How to Be Aviation Weather Observer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 14, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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When aviation weather observers detect changes in the atmosphere, it can cause significant impacts on air travel. Wind speed, temperature, humidity, and other atmospheric conditions can all influence the planning and operation of flights. In addition, hazardous weather such as thunderstorms, low visibility, and turbulence can lead to flight disruptions and delays.

By monitoring the atmosphere, observers can provide critical information to pilots and air traffic controllers, helping them make informed decisions about the safety of their passengers and flights. In addition, aviation weather observers can also detect more subtle changes in the atmosphere, such as changes in air pressure and moisture levels, which can be important indicators of developing weather systems. This type of information is invaluable in ensuring the safety of air travelers and helping to reduce flight disruptions and delays.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Aviation weather observers must have at least a bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related field.
Get Certified. After obtaining a bachelor's degree, aspiring aviation weather observers must become certified as an observer. This certification requires passing the National Weather Service's Operational Meteorologist examination.
Get Experience. Most employers prefer aviation weather observers to have at least two years of experience in the field. This can be gained through internships or positions at the National Weather Service or other government agencies.
Obtain a Licensure. In some states, aviation weather observers are required to obtain a license. Requirements vary by state, but typically include passing an exam as well as completing continuing education credits.
Apply for Jobs. Once qualified, individuals can apply for aviation weather observer jobs with the National Weather Service, Federal Aviation Administration, or private companies.

Effective aviation weather observation requires skill and efficiency. Proper training and experience can provide the necessary qualifications to become an aviation weather observer. Having an understanding of the principles of meteorology, aviation weather reports, and aviation safety practices is essential in order to accurately and effectively observe and report on weather conditions.

one must be familiar with the instruments and technology used to measure and record meteorological data. Furthermore, it is important to have the ability to quickly analyze and interpret the data, as well as communicate this information in a concise and clear manner. Being able to work both independently and within a team will help ensure the accuracy of the observations and ensure the safety of any aircraft that may be affected by the weather.

By having the required skills and expertise, an aviation weather observer can provide an invaluable service to the aviation community.

You may want to check Storm Spotter, Broadcast Meteorologist, and Applied Meteorologist for alternative.

Job Description

Gather, analyze and interpret meteorological data from a variety of sources, including satellite imagery and weather balloons.
Monitor, record and report hazardous weather conditions in the vicinity of airports and other aviation facilities.
Issue weather reports, forecasts, advisories and warnings to aviation personnel and other users of the National Airspace System.
Assist in the operation of FAA-approved automated weather observing systems.
Prepare written weather summaries for use by air traffic controllers and other aviation authorities.
Provide technical assistance to other federal agencies on aviation weather related issues.
Provide weather briefings and other meteorological information to pilots.
Monitor and report on the performance of automated weather observation systems.
Respond to inquiries from airline personnel, government agencies, and other users regarding aviation weather information.
Monitor and record significant weather events for both short-term and long-term analysis.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of current aviation weather forecasting methods and principles
Proficiency in the operation of weather observation and recording instruments
Ability to interpret aviation weather forecasts and observations
Capability to assess, analyze, and report weather conditions
Ability to effectively communicate weather conditions to pilots and air traffic controllers
Familiarity with aviation safety regulations and procedures
Knowledge of the impact of weather on aircraft performance
Understanding of the principles of meteorology
Ability to effectively use computer systems and software
Familiarity with aviation meteorological products and services

Being an Aviation Weather Observer requires a variety of skills, but the most important one is being able to accurately interpret and communicate the weather conditions. This requires knowledge of meteorology and how it relates to air travel, as well as having a keen eye for details. In order to be successful, the observer needs to be able to read and understand the latest weather forecasts, interpret satellite images, and collect data from various sources.

This data must then be analyzed to determine what weather is likely to occur in the area, and the observer must be able to make quick decisions based on this information. By providing up-to-date information on the weather in the area, Aviation Weather Observers can help to ensure safe air travel for pilots and passengers alike.

Marine Meteorologist, Aviation Meteorologist, and Climate Change Researcher are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as an Aviation Weather Observer?
How do you stay up to date on the latest weather developments?
Describe a time when you had to provide critical weather information to air traffic controllers.
What safety protocols do you follow when collecting weather data?
What tools do you use to make accurate weather forecasts?
How do you ensure that your forecasts are reliable and accurate?
Describe the most difficult weather phenomenon youve observed.
What methods do you use to analyze and interpret data?
How do you prioritize tasks to meet deadlines?
In what ways do you stay motivated and focused while working long hours?

Common Tools in Industry

Aviation Weather Reports. Reports detailing the current weather conditions at an airport or other aviation location. (Eg: METARs, SIGMETs, PIREPs)
Satellite Imagery. Images of the Earths atmosphere taken from satellites. (Eg: Visible, Infrared, Water Vapor)
Weather Radars. Ground-based systems used to detect precipitation and other storm-related conditions. (Eg: Doppler, Base Velocity)
Upper Air Soundings. Measurements of temperature, humidity, winds, and other upper atmosphere data taken by weather balloons or aircraft. (Eg: RAOBs, Profilers)
Lightning Detection Systems. Systems used to detect and map incoming lightning strikes. (Eg: NLDN, ATDnet)
Weather Analysis Software. Software programs used to interpret weather data and create forecasts. (Eg: GEMPAK, AWIPS)
Aviation Forecasts. Official forecasts issued by the National Weather Service for aviation operations. (Eg: TAFs, AIRMETs, SIGMETs)
Pilot Reports. Reports issued by pilots detailing their current weather conditions. (Eg: PIREPs)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Weather Association (NWA)
American Meteorological Society (AMS)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA)
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
International Aviation Safety Association (IASA)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

We also have Emergency Management Meteorologist, Air Quality Meteorologist, and Storm Chaser jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

METAR. Acronym for Meteorological Terminal Aviation Routine Weather Report, which is a weather observation report used to provide information about current weather conditions at an airport.
TAF. Acronym for Terminal Aerodrome Forecast, which is a weather forecast for an airport that predicts future conditions over a specific period.
Wind Shear. A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance in the atmosphere.
Ceiling. The height of the lowest layer of clouds or the vertical visibility into a cloud layer.
Visibility. The greatest distance an observer can see in a particular direction, usually expressed in miles or kilometers.
Pressure Altimeter. An instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure and calculate altitude.
Altostratus. A mid-level cloud type composed of water droplets or ice crystals, usually appearing in the form of grayish layers or sheets.
Orographic Lift. The process of air rising when it reaches a mountain range or other topographical feature.
Icing. The formation of ice on an aircrafts wings or other surfaces due to exposure to freezing temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become an Aviation Weather Observer?

To become an Aviation Weather Observer, individuals must have a high school diploma or GED and at least one year of experience in meteorology, aviation, or related field.

What type of duties do Aviation Weather Observers typically perform?

Aviation Weather Observers typically perform duties such as observing and reporting on weather conditions, preparing flight forecasts, and relaying information to pilots and air traffic controllers.

How often do Aviation Weather Observers typically work?

Aviation Weather Observers typically work on an 8-hour shift, usually five days a week.

What organizations employ Aviation Weather Observers?

Organizations such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Weather Service (NWS), and private aviation companies employ Aviation Weather Observers.