Careers in Meteorology

Many people only know meteorologists as the people who gives you the daily forecast on the local news, however, the vast majority of meteorologists work at universities, private companies, and the government, where they conduct research, consult, and teach.  

In order to pursue a  career in meteorology, a degree in meteorology/atmospheric science is needed.  In addition to meteorology courses,  students should expect to take calculus, physics, and chemistry courses as well.  Depending on the career path  chosen after graduation , a minor in computer science, communication, geography, social sciences, physics, or math could be beneficial..  Continuing on to graduate school to earn a Master’s degree or Ph.D. is advisable, especially if students are interested in going into a specialty field in meteorology.  

So,  besides forecasting the weather in a news broadcast what can you do with a degree in meteorology?  There are plenty of options!  A list put together by the National Severe Storms Laboratory shows the variety of options  available, from working for an airline company to being a research meteorologist!(https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/people/jobs/careers.php).  

• An operational forecaster analyzes weather conditions and issues forecasts or alerts the public of severe weather for their area.
  
• A research meteorologist studies more specific areas of weather like severe weather or climate change. They can also develop tools like radar or weather models to help other meteorologists in their jobs.
  
• A meteorologist in the military makes weather observations and forecasts for missions around the world.
  
• Airlines use meteorologists to help pilots know what the weather will be like when they take-off, land,and while in the air.
  
• Electric companies ask meteorologists if a heat wave is coming so they have enough power ready to run lots of air conditioners.
  
• Road crews ask meteorologists how much snow might be coming so they can make sure they have enough trucks ready.
  
• Meteorologists tell fruit and vegetable farmers to turn their sprinklers on when a cold snap is coming to help protect crops.
  
• Meteorologists work with city managers when their town is in the path of a hurricane, if nearby rivers or streams could flood, or if a tornado is coming.
  
• What if there is a thunderstorm headed for a football stadium full of people? Meteorologists help people in charge of stadiums, arenas, shopping malls and hospitals make critical safety decisions.
  
• Radio and television stations use meteorologists, both behind the scenes and on the air, to analyze weather data and present it to their audience.
  

In addition to these positions , meteorologists are needed to teach the next generation of meteorologists as well.  Deciding to pursue a degree in meteorology is the first step, once you decide to do that, you can narrow your focus by determining where your interests lie.   Do you like  teaching,  doing research or do you prefer  to be on TV and share your knowledge in front of a camera?

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