Meteorologist

Science, Technology & IT

ANZSCO ID 234913

Summary

Meteorologists study the physics and dynamics of the atmosphere to increase understanding of weather and climate, and to forecast changes in the weather and long-term climatic trends.

Employment Pathway

A bachelor degree in science majoring in mathematics, physics or a related field is needed to work as a Meteorologist. Some workers have a postgraduate qualification.

Top Skills Required

Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times
Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance
Reading Comprehension - Understanding the meaning of written sentences and paragraphs
Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems
Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems

Key tasks

Studies composition, structure and dynamics of the atmosphere, investigating the direction and speed of air movements, air pressure and temperature, humidity and other phenomena.
Investigates the nature of solar and terrestrial (infra-red) radiations and effects on the atmosphere.
Studies physical nature and properties of solid and liquid particles suspended in the atmosphere, investigating them as the process of cloud formation, precipitation and electrical disturbances.
Studies data on atmospheric conditions obtained to prepare weather maps and forecasts for advice to aviation, shipping, agriculture and the general public.
Studies climatic conditions by analysing meteorological observations made over extended periods of time, and investigates past and possible future fluctuations in climate.
Employs balloons, rockets and artificial earth satellites and such techniques as spectroscopy, hygrometry, daylight and infra-red photography, radar and radio to obtain data on atmospheric conditions, and directs processing of the data.
May specialise in a particular area of meteorological science.

Facts about this occupation

3.5% Growth

80% Full-time Share

$2,136 Avg Pay/Wk

680 Workers

42 years Avg Age

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