Atmospheric and Space Scientists

What the job really is

Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.

At a glance

• Sector: Life, Physical & Social Science
• O*NET-SOC code: 19-2021
• O*NET job zone: 4 — considerable preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• 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.
• Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
• Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.
• Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
• Develop and deliver training on weather topics.
• Prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.
• Analyze climate data sets, using techniques such as geophysical fluid dynamics, data assimilation, or numerical modeling.

Tools and technology

Adobe Photoshop, C++, Facebook, IBM SPSS Statistics, Linux, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• 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

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 4 (considerable preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

Browse the verified job sources directory, or explore more occupations.

Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Atmospheric and Space Scientists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.