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Atmospheric Scientist

💰 Earn $100K-$141K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 24–48 Month Training

📈 0.7% Job Growth

Passionate about weather? Predict and analyze atmospheric phenomena.
Impact lives by forecasting weather and issuing vital warnings.
Use cutting-edge tech to model and forecast weather patterns.

What Atmospheric Scientists DoInvestigate 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.

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.
Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
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.

Atmospheric Scientists Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationBachelor Degree

Career ProspectsSteady (Staying constant (within 1%))

Training Time2 to 4 years

Job Openings700 Annually

Median Earnings

$117,770 in California

$97,450 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@weathertrevor

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Thinking and problem solving
Working with my hands

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Science

Go Deeper: Atmospheric Scientists Explained

Atmospheric ScientistExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

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