Types of Jobs Available for a Meteorologist
The word meteorology is derived from the Greek word meteoros, meaning "high in the sky" and meteorologists spend a lot of time gazing up. Meteorologists seek to explain and predicate observable weather events. These events are influenced by factors such as temperature, air pressure and water vapor, and how they interact over time. Meteorology has applications in many diverse fields.
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National Weather Service
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The National Weather Service provides official weather forecasts for the United States. It is one of the six scientific agencies that make up the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Through a collection of national and regional centers, it provides forecasts and warnings about weather, marine, fire and aviation conditions. Meteorologists are employed by the National Weather Service to conduct research, analyze reports and publish information.
Military
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All branches of the military employ meteorologists, although most vacancies arise in the Air Force and Navy. Their forecasting abilities influence planning of combat maneuvers, the composition of support services to front-line troops, and the use of missiles. Positions within the military usually have the best benefits of all sectors of industry a meteorologist may work in.
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Media
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Meteorologists work in TV and radio media outlets. They work behind the scenes synthesizing forecast data -- often from the National Weather Service -- and formulating presentation packages. Some present the data to the public. Increasingly, meteorologists employed in TV are using digital technologies to present weather forecasts.
Teaching
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Meteorologists can also pursue a career in academia. Employment opportunities can be found throughout the education system, from positions as high school science teachers to professors in universities. Generally, the higher the degree a meteorologist has, the more advanced the position he can attain. For instance, a meteorologist requires a doctoral degree to teach and conduct research in universities.
Private Companies
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Some meteorologists pursue a career as a consultant to private enterprise. Weather concerns impact upon the fortunes of companies in fields as diverse as agriculture, air traffic management, water provision and the merchant navy. Meteorologists can be hired directly by a company or work through a consulting firm. Consulting work does not have the structured salary progression of other career paths, although, depending on performance, the rewards might be higher.
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References
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