Meteorologist
Also known as: marine meteorologist, atmospheric research analyst, atmospheric analyst, meteorology scientist, meteorology analyst, atmospheric researcher
About this occupation
Meteorologists study climate processes, measure and predict weather patterns and provide consultancy services to a variety of weather information users. They work out models for weather forecasting, develop instruments to collect meteorological data and compile statistics and databases.
Essential skills and knowledge
- use meteorological tools to forecast meteorological conditions
- apply scientific methods
- review meteorological forecast data
- meteorology
- perform scientific research
- use specialised computer models for weather forecasting
- execute analytical mathematical calculations
- climatology
- carry out meteorological research
- mathematics
- apply statistical analysis techniques
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Atmospheric and Space Scientists (O*NET 19-2021.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
- 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.
- Typical education (US)
- Bachelor's Degree
- Preparation
- Job Zone 4 of 5
- Interests
- Investigative, Realistic, Conventional
Top skills: Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Speaking, Science, Critical Thinking, Active Learning
US median pay: US$99,070 a year (2025), 10,000 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Subjects this work relies on
How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).
- Mathematics or StatisticsO*NET: MathematicsVery important (4.4)
- PhysicsO*NET: PhysicsVery important (4.4)
- GeographyO*NET: GeographyVery important (4.4)
- Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsVery important (4.2)
- English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageVery important (3.8)
- Media StudiesO*NET: Communications and MediaImportant (3.2)
- Environmental ScienceO*NET: Biology + GeographyImportant (3.1)
- ChemistryO*NET: ChemistryImportant (3.0)
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Preparation needed
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
- Most common education (US)
- Bachelor's Degree
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Related occupations
Occupations O*NET links to this one by similar work, skills and knowledge.
- Hydrologists
- Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
- Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
- Data Scientists
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
- Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
- Climate Change Policy Analysts
- Geodetic Surveyors
- Geographers
- Astronomers
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.