Atmospheric Scientist

Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Broadcast Meteorologist; Forecaster; General Forecaster; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Meteorologist; Ocean Monitoring and Data Assimilation Scientist; Research Meteorologist; Service Hydrologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist; Weather Forecaster

Tasks

• Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
• Interpret data, reports, maps, photographs, or charts to predict long- or short-range weather conditions, using computer models and knowledge of climate theory, physics, and mathematics.
• Conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.
• Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.
• Broadcast weather conditions, forecasts, or severe weather warnings to the public via television, radio, or the Internet or provide this information to the news media.
• Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.
• Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
• Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.
• Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
• Develop and deliver training on weather topics.
• Prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.
• Analyze climate data sets, using techniques such as geophysical fluid dynamics, data assimilation, or numerical modeling.
• Analyze historical climate information, such as precipitation or temperature records, to help predict future weather or climate trends.
• Consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.
• Speak to the public to discuss weather topics or answer questions.

Knowledge

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Geography
• Computers and Electronics
• English Language
• Communications and Media
• Customer and Personal Service
• Chemistry

Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Science
• Critical Thinking
• Active Learning
• Writing
• Mathematics
• Learning Strategies
• Monitoring

Abilities

• Oral Expression
• Oral Comprehension
• Written Comprehension
• Inductive Reasoning
• Deductive Reasoning
• Written Expression
• Problem Sensitivity
• Speech Clarity
• Information Ordering
• Near Vision
• Speech Recognition
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Flexibility of Closure
• Fluency of Ideas
• Originality
• Number Facility
• Far Vision