Occupation: Atmospheric and Space Scientists

Atmospheric and Space Scientists

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.

19-2021.00 | 27 tasks | 10 job titles
Reported Job Titles (10)
  • 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
Core Tasks (18)
  • 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.
  • Analyze historical climate information, such as precipitation or temperature records, to help predict future weather or climate trends.
  • Consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.
  • Speak to the public to discuss weather topics or answer questions.
  • Apply meteorological knowledge to issues such as global warming, pollution control, or ozone depletion.
  • Perform managerial duties, such as creating work schedules, creating or implementing staff training, matching staff expertise to situations, or analyzing performance of offices.
  • Measure wind, temperature, and humidity in the upper atmosphere, using weather balloons.
Supplemental Tasks (9)
  • Direct forecasting services at weather stations or at radio or television broadcasting facilities.
  • Collect air samples from planes or ships over land or sea to study atmospheric composition.
  • Teach college-level courses on topics such as atmospheric and space science, meteorology, or global climate change.
  • Design or develop new equipment or methods for meteorological data collection, remote sensing, or related applications.
  • Research the impact of industrial projects or pollution on climate, air quality, or weather phenomena.
  • Conduct wind assessment, integration, or validation studies.
  • Conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions to understand and predict global or regional weather patterns.
  • Estimate or predict the effects of global warming over time for specific geographic regions.
  • Create visualizations to illustrate historical or future changes in the Earth's climate, using paleoclimate or climate geographic information systems (GIS) databases.