CFChooseField
Science

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.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Atmospheric and Space Scientists
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Median pay

$97,450
Median annual pay for Atmospheric and Space Scientists.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

0.7%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

700
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

9,400
Estimated U.S. employment for Atmospheric and Space Scientists in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

+100
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

Bachelor's degree
Typical education needed to enter Atmospheric and Space Scientists.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Reading Comprehension
  2. 2Active Learning
  3. 3Active Listening
  4. 4Critical Thinking
  5. 5Science
  6. 6Speaking

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Mathematics
  2. 2Physics
  3. 3Geography
  4. 4Computers and Electronics
  5. 5English Language
  6. 6Communications and Media

Abilities

  1. 1Oral Expression
  2. 2Inductive Reasoning
  3. 3Oral Comprehension
  4. 4Written Comprehension
  5. 5Deductive Reasoning
  6. 6Problem Sensitivity

Career interests

  1. 1Investigative
  2. 2Realistic
  3. 3Conventional
  4. 4Artistic
  5. 5Enterprising
  6. 6Social

Work styles

  1. 1Attention to Detail
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Intellectual Curiosity
  4. 4Achievement Orientation
  5. 5Tolerance for Ambiguity
  6. 6Adaptability

Work activities

  1. 1Working with Computers
  2. 2Analyzing Data or Information
  3. 3Getting Information
  4. 4Processing Information
  5. 5Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  6. 6Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others

Work context

  1. 1E-Mail
  2. 2Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  3. 3Spend Time Sitting
  4. 4Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  5. 5Telephone Conversations
  6. 6Freedom to Make Decisions

Representative tasks

  • 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.

Software and tools

Microsoft Office software · in demandMicrosoft Outlook · hot technologyMicrosoft Windows · hot technologyMicrosoft PowerPoint · hot technologyPython · hot technologyMicrosoft Excel · hot technologyMicrosoft Access · hot technologyR · hot technologySAS · hot technologyLinux · hot technologyIBM SPSS Statistics · hot technologyStructured query language SQL · hot technology

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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