Meteorologists are atmospheric scientists who use science and math to study, understand, and predict weather and climate patterns. They may forecast daily weather, conduct atmospheric research, advise private clients, or teach at universities. The median annual salary is $97,450 as of May 2024, with 1% projected employment growth through 2034. Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science or related field.
Weather affects every aspect of our lives-from daily decisions about what to wear to critical agricultural planning and emergency preparedness. Meteorologists are the scientists who help us understand, predict, and prepare for atmospheric conditions. Whether you're considering a career in meteorology or exploring options in environmental science, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of what meteorologists do, where they work, educational requirements, and career prospects in this specialized field.
Meteorology is the study of the atmosphere. Meteorologists, a specialization of atmospheric scientists, use science and math to understand and predict weather and climate. They also study how atmospheric and weather conditions affect the Earth and its human inhabitants.
What Does a Meteorologist Do?
Meteorologists may work on daily weather forecasting, conduct atmospheric research, teach, broadcast the weather, or advise clients for private meteorological companies. The field offers diverse specializations, each requiring different skill sets and educational backgrounds.
Weather Forecasters
Using sophisticated computer models and data collected from around the world, weather forecasters tailor forecasts to their own local areas. While we often think of broadcasters, there are many more meteorologists who work behind the scenes, often for government agencies like the National Weather Service.
There's also a growing number of private sector meteorologists working for companies that specialize in providing highly specific information on challenging weather events. Clients may include power providers concerned about demand during a heat spell, importers of agricultural products, and sporting associations concerned about weather during major events. Some airlines even have their own meteorology departments. These specialists may also advise companies and governments on the best locations for wind farms or other weather-dependent infrastructure.
Atmospheric Researchers
Atmospheric researchers study the workings of the atmosphere to better understand how it functions and how it's interconnected with our planet's waters. This connection often leads atmospheric researchers to work in tandem with oceanographers, hydrologists, environmental scientists, physicists, and mathematicians to collect and interpret data and study atmospheric phenomena. Different types of scientists work together to study globally-connected, complex issues like climate change and to predict its effects on human beings and other species.
Climatologists
Climatologists study historical climate patterns to understand long-term weather patterns and predict future climatic shifts. Most climatologists study global warming and climate change. They may use historical records in the form of written accounts, or shifts "recorded" in ancient ice or sediments. Paleoclimatologists who study prehistoric climate conditions often do fieldwork to retrieve such physical evidence.
Learn more about climatology.
Forensic Meteorologists
Forensic meteorologists investigate and provide information on weather conditions at specific moments in the recent past. Their work provides insight into how weather may have played a role in a traffic accident, fire, or other event having monetary or legal ramifications. Forensic meteorologists may testify in court as expert witnesses.
Educators and Technology Specialists
Meteorologists may become faculty and teach at colleges or universities. They may work in undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. programs, perform research, and direct the research of graduate students. Some teach atmospheric science classes that supplement the offerings of related science programs. Studying meteorology is also good training for becoming a general science teacher at the high school level.
Some meteorologists work on improving weather-related technology, such as data collection instruments and computer models. They may also design informative digital weather displays or develop software for analyzing atmospheric data.
Where Does a Meteorologist Work?
Major Employers
The U.S. government is the largest employer of meteorologists and atmospheric scientists. Many work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which also oversees the National Weather Service. NOAA has large research labs in Miami, Florida, Boulder, Colorado, and Norman, Oklahoma. However, many NOAA meteorologists work at weather stations dispersed across the country. Their size varies; some weather stations employ only a single meteorologist.
Meteorologists also work within the armed forces and for the Department of Defense as civilian contractors. NASA conducts atmospheric research at labs in Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland. The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado, is another major employer. While the Center conducts various kinds of research, it's deeply involved in studying climate change.
Private companies are a fast-growing source of employment for meteorologists. Consulting firms, airlines, energy companies, agricultural businesses, and television stations are examples of private employers seeking meteorological expertise.
Work Settings
The majority of meteorologists work indoors in weather stations, office environments, or laboratories. However, some jobs may involve occasional outdoor work. University and government researchers may do field work to collect data or observe weather events firsthand. Broadcast meteorologists may report on weather events from the field during severe weather coverage. Research meteorologists studying phenomena like tornadoes or hurricanes may travel to observe these events up close or work from aircraft.
Schedules and Work-Life Balance
While most meteorologists work full-time, they often don't keep the usual 9-to-5 workday. Entry-level forecasters and field station meteorologists typically work rotating shifts to provide continuous weather coverage, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Weather doesn't follow business hours, so 24/7 monitoring requires round-the-clock staffing. These positions may also require extended hours during severe weather events like hurricanes or major winter storms.
Broadcast meteorologists may work evenings and weekends to cover news programming schedules. Research meteorologists and those in consulting or management positions often maintain more traditional schedules, though researchers may work extended hours on particular projects or during field campaigns.
Remote work opportunities have increased for some meteorology roles, particularly those focused on data analysis, modeling, and consulting. However, operational forecasting and broadcast positions typically require on-site presence.
Meteorologist Salary and Compensation
The median annual wage for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists, was $97,450 as of May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $49,990, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $160,710.
Salaries vary significantly by sector, experience level, geographic location, and specialization. The federal government, which employs the most meteorologists, typically offers competitive salaries along with comprehensive benefits packages. Research and development positions, private consulting, and specialized forecasting services often command higher salaries. Entry-level positions generally start in the $50,000-$65,000 range, while experienced meteorologists in specialized roles or management positions can earn well into six figures.
Broadcast meteorologists' salaries vary widely depending on market size, with major metropolitan markets offering significantly higher compensation than smaller markets. Private sector meteorologists working for airlines, energy companies, or weather consulting firms may earn premium salaries based on the critical nature of accurate forecasting for business operations.
What Is the Job Demand for Meteorologists?
Employment of atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists, is projected to grow 1 percent from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 700 openings for atmospheric scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
New types of computer models have vastly improved the accuracy of forecasts, allowing atmospheric scientists to tailor forecasts to specific purposes. This supports demand for atmospheric scientists as businesses require more specialized weather information. Industries such as agriculture, renewable energy, transportation, and retail increasingly rely on detailed weather forecasts to optimize operations and reduce weather-related losses.
The private sector shows the strongest growth potential. Weather consulting firms, agricultural technology companies, and renewable energy developers need meteorologists who can provide highly specialized forecasting and analysis. Climate change concerns are also driving demand for climatologists and atmospheric researchers who can help organizations understand and prepare for long-term climate shifts.
Education Requirements
Meteorologists usually need a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science or a closely related field that's specific to atmospheric phenomena. Degrees in physics, chemistry, or geoscience may be adequate for certain positions. Aspiring meteorologists typically study:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics (including calculus and differential equations)
- Computer Programming and Data Science
- Atmospheric Dynamics and Thermodynamics
- Weather Analysis and Forecasting
Since most graduate programs don't require a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science for admission, degrees in math, physics, and engineering provide good preparation for graduate study. The National Weather Service requires at least 24 semester hours of meteorology courses for operational forecasting positions.
Research positions usually require at least a master's degree, though they often require a doctorate. University faculty positions and advanced research roles at national laboratories typically require a Ph.D. in atmospheric science or a related field. Graduate programs allow for specialization in areas such as climate modeling, severe weather analysis, atmospheric chemistry, or climate change research.
Other Degrees Related to Meteorology
Certifications and Professional Development
While not always required, professional certifications can enhance career prospects and credibility, particularly in broadcast and consulting meteorology. The American Meteorological Society (AMS) offers two primary certifications:
The Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) credential is designed for television and radio meteorologists. It requires meeting specific education requirements, demonstrating on-air communication skills, and passing an examination. This certification is increasingly expected by television stations in larger markets and demonstrates both scientific knowledge and communication ability.
The Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) designation is intended for meteorologists who provide services to clients in business, legal, or government sectors. Candidates must meet education requirements, demonstrate several years of professional experience, and pass rigorous examinations. This certification is highly valued in forensic meteorology and private consulting.
Continuing education is essential in meteorology. Rapid advances in computer modeling, satellite technology, and data analysis require meteorologists to continually update their skills. Professional development opportunities include conferences hosted by the AMS and other professional organizations, workshops on new forecasting tools, and training in emerging technologies like machine learning applications for weather prediction.
Professional Organizations and Resources
The American Meteorological Society (AMS) is the foremost professional association for meteorologists. The Society publishes journals, holds annual conferences, trains teachers, and offers certifications for broadcast and consulting meteorologists.
The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) is a federation of professional organizations within the geosciences. Atmospheric scientists may be interested in exploring their research areas from an integrated perspective through this forum. AGI allows meteorologists to network not only with others in the field, but also with earth scientists from related disciplines studying associated topics, such as oceanographers and hydrologists. AGI also provides information on career trends, news, and publications.
Recommended Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a PhD to become a meteorologist?
No, most weather forecasters only need a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science or a related field. PhDs are primarily required for research positions at universities or national laboratories, and for faculty positions at universities. Broadcast meteorologists typically have bachelor's degrees and may pursue professional certification from the American Meteorological Society rather than advanced degrees.
What's the difference between a meteorologist and a climatologist?
Meteorologists focus on short-term weather patterns and forecasting, typically analyzing atmospheric conditions over hours to weeks. Climatologists study long-term climate trends and historical weather patterns over years, decades, or centuries. Climatologists often specialize in climate change research and use historical data-including ice cores, tree rings, and sediment records-to understand past climate conditions and predict future climatic shifts.
Do meteorologists only work for TV stations?
No, broadcast meteorology represents just one career path. The majority of meteorologists work for government agencies like NOAA, the National Weather Service, or the Department of Defense. Others work in private consulting firms, for airlines or energy companies, in agricultural technology, or conduct research at universities and national laboratories. Private sector opportunities are growing faster than government positions.
Can I become a meteorologist with a degree in physics or math?
Yes, degrees in physics, chemistry, mathematics, or engineering can qualify you for meteorology positions, especially at the graduate level. Many graduate atmospheric science programs accept students from these related fields. However, you'll likely need to take additional atmospheric science coursework. The National Weather Service requires specific meteorology coursework for operational forecasting positions, so check the requirements for your intended career path.
What's the job market like for meteorologists?
The field is projected to grow 1% between 2024 and 2034, slower than average for all occupations. However, approximately 700 job openings are expected annually due to retirements and career changes. Competition for positions can be strong, particularly for broadcast meteorology jobs in major markets. The strongest growth is in the private sector, where specialized forecasting services are in increasing demand from agriculture, energy, transportation, and other weather-sensitive industries.
Key Takeaways
- Diverse Career Paths: Meteorologists work as forecasters, researchers, climatologists, forensic specialists, and educators, each with distinct daily responsibilities and work environments.
- Competitive Compensation: Median salary of $97,450 annually as of May 2024, with experienced specialists in private sector roles or research positions earning significantly more.
- Government Dominance: Federal government remains the largest employer through NOAA and the National Weather Service, though private sector opportunities are growing faster.
- Education Flexibility: A bachelor's degree in atmospheric science is standard for forecasting positions, while research roles require master's or doctoral degrees. Physics, chemistry, and mathematics degrees can provide pathways into the field.
- Non-Traditional Schedules: Entry-level forecasters typically work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to provide 24/7 weather coverage, with extended hours common during severe weather events.
Ready to pursue a career in atmospheric science? Explore accredited meteorology and atmospheric science degree programs that align with your career goals and interests.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists, reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.
