Atmospheric & Space Scientists

Also Called: Forecaster, General Forecaster, Meteorologist, Warning Coordination Meteorologist

What Atmospheric & Space Scientists do

Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.

  • Broadcast weather conditions, forecasts, or severe weather warnings to the public via television, radio, or the Internet or provide this information to the news media.
  • Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
  • Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
Industry Areas:

Renewable Resources and Energy

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Work Context

  • Electronic Mail
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Spend Time Sitting
  • Telephone

Tools

  • Temperature or humidity surface observing apparatus
  • Radarbased surveillance systems
  • Hygrometers
  • Anemometers
  • Rainfall recorders

Technology

Analytical or scientific software
IBM SPSS Statistics
The MathWorks MATLAB
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
Microsoft Paint

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Science
  • Speaking

Knowledge

Math and Science
physics
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Arts and Humanities
English language
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
product and service development
Communications
multimedia

Education

  • 50% Bachelor's degree
  • 30% Master's degree
  • 15% Doctoral degree

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Investigative (Thinker)
  • Realistic (Doer)

Work Styles

  • Analytical Thinking
  • Dependability
  • Attention to Detail
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Achievement/Effort

Values

  • Achievement
  • Independence
  • Relationships

Abilities

  • Verbal
  • Ideas and Logic
  • Math
  • Visual Understanding

This is what Atmospheric & Space Scientists across the country typically make.

$23.54 / hour
$48,960 /year

Entry Level

$44.65 / hour
$92,860 /year

Median Level

$75.60 / hour
$157,250 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Bright

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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