Atmospheric and Space Scientists
Life, Physical, and Social Science
The day-to-day work is gathering weather data from surface and upper-air stations, satellites, and radar, then interpreting maps, charts, and model output to predict short- or long-range conditions. Mathematical and computer models are developed or used for forecasting, and some of the work is research into how weather and climate form. Forecasts and briefings go to the public, news media, industry, or government; severe weather warnings may be broadcast on television, radio, or the internet. Computer programs are sometimes written to collect or present meteorological information. A good fit for people who enjoy reading complex data, applying physics and math to changing conditions, and explaining forecasts in speech and writing.
Typical education: Bachelor’s Degree (4-year)
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$99'070
Median Wage Market Position
$99'070
What you might do
- Interpret maps and readings to forecast weather
- Develop computer models for weather forecasts
- Collect readings from satellites, radar, and stations
- Research the processes that shape weather
- Brief businesses and agencies on expected conditions
- Broadcast forecasts and severe weather warnings
Skills that matter
- Building computer models for forecasts
- Interpreting weather maps and charts
- Predicting short- and long-range conditions
- Collecting data from satellites and radar
- Broadcasting forecasts and weather warnings
- Preparing briefings for industry and government
AI & the future of this role
Forecasting and report generation lean heavily on model output, so AI could handle much of the routine analysis and drafting. Advising on high-stakes weather decisions and integrating messy local conditions remain harder to fully automate.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details