Climatologist Job Description
Included in the genre of atmospheric scientists, climatologists have jobs that Purdue University notes are as "changeable as the weather." Climatologists study climate changes as well as the variations in those changes over time and attempt to interpret how the changes affect earth and its inhabitants. Tools of their trade might include computers for analysis, hiking boots for a research trip to a rain forest or diving gear for studying oceanic contributions to our atmosphere.
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Climatologists as Atmospheric Scientists
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Atmospheric scientists study the atmosphere and its affect on our environment, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS categorizes the operational meteorologist, or weather person, on your local news as a scientist interested in short-term weather forecasting. The climatologist, on the other hand, focuses on climate changes occurring over years, or even centuries. He studies wind, rainfall, temperatures and other relevant data in specific regions or might research climate history across the globe, using his results to make predictions about future weather patterns.
Significance
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Once a climatologist has compiled and researched pertinent data, her interpretation of the results can help farmers determine if the coming season will be colder or wetter than normal and which crops might work best for that season. A builder can use the research to decide on the appropriate air conditioning system for a mall by predicting the average summer temperature for that region. Climatologists also study climate trends to predict droughts or offer information on environmental issues like global warming, how ocean temperatures affect climate and air pollution control.
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Skills and Interests
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Students interested in a career in climatology should show ability in advanced math--including trigonometry and calculus--statistics, meteorology, geography and computer modeling, according to The National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Some interests and skills NASA lists as indicators of possible future climatologists include curiosity about what shapes our surroundings, using maps and patience with details during tasks like filling out forms.
Work Environment
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Defining the typical job environment for a climatologist is difficult. According to Purdue University, he might work for a federal or state government as a weather supervisor or oversee publications regarding climate. Some climatologists work for private companies and provide advice regarding building construction or agricultural concerns. Many climatologists work as college professors and participate in research projects. Generally, a climatologist spends most of his days indoors using sophisticated computer programs relating to weather research and models. Climatologists often work on a team that might include other scientists and engineers.
Education
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Climatologists need the minimum of a bachelor's degree in meteorology or closely related field, according to the BLS. Some positions require a master's degree and research positions typically require a Ph.D. The BLS also notes that a climatologist with a graduate degree is likely to have better job prospects than one with a bachelor's degree.
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References
- Photo Credit gloomy weather background image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com
