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Storm Chaser Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hearst

Part-Time Storm Chaser

Oklahoma City, OK

Part-Time Storm Chaser (Field Weather Coverage) KOCO-TV is looking for a part-time Storm Chaser to join one of our many two-person severe weather chase teams. This is high-pressure, real-time work ...

Hearst

Part-Time Storm Chaser

Oklahoma City, OK

Part-Time Storm Chaser (Field Weather Coverage) KOCO-TV is looking for a part-time Storm Chaser to join one of our many two-person severe weather chase teams. This is high-pressure, real-time work ...

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Storm Chaser information

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$8

$24

$53

How much do storm chaser jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for storm chaser in the United States is $24.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Storm Chaser, you need a solid understanding of meteorology, weather patterns, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in atmospheric sciences or related field. Familiarity with radar systems, GPS devices, weather modeling software, and storm tracking tools is crucial. Strong observational skills, risk assessment, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are important because they enable safe tracking, accurate data collection, and timely reporting of severe weather events.

What are storm chasers?

Storm chasers are individuals who pursue severe weather events, such as tornadoes and thunderstorms, often for scientific research, photography, or media coverage. Their work helps gather valuable data on storms, which can improve weather forecasting and public safety. Storm chasers typically use specialized vehicles and equipment to track and document storms, sometimes working with meteorologists or research organizations. While storm chasing can be thrilling, it is also dangerous and requires thorough knowledge of weather patterns and safety precautions.

What are some typical challenges storm chasers face while working in the field?

Storm chasers often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, rapidly changing storm paths, and long hours on the road, which can make the job physically and mentally demanding. Safety is a constant concern, as chasers must balance the need to gather valuable data with the risks posed by severe weather, such as tornadoes, hail, and lightning. Additionally, storm chasers frequently work in teams, requiring strong communication and coordination skills to ensure safety and effective data collection. It's important to be well-prepared, flexible, and able to adapt quickly to evolving situations in the field.
More about Storm Chaser jobs
What states have the most Storm Chaser jobs? States with the most job openings for Storm Chaser jobs include:
Storm Chaser jobs near you
Infographic showing various Storm Chaser job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,611 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Part-Time Storm Chaser

Hearst Newspapers

Oklahoma City, OK

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Part-Time Storm Chaser (Field Weather Coverage)

KOCO-TV is looking for a part-time Storm Chaser to join one of our many two-person severe weather chase teams. This is high-pressure, real-time work supporting on-air meteorologists during rapidly changing conditions. One team member drives. The other monitors radar, data, and communications. Precision, calm judgment, and ethical decision-making are non-negotiable.

Role Overview
Storm Chasers provide critical, ground-level reports during severe weather events. This position may serve as either the driver or the radar/data operator, depending on assignment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate a vehicle or monitor radar, weather data, and communications from the passenger seat during severe weather.
  • Capture live and recorded video using station-authorized equipment for on-air and digital platforms.
  • Report live on-air observations when directed.
  • Relay accurate, timely storm details to station meteorologists, including severity, movement, and real-time conditions from the field.
  • Monitor weather conditions before and during deployments to anticipate storm development.
  • Adhere strictly to journalistic ethics, safety protocols, and station policies at all times.

Work Schedule

  • No fixed schedule. Hours are dictated by weather conditions.
  • Availability required on short notice when severe weather is forecast.
  • Assignments are made at the direction of station meteorologists or news management.

Important Note
This is not a casual field position. Severe weather coverage is intense, unpredictable, and safety critical. Teamwork, judgment, and professionalism are essential.

Required Qualifications

  • Clean driving record (required for all team members).
  • Strong situational awareness and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Understanding of and commitment to journalistic ethics and accuracy.
  • Ability to follow direction precisely and communicate clearly in fast-moving situations.
  • Willingness to work in all weather conditions.

Values in Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.

Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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