Meteorologist

Working Schedule

Meteorologists often work full-time, and those in broadcasting or aviation may work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, or holidays to cover major weather events. Research meteorologists typically have more standard lab or office schedules, while field scientists may travel to collect data or study storms firsthand.

Typical Duties

• Collect and analyze atmospheric data from satellites, radar, and weather stations.
• Use mathematical models and computer simulations to predict future weather conditions.
• Prepare and communicate weather reports to the public or specific industries.
• Issue warnings for severe weather such as hurricanes, floods, or heatwaves.
• Research long-term climate trends and environmental changes.
• Maintain weather instruments and ensure data accuracy.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and emergency planners.

Additional Responsibilities

• Specialize in areas such as aviation, marine, broadcast, or climate meteorology.
• Train junior staff or interns on forecasting techniques.
• Contribute to scientific research and publish studies.
• Present findings at conferences or in academic journals.
• Work with environmental agencies to plan for climate adaptation.

A meteorologist’s day begins early—often by reviewing data from satellites and weather stations around the world. They analyze maps, computer models, and radar images to spot patterns and prepare forecasts.

Those in broadcasting spend time scripting and recording weather segments, while others issue official weather warnings or brief pilots on flight conditions. During severe weather, meteorologists may work long hours monitoring real-time developments and updating alerts.

Researchers might spend their day coding models, analyzing long-term data, or studying atmospheric chemistry. Every day brings new challenges, from predicting afternoon thunderstorms to studying global climate shifts.

Soft Skills

• Analytical and critical thinking
• Problem-solving and curiosity
• Clear communication (especially under pressure)
• Attention to detail
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Adaptability to fast-changing data
• Dedication and public service mindset

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of meteorological and climate modeling software
• Data analysis and statistical programming (Python, R, MATLAB)
• Radar and satellite interpretation
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Weather observation equipment operation
• Strong math and physics background
• Computer programming and simulation modeling

• Broadcast Meteorologist – Delivers daily weather forecasts to the public on TV, radio, or online.
• Operational Meteorologist – Provides forecasts and alerts for industries such as aviation, military, or energy.
• Climatologist – Studies long-term atmospheric trends and climate change impacts.
• Research Meteorologist – Conducts experiments and develops models to improve forecasting accuracy.
• Hydrometeorologist – Focuses on rainfall, floods, and water cycle impacts.
• Forensic Meteorologist – Analyzes past weather events for legal or insurance cases.
• Environmental Meteorologist – Examines air pollution, atmospheric chemistry, and human impacts on weather.

• Government agencies (NOAA, NASA, or National Weather Service)
• TV and radio broadcasting networks
• Research institutions and universities
• Military and defense organizations
• Aviation and aerospace companies
• Environmental and consulting firms
• Energy, agriculture, and transportation industries

Meteorology can be unpredictable—literally! Long, irregular hours and high-pressure deadlines are common, especially during severe storms or disasters. Forecasting errors can have serious consequences, so the work demands precision, focus, and accountability.

Field meteorologists may face extreme conditions when collecting data. Broadcast meteorologists must perform live on camera, sometimes covering dangerous weather events.

Still, for those who love science, nature, and helping others, few jobs are as exciting—or as impactful—as predicting the weather.

“For me, forecasting isn’t just about predicting the weather—it’s about saving lives and helping people make better decisions.” — Dr. Jenni Evans, Professor of Meteorology, Penn State University

Meteorology is becoming increasingly data-driven. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and supercomputing now play major roles in improving forecast accuracy.

Climate change research is expanding career opportunities in environmental policy, sustainability, and risk management. Demand for meteorologists is also growing in renewable energy sectors, aviation safety, and insurance analytics.

Remote sensing technology and drones are changing how atmospheric data is collected, while social media allows forecasters to reach audiences instantly.

People in this career often enjoy watching thunderstorms, tracking typhoons, or reading about space and nature. They were curious about why the sky changes color, how clouds form, or what causes lightning. Many loved science fairs, math challenges, or using weather apps to track storms. They probably had a scientific mindset, loved solving puzzles, and enjoyed explaining things to others—all skills that make great meteorologists.