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Meteorologist
What You Do
Meteorologists help us decide whether it's a good day to go to the beach, go hiking, or stay indoors. They analyze the weather and tell the public what kind of weather to expect. However, they do more than forecast weather conditions and temperatures. Some meteorologists study atmospheric phenomena such as climate change, pollution, and storms. Others conduct research in all areas involving the atmosphere.
Meteorology is part of a larger discipline called atmospheric science. Some of its areas of specialization include:
- weather forecasting
- climatology (weather history and patterns)
- dynamic meteorology (movement of weather systems and what controls them)
- physical meteorology ( physical-chemical nature of the atmosphere)
- industrial meteorology (effects of industrial and urban environments on weather and climate)
Where You Work
Traditionally, weather and meteorological information has been provided by the government for public use. Thus, many meteorologists work for federal, state, or city weather offices. Others work for private companies that rely on climate information. Examples of these include private consulting firms, resource industries (i.e. gas and oil exploration), and utility companies (like hydroelectric plants).
Training
A bachelor's degree in meteorology or a related field is the standard minimum requirement for entry-level meteorologist positions. Coursework in weather analysis and forecasting, dynamic meteorology, calculus, and physics is helpful. Earning a graduate degree, either master's or Ph.D., will increase your chance of getting hired and being promoted. Research and teaching positions usually require a graduate degree.
The outlook for weather forecasters is growing in the industrial consulting business. The use of meteorological services by farmers, commodities investors, utilities, transportation and construction firms, and radio/TV stations is also increasing.
Information Source:
Related web sites:
American Meteorological Society