Meteorologist

Job Description:

A meteorologist studies and predicts weather patterns and atmospheric conditions to provide weather forecasts, assess climate trends, and offer weather-related guidance and information.

Job Category:

Environmental Industry

See Environmental Industry jobs

What you will do:

As a meteorologist, you will:

analyse data from weather observations, satellites, radar, and computer models to predict short-term and long-term weather patterns and provide accurate forecasts
study historical weather data and long-term climate trends to assess climate variability and change, contributing to climate research and assessments
monitor and track severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, and winter storms, issuing warnings and providing public safety information
conduct research to better understand atmospheric processes, climate systems, and weather phenomena, contributing to scientific knowledge and advancements
assess the impact of weather and climate on the environment, including ecosystems, agriculture, and natural resources
provide weather-related guidance to farmers, fishermen, and maritime operations to optimise agricultural practices and ensure safe marine navigation
provide critical weather information to pilots and aviation authorities to ensure safe and efficient air travel
work in media as television or radio weather presenters, delivering weather forecasts and information to the public
use computer models to simulate climate and weather scenarios, contributing to climate change predictions and mitigation strategies
support disaster management efforts by providing early warnings and situational awareness during natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires
work in academic institutions, educating future meteorologists and scientists
offer consulting services to industries such as energy, insurance, and agriculture, providing weather-related insights and risk assessments
work in government agencies, providing weather and climate information for policy development, environmental regulations, and disaster preparedness
oversee weather observation networks and maintain meteorological instruments to ensure the accuracy of weather data
engage with the public, explaining weather phenomena, safety measures, and climate-related issues through educational programs, outreach, and community engagement

Skills:

You will need:

knowledge in meteorological principles
knowledge in mathematics, physics, environmental science and climate science
knowledge in computers and remote sensing
knowledge of meteorological instruments and how to use them for data collection
proficiency in using computer models and numerical weather prediction techniques to simulate and predict weather patterns
the ability to analyse and interpret weather data
understanding geographical features and their influence on local weather patterns
familiarity with programming languages (e.g., Python) and computer models used in meteorology for data analysis and forecasting
knowledge of safety procedures when working with weather instruments or during fieldwork in extreme weather conditions

As well as:

critical thinking skills
problem-solving and decision-making skills
the ability to pay attention to detail
effective communication skills
teamwork skills
adaptability skills
stress management
time management (organisational skills)
customer service
ethics

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a meteorologist, it’s beneficial to choose GCSE subjects that provide a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and communication skills. Consider taking:

Mathematics: A strong grasp of mathematics is crucial for meteorology, as it involves complex calculations and data analysis.
Physics: Physics provides essential knowledge about the principles of energy, motion, and forces, which are fundamental to understanding atmospheric processes.
Chemistry: Chemistry can help you understand chemical reactions and properties of atmospheric elements, which are relevant in meteorological studies.
Geography: Geography provides insights into Earth’s physical features, climate systems, and weather patterns.
English Language: Strong communication skills, including writing and presentation, are important for conveying weather information accurately.
Computer Science: Proficiency in using computers and software for data analysis and modelling is valuable in modern meteorology.

While these subjects are beneficial, keep in mind that a solid educational background in meteorology typically starts at the undergraduate level. Therefore, focusing on relevant A-levels or equivalent qualifications in science and mathematics after GCSEs is essential for pursuing a degree in meteorology or atmospheric science.

To become a meteorologist, you need specific qualifications and requirements, which can vary depending on your career goals and the level of expertise you want to achieve. Here are the general qualifications and requirements:

Educational Background

Bachelor’s Degree: Typically, a bachelor’s degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a closely related field is the minimum requirement. This degree provides a foundational understanding of meteorological principles.

Advanced Degrees (Optional): Some meteorologists pursue master’s or Ph.D. degrees for specialised research, academic, or advanced forecasting roles.

Internships and Practical Experience

Seek internships or entry-level positions to gain hands-on experience in data collection, observation, and analysis. Practical experience is crucial for career development.

Certifications (Optional)

While not mandatory, certifications can enhance your qualifications and expertise. Consider certifications such as the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) or the Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) for specialised roles.

Specialisation (Optional)

Depending on your career goals, consider specialising in areas such as severe weather, climatology, aviation meteorology, or environmental meteorology.

Physical Fitness (for certain roles)

Some meteorological positions, particularly those involving fieldwork or severe weather monitoring, may require physical fitness and the ability to work in challenging conditions.

Working Hours and Environment:

Meteorologists work in shifts, including nights and weekends, to provide continuous weather monitoring, and their work environments range from weather forecasting offices and research institutions to outdoor fieldwork during severe weather events.

Career Path & Progression:

Meteorologists typically start with a bachelor’s degree, gain experience, and may specialise or pursue advanced degrees. They can advance to senior roles, obtain certifications, network, stay updated, and consider leadership positions or career transitions as they progress in their careers.