How to Be Meteorologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 19, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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An increase in carbon emissions has caused a global rise in temperatures and a resulting increase in extreme weather events. This has led to more frequent and intense hurricanes, heat waves, droughts, wildfires, and floods. As a result, communities around the world are facing increasingly dangerous and costly disasters, threatening human lives and property.

Meteorologists are playing a critical role in helping to predict and prepare for these events. They use sophisticated technology and data to monitor changing weather patterns and develop methods to protect communities from the impacts of extreme weather.

Steps How to Become

Take courses in math and science, such as algebra, calculus, chemistry and physics. Most meteorologists have at least a bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science or a related field.
Take courses in meteorology and related fields at a college or university. Some schools offer undergraduate degrees in meteorology or atmospheric science, while others offer graduate degrees.
Consider taking additional courses in computer science and physics, as these are essential for understanding weather systems and forecasting weather.
Seek out internships or other field experience in meteorology. This will give you a better understanding of the field and allow you to gain valuable experience.
Get certified by the American Meteorological Society (AMS). This is the professional organization for meteorologists, and having certification is beneficial for employment opportunities.
Consider joining the National Weather Association (NWA). This organization provides networking opportunities and professional development resources for meteorologists.
Keep up to date on new research and technologies in the field. This will help you stay up to date with the latest developments in the field and give you a competitive edge.

The path to becoming a qualified meteorologist requires a significant amount of education and skill-building. First and foremost, earning a bachelors degree in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, or a related field is necessary to gain entry-level employment. After completing a degree, aspiring meteorologists can further their knowledge by taking courses in mathematics, physics, and computer science.

Once the required educational qualifications have been met, meteorologists must then obtain certification from the American Meteorological Society and the National Weather Association. Finally, in order to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in weather forecasting and technology, continuing education is important. By following this educational path and honing their skills, meteorologists can become highly qualified and respected professionals in the field.

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Job Description

Operate weather instruments and data-collection equipment to collect information on atmospheric conditions
Analyze data collected to produce forecasts
Prepare and disseminate weather forecasts, warnings, and advisories through television, radio, internet, and other media outlets
Monitor and interpret satellite imagery, radar imagery, and other meteorological data
Assist in the development of computer models to predict weather patterns
Plan and conduct field studies to measure weather conditions in specific areas
Prepare detailed reports on meteorological events
Interact with other scientists and engineers to exchange ideas and collaborate on research projects
Advise agricultural, aviation, maritime, and other industries on weather-related issues
Present scientific papers on meteorology at conferences and symposiums

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of meteorology and atmospheric science
Knowledge of weather forecasting principles and techniques
Understanding of climate systems and dynamics
Familiarity with radar and satellite technologies
Ability to communicate complex weather information to the public, media, and other organizations
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Excellent problem-solving skills
Adaptability to changing weather conditions
Ability to use weather instruments such as anemometers and rain gauges
Knowledge of computer software programs used in meteorology, such as GIS and numerical weather prediction (NWP) systems

The ability to think critically and analyze data are essential skills for a meteorologist. With the help of computers, meteorologists must be able to interpret complex weather patterns and develop sophisticated models to predict future weather. They must also be able to read and understand weather reports and forecasts, as well as be able to communicate the results of their research in a clear and precise manner.

In addition, they must be familiar with the various instruments and technology used to measure atmospheric conditions. Without these critical skills, meteorologists would not be able to accurately report on and predict the ever-changing weather patterns that occur each day. Furthermore, the ability to communicate effectively with other scientists, government officials, and the public is also a key skill to have in order to effectively disseminate important information related to severe weather events or climate change.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in meteorology?
How do you keep up to date with developments in meteorology?
How would you explain complex weather patterns to a layperson?
Describe a time when you have made a successful forecast.
What tools do you use to analyze weather data?
Describe your experience with computer modeling.
How do you handle the stress of making predictions in rapidly changing weather conditions?
What techniques do you use to communicate forecasts effectively?
How do you collaborate with other meteorologists to make accurate predictions?
How do you use social media to inform the public about extreme weather events?

Common Tools in Industry

Data Analysis Software. Used to analyze and interpret data, often making use of mathematical models and statistical techniques. (e. g. MATLAB, Python)
Weather Modeling Software. Software used to build atmospheric models that simulate the behavior of the atmosphere. (e. g. WRF, ROMS)
Satellite Imaging Software. Used to interpret images from satellites and other remote sensing devices. (e. g. ENVI, ERDAS)
Radar Software. Software used to interpret data from weather radars. (e. g. WDSS-II, GRLevelX)
Visualization Software. Used to create visual representations of data for easier interpretation and analysis. (e. g. ParaView, VisIt)
Weather Forecasting Software. Used to create numerical weather forecasts based on the current conditions and historical data. (e. g. GFS, WRF-ARW)
Weather Station Network Software. Used to collect, store, and analyze data from weather stations in a network. (e. g. WeatherLink, Meteobridge)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Meteorological Society
National Weather Association
World Meteorological Organization
International Association of Broadcast Meteorology
International Commission on Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics
International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics
European Meteorological Society
Asia Oceania Geosciences Society
American Geophysical Union
American Association of State Climatologists

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Common Important Terms

Climate. The long-term average of weather patterns and conditions in a particular region.
Weather. The short-term conditions of the atmosphere in a given area, including temperature, pressure, humidity, precipitation, and wind.
Precipitation. Any kind of water that falls from the atmosphere to the earth's surface, including rain, snow, hail, and sleet.
Air Pressure. The pressure created by the weight of the atmosphere and its contents.
Wind. The movement of air caused by differences in atmospheric pressure.
Synoptic Chart. A map that shows the spatial distribution of weather features such as temperature, pressure, and wind.
Temperature. The measure of the intensity of heat in a given environment.
Humidity. The amount of water vapor in the air.
Jet Stream. A narrow band of high-speed winds in the upper atmosphere that are responsible for steering weather systems.
Fronts. The boundary between two air masses of different temperatures and densities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average annual salary for a Meteorologist?

The median annual salary for a Meteorologist is roughly $87, 780 USD.

What type of degree do I need to become a Meteorologist?

To become a Meteorologist, you typically need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in meteorology or a related field such as atmospheric science, physics, or mathematics.

What type of work does a Meteorologist do?

Meteorologists are typically tasked with analyzing meteorological data from satellites and other sources, forecasting weather and climate conditions, and providing reports to the public.

What is the job outlook for Meteorologists?

The job outlook for Meteorologists is projected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029.

What are some common specializations within Meteorology?

Common specializations within Meteorology include hydrometeorology, climatology, physical meteorology, atmospheric chemistry and physics, and numerical weather prediction.