Hydrologists work in offices and in the field. Hydrologists study how water moves across and through the Earth’s crust. The below information is based on the 2021 BLS national averages.Please enable javascript to play this video. To become a meterologist, there is quite a bit of education required, however if you are interested in this work then you will find your time at college enjoyable.Įmployment is secure and the salary available for meteorologists is quite good. Meteorology provides an interesting and rewarding career for those that have a passion and interest in natural science and weather phenomenon. The lowest paid 10% earn around $55,000 a year, while the 10% highest paid in the field earn more than $127,000. The median salary for a meteorologist is $85,000.

Some become weather consultants, providing a specialist service to places like airports, or owners of tall buildings, who require their expertise. While many meteorologists start their career in forecasting, many move on to work in research and education later. In the event of a disaster, they may be called in to work unexpectedly. Meteorologists that work in research will have much more predicable hours than forecast meteorologists, who may be required to work evenings and weekends. The type of work a candidate is looking for will have an effect on their place of employment. Some typical duties of a meteorologist include:Īfter finishing college, meteorologists may find work for government departments, private weather prediction firms, in colleges and universities, news stations, or in other research facilities. Many theoretical meteorologists are employed within education, and also teach at colleges as a part of their role. They may be required to travel as a part of their work, or spend time out on the field. This could involve conducting studies into weather patterns, creating new models, and writing papers and reports.

Theoretical meteorologists spend their time involved with research. Their duties involve monitoring a range of testing equipment, analyzing data, and preparing reports. Operation meteorologists are involved in the active side of the job, such as providing forecasts. Meteorologists can be divided into two categories operational and theoretical. Not only is it excellent work experience, but it makes a good addition to your resume, and may even lead to a job later on. Internships are important, and if you have the opportunity you should take them up during your time at college. It’s a good idea at this point to decide on what sector of meteorology you want to work in.įor example, some meteorologists work in television, others in research, while some work on the field.Ĭhoosing elective subjects in complementary can help. This will allow you access to a limited amount of jobs in meteorology, or act as pathway to postgraduate studies in the field.

If you can’t attend one of these schools, your next best option is to major in physics and take as many meteorology subjects as you can. There are only about 20 schools in the country that offer these courses.Ĭompetition is high, and you may also need to move to complete your studies. You’ll need to complete a four year bachelor of science while at college with a major in meteorology. Volunteering with local community groups with an interest in the environment is a good idea. While it’s somewhat unlikely that you could work part-time with meteorologists, you may be able to do some work experience there if your school runs a program like this. You might also like to get some experience at this stage. If you’re still in high school you should take subjects in the sciences, as well as mathematics, and geography.Īcademic skills in mathematics and physics are essential, since you’ll need to make good grades to get a place in college. When you become a meteorologist it’s never too early to start. How long does it take to become a meteorologist?Įducation Requirements to Become a Meteorologist.How much does it cost to become a meteorologist?.These are the top 5 earning states in the field:.Education Requirements to Become a Meteorologist.

Meteorologist average salary