What is a weather observer and how to become one

Key steps to become a weather observer

1. Explore weather observer education requirements

   Most common weather observer degrees

   Bachelor's

   55.9 %

   Associate

   20.2 %

   High School Diploma

   12.2 %

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2. Start to develop specific weather observer skills

   Skills	Percentages
   DOD	17.71%
   Federal Aviation Administration	15.14%
   Radar	10.39%
   Air Traffic Control	6.45%
   Data Quality Control	5.94%

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3. Complete relevant weather observer training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New weather observers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a weather observer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real weather observer resumes.

4. Research weather observer duties and responsibilities

   • Assist in taking patient medical history and managing clinical patients and participate in medical team discussions regarding patient treatment plans.
   • Collect and plot coordinates using GPS units.
   • Answer requests for technical information regarding regional products from field meteorologists, DOD customers, and other users.
   • Prepare and release radiosondes, collect and disseminate upper air data using GPS navigational equipment and RRS software.

5. Apply for weather observer jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a weather observer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams