What is a meteorologist?
As a meteorologist, you’ll provide short and long-term weather forecasts. You can choose to specialise in weather forecasting or in research. In addition to providing weather predictions for the general public, as a weather forecaster, you’ll also provide predictions for organisations like the aviation industry, the government, sea fishing industries, and the armed forces.
Imagine being able to say you contributed to the weather forecast! If you’re more interested in research, meteorologist researchers design models to improve the accuracy of forecasts and monitor changes in the climate. This research is used to give weather warnings, or to highlight the dangers of global warming and climate change.
What are the typical responsibilities of a meteorologist?
Day-to-day responsibilities differ depending on whether you’re interested in forecasting or research. As a weather forecaster, typical responsibilities include: collecting data from satellite images and weather stations, measuring the air pressure, temperature, humidity and wind speed, forecasting the weather by analysing research and using computer programming, and relaying the forecasts to the general public and key industries.
As a researcher, you’ll spend your time fine-tuning computer forecasting models, using research to predict extreme weather like floods or blizzards, studying weather patterns and changes in the overall climate, and understanding how the weather affects the spread of disease and pollution.
How much do meteorologists earn?
Trainee operational meteorologists begin with a starting salary of £20,000. As you gain experience, you can expect to earn £25,000-£35,000. If you gain a management position, you can earn from £38,000 to more than £60,000.
How can I become a meteorologist?
To become a meteorologist, you’ll need a degree in the STEM field. To become a researcher, you’ll need a postgraduate degree (master’s or PhD) in a meteorology-related subject. If you’re interested in a career with the Met Office, the UK’s national weather service provider, you’ll need good results in A-Level/AS-Level Maths or Physics, a degree in the STEM field, and a demonstrable interest in the weather. Such an interest can be proven via volunteering or completing a work placement.
The Met Office offers work placements for A-level students, university students and graduates. The Royal Meteorological Society also offers a student membership, which allows you to network with professionals, attend conferences, or volunteer as an editor or student mentor.