How to Find a Meteorology Job in Illinois

Meteorologists follow atmospheric conditions to predict the weather.

Meteorologists are scientists that specialize in atmospheric conditions. Although, many people think of meteorologists as the people who provide the weather forecasts on television, there are many other places that hire meteorologists. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 34 percent of meteorologists are employed by the federal government including the National Weather Service. In Illinois, meteorologists work at a variety of locations including colleges, television stations, and for the federal government. If you have the proper education, you can find a meteorology job in Illinois.

Instructions

1. Go to college. To be a meteorologist, you need at least a bachelor's degree. Since you will face competition in this field, you will do better if you have a master's degree or higher in meteorology.

2. Join the American Meteorological Society. Through the society, you can find job listings in Illinois. You can also find a local chapter of the society in Illinois. Attend the meetings and make possible contacts for finding careers.

3. Get certified. The American Meteorological Society offers certification for some meteorologists. Find out if you qualify and become certified, if possible.

4. Apply at the National Weather Service. Go to their website and click on "Career Opportunities" at the bottom of the page. Search through any meteorology jobs that are located in Illinois.

5. Go to a local university and apply. You may have to begin as an assistant but you will gain experience working in meteorology.

6. Create a video or audio of you explaining weather patterns if you are interested in becoming a broadcast meteorologist. Gather up any old broadcast footage you may have, such as if you did an internship while in college.

7. Send a resume and sample of broadcast work to local television and radio stations in Illinois. Remember to try cable channels and public access channels to get your foot in the door.

References

• American Meteorological Society: Local AMS Chapters
• National Weather Service: Careers in Weather
• The Occupational Outlook Handbook: Atmospheric Scientists
• Sky Fire: Careers in Meteorolgy