Atmospheric and Space Scientists

Loading state data...

Loading state data...

Back to Search
Add to favorites
Career Profile

Atmospheric and Space Scientists

What they do

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.

Also Called: Broadcast Meteorologist, Forecaster, General Forecaster, Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech), Meteorologist, Ocean Monitoring and Data Assimilation Scientist, Research Meteorologist, Service Hydrologist, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Weather Forecaster, Broadcast Meteorologist, Forecaster, General Forecaster, Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech), Meteorologist, Ocean Monitoring and Data Assimilation Scientist, Research Meteorologist, Service Hydrologist, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Weather Forecaster

Job Data & Employment

*National data provided by O*NET & BLS
Compare State data      Compare Metro Area Data   
$53,060
Starting Salary (2025)
$99,070
Median Salary (2025)
0.7%
Projected Job Growth
10,000
Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.
Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
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.
Perform managerial duties, such as creating work schedules, creating or implementing staff training, matching staff expertise to situations, or analyzing performance of offices.
Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Analytical Thinking
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Stress Tolerance
Adaptability/Flexibility
Integrity

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Writing
Active Listening
Science

Expected Knowledge

Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 4

Considerable Preparation Needed

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Bachelor's degree 50%
  • Master's degree 30%
  • Doctoral degree 15%
  • Some college 5%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

Hydrologists
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
Data Scientists
Climate Change Policy Analysts

Add Atmospheric and Space Scientists to your favorites?

Add to favorites
Back to Search  

More Info

Explore 106 major profiles, common career paths and strategies to maximize opportunities.

Visit Site

Search career information in detail by keywords, browse by industry, or via your interests.

Visit Site

Explore career options, find training and education, plan for your job search and find local help and services.

Visit Site

The Occupational Outlook Handbook - browse occupations and resources and explore occupation groups.

Visit Site

The nation's primary source of occupational information. Complete data and information breakdowns for all careers.

Visit Site
*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.