bls.gov/OES/current/oes192021.htm. Accessed 28 Sept. 2023.