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Forecaster Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Demand/Forecast Planner 3 Job Type: Contract Job Location: Sunnyvale, CA Work Schedule: Onsite Pay Rate: $68 on W2 Description: We are looking for team members with very strong analytical skill sets ...

Demand/Forecast Planner III Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Contract Compensation: $60 - $68.50 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Responsibilities * Lead/participate in cross-functional team meetings/ SIOP ...

Demand/Forecast Planner III Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Contract Compensation: $60 - $68.50 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Responsibilities * Lead/participate in cross-functional team meetings/ SIOP ...

Demand/Forecast Planner III Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Contract Compensation: $60 - $68.50 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Responsibilities * Lead/participate in cross-functional team meetings/ SIOP ...

Demand/Forecast Planner III Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Contract Compensation: $60 - $68.50 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Responsibilities * Lead/participate in cross-functional team meetings/ SIOP ...

Demand/Forecast Planner III Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Contract Compensation: $60 - $68.50 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Responsibilities * Lead/participate in cross-functional team meetings/ SIOP ...

Demand/Forecast Planner III Location: Sunnyvale, CA Type: Contract Compensation: $60 - $68.50 Work Model: Onsite - onsite Responsibilities * Lead/participate in cross-functional team meetings/ SIOP ...

Showing results 41-60

Forecaster information

See California salary details

$46.4K

$64.5K

$111.5K

How much do forecaster jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for forecaster in California is $64,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $62,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forecaster?

Forecasters are professionals who analyze data and use models to predict future events or trends, most commonly related to weather, economics, or sales. They interpret information from various sources to provide accurate and timely predictions that help organizations and individuals make informed decisions. Forecasters often work with advanced technology and statistical tools to improve the reliability of their forecasts. Their work is essential in industries such as meteorology, finance, supply chain management, and emergency planning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forecaster, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forecaster, you need strong analytical skills, statistical knowledge, and typically a degree in meteorology, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with forecasting software, data modeling tools, and data visualization systems is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication help forecasters interpret data accurately and present findings clearly. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable forecasts that inform decision-making and help organizations or the public plan effectively.

How does a forecaster typically collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate predictions?

Forecasters often work closely with teams such as operations, sales, and supply chain to gather relevant data and align on business objectives. Regular meetings and data-sharing sessions help ensure that forecasts are based on the most current information and that all departments understand the implications of predicted trends. This cross-functional collaboration is essential for producing reliable forecasts and for quickly adapting to unexpected changes. Building strong relationships with other departments also helps Forecasters advocate for necessary adjustments to strategies based on their analyses.

What is the difference between Forecaster vs Data Analyst?

AspectForecasterData Analyst
Required credentialsBachelor's degree in statistics, economics, or related field; often some certification in forecasting methodsBachelor's degree in data science, statistics, or related field; certifications like Microsoft Certified Data Analyst are common
Work environmentFinancial institutions, government agencies, or corporations focusing on predictive modelingVarious industries including marketing, finance, healthcare, analyzing data sets to derive insights
Employer usageUsed to predict trends, sales, or economic indicatorsUsed to interpret data, generate reports, and support decision-making

While both roles involve working with data, forecasters primarily focus on predicting future trends using statistical models, whereas data analysts analyze existing data to provide insights. The roles often overlap, but forecasters are more specialized in predictive modeling, especially in finance and economics, while data analysts have a broader scope in data interpretation across industries.

How do you become a forecaster?

To become a forecaster, typically a bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in data analysis and weather modeling, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Broadcast Meteorologist credential can enhance job prospects. Proficiency with forecasting tools and strong communication skills are also important for success in this role.

How much money do forecasters make?

The average salary for a forecaster varies depending on experience, industry, and location, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level forecasters may earn less, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Many forecasters work in fields like meteorology, finance, or economics, often using data analysis tools and models to make predictions.

Is a forecaster the same as a meteorologist?

A forecaster is a type of meteorologist who specializes in predicting weather conditions using data analysis and weather models. While all meteorologists can forecast weather, not all forecasters have the same level of training or certification, and the roles may vary by employer. Both typically require knowledge of meteorology, weather tools, and sometimes certification from relevant professional organizations.
Infographic showing various Forecaster job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,525 per year, or $31 per hour.

Vice President, Planning and Forecasting (COE Lead)

Universal Music Group

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Universal Music Group rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 78 rated media


Job description

We are UMG, the Universal Music Group. We are the world's leading music company. In everything we do, we are committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship. We own and operate a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music to delight and entertain fans around the world.
How we LEAD:
We are currently seeking an accomplished Vice President, Planning and Forecasting to drive transformation of UMG's enterprise forecasting capabilities. The Vice President, Planning and Forecasting will lead the design, build, and operation of a new Center of Excellence (COE) for Forecasting and Planning. This role will be instrumental in transforming enterprise forecasting capabilities across Universal Music Group's global organization, introducing modern, driver-based planning frameworks and enabling scalable, data-driven decision-making.
This leader will partner closely with Finance, Strategy, and Business Unit leaders to standardize planning processes, enhance forecast accuracy, and embed advanced tools and methodologies across the organization, including AI/ML-enabled forecasting tools.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in financial planning, forecasting methodologies, and driver-based modeling, along with hands-on experience implementing and governing enterprise planning tools such as Anaplan, Onestream, Pigment or custom builds. Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including comfort with AI/ML forecasting approaches, are essential, as is the ability to translate complex modeling concepts into practical tools and to drive their adoption across the business.
How you'll CREATE:
  • Driver-based forecasting: Develop and maintain driver-based forecast models for revenue lines and cost categories, linking operational drivers to outcomes
  • AI/ML-enabled use cases: Shape centralized forecasting use cases to support profit centers and senior leadership, reducing manual bottom-up effort and improving forecast accuracy
  • Scenario modeling & forecasting improvement: Own and evolve scenario modeling tools; continuously improve forecasting methodologies and approaches (e.g., leveraging ML models, next-gen tooling) to enhance accuracy
  • Planning tool, data & logic governance: Govern PBF tools, planning data and logic across profit and cost centers; drive consistency in how forecasting data is captured and tagged
  • Tool training & adoption: Develop training materials, train divisional FP&A teams on tool usage, and drive consistent adoption
  • Continuous tool improvement: Fields enhancement requests from users, maintain and prioritize tool backlog, and partner with CDAO to develop new capabilities
  • Cross Functional Partnership: Collaborate with Corp Controllership on shared data foundation between actuals and forecasts to avoid duplication and ensure reconcilability. Partner with CIO and CDAO on PBF tool modernization and platform implementation to power an AI-enabled forecasting and reporting infrastructure. Collaborate Senior Vice President - Strategic Finance & Planning Work to transform the Planning and Forecasting cadence and processes. Work with BI & Analytics COE to align planning logic and driver definitions
  • Team leadership: Build, Lead and mentor a high-performing Global Forecasting COE

Bring your VIBE:
  • 12-15+ years of experience in FP&A, corporate finance, or strategic planning
  • Deep expertise in financial planning, forecasting methodologies, and driver-based modeling
  • Experience implementing and governing enterprise planning tools (e.g., Anaplan, OneStream, custom builds)
  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including comfort with AI/ML forecasting approaches
  • Translate complex modeling concepts into practical tools
  • Experience driving tool adoption
  • This role is office-based

Perks Playlist:
Join an entrepreneurial, global organization where authenticity, boldness, creativity, connection, drive, and insight aren't just values-they're how we work every day. Here are some of the ways we support you along the way (and just a few of the benefits we offer):
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Including 100% coverage for out-patient in-network mental health services
  • Fertility coverage for eligible medical plan participants
  • Wellbeing reimbursements for fitness classes, spa treatments, meal services, travel, and so much more (up to $720/year)
  • Student Loan Repayment Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
  • 401(k) with 100% immediate vesting on the first 5% of your contributions, plus an additional UMG contribution

A variety of ways to prioritize much-needed time away from work including:
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) for exempt employees
  • 3-weeks PTO for non-exempt employees
  • 2-weeks paid Winter Break
  • 10 Company Holidays (including Juneteenth and Wellbeing Day)
  • Summer Fridays (between Memorial Day and Labor Day)
  • Generous paid parental leave for every type of parent

Check out our full overview of benefits on the Perks Playlist page of the career site.
Disclaimer: This job description only provides an overview of job responsibilities that are subject to change.
Universal Music Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an E-Verify employer in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah.
Please note, UMG is not enrolled in E-Verify in California and New York, and cannot support employment of candidates whose employer must enroll in E-Verify, for example candidates on STEM-OPT.
For more information, please click on the following links.
E-Verify Participation Poster: English / Spanish
E-Verify Right to Work Poster: English | Spanish
Job Category:
Finance & Accounting
Salary Range:
$ 181,650 - $365,000
The actual base salary offered depends on a variety of factors, which may include, as applicable, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. All candidates are encouraged to apply.

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