Fast Facts on Meteorologist Jobs
Meteorologists are scientists who study the Earth's atmosphere. They determine if destructive forces, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, may occur and record, measure and analyze patterns within the atmosphere to make predictions about the weather. Satellite systems, radar detectors and computers are essential to perform their job. Tools to detect humidity, wind and temperature are also necessary. A strong meteorological and scientific background is essential to work in the field.
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Jobs
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The federal government is the largest employer of meteorologists, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It employs 34 percent of meteorologists, most of whom work for the National Weather Service. Few work in television and radio broadcasting; most employees work behind the scenes as researchers, forecasters and weather consultants.
Education
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Atmospheric science is a small field, and few institutions of higher education offer degrees in meteorology. Most jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in meteorology or a similar field. Research jobs in meteorology generally require a Ph.D. in atmospheric science. Closely related degrees include earth science, physics and geography. Courses in statistics, engineering and communications are also necessary.
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Work Setting
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Airports, television stations and radio stations hire meteorologists. Airports hire meteorologists to research and analyze the weather patterns in locations throughout the world. Television stations hire meteorologists to broadcast weather reports live from television studios. Most television stations have a team of meteorologists working together to provide the most accurate weather predictions possible. Radio stations broadcast reports on the air and update listeners regularly, generally providing weather and traffic information together.
Salary
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The salary for meteorologists varies greatly. A meteorologist's pay depends on where he works and who his employer is. For example, a radio meteorologists working for a small local station will have a much lower salary than a television meteorologist working for a big-city news station. A national weather personality will have a much larger salary than someone working for a local station. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for an atmospheric scientist working for a government agency was $93,661 in 2009.
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References
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