1

Surface Weather Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AND High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and a minimum of two (2) years of experience as a qualified weather observer for surface observations at an aviation weather facility.

$61K - $79K/yr

Observe current local and world-wide environmental conditions. Evaluate records and transmit surface weather observations. Operate atmospheric instruments, weather radar and meteorological computer ...

Meteorologist

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$84K - $110K/yr

Continuously tracks Doppler radar, satellite imagery, atmospheric models, river/stream water levels, and surface weather observation stations to identify flood risks due to rain events. * Analyzes ...

Apply Early

... major observational data sources (satellite, radar, surface, radio occultation). * Working knowledge of the software stack for weather and geophysical data: GRIB2, NetCDF, Zarr, and the Pangeo ...

... major observational data sources (satellite, radar, surface, radio occultation). * Working knowledge of the software stack for weather and geophysical data: GRIB2, NetCDF, Zarr, and the Pangeo ...

... major observational data sources (satellite, radar, surface, radio occultation). * Working knowledge of the software stack for weather and geophysical data: GRIB2, NetCDF, Zarr, and the Pangeo ...

... to observe workmanship and conformance to safety regulations * Prepare and submit accurate and ... Must have the ability to work in extreme conditions, including but not limited to changing weather ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Surface Weather Observer information

What is the highest paying meteorologist job?

The highest paying meteorologist jobs are typically in private industry, such as atmospheric scientists working for energy, aerospace, or consulting firms, or senior meteorologists in government agencies like the National Weather Service. Specialized roles requiring advanced degrees, certifications, and experience tend to offer higher salaries, often exceeding six figures annually.

How to become a NWs observer?

To become a Surface Weather Observer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and may require training in meteorology, weather observation techniques, and use of observation tools. Some positions prefer or require certification from the National Weather Service or related agencies, and on-the-job training is common. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are important for this role.

What are Surface Weather Observers?

Surface Weather Observers are professionals responsible for monitoring and recording weather conditions at the Earth's surface. They collect data such as temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, precipitation, and visibility, which is essential for weather forecasting, aviation safety, and climate research. Surface Weather Observers may work at airports, weather stations, or government agencies, and their observations help provide real-time information for meteorologists and the public.

What does a surface weather observer do?

A surface weather observer collects and records weather data at specific locations, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. They often use instruments like thermometers, barometers, and anemometers, and their observations are used for weather forecasting and climate monitoring. The role typically requires attention to detail and may involve working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What is the difference between Surface Weather Observer vs Weather Technician?

AspectSurface Weather ObserverWeather Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires meteorological training or certification, such as a certificate from a weather serviceOften requires technical training or certification in weather instruments and systems
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, observing and recording weather conditions at specific locationsIndoor/outdoor, maintaining and calibrating weather equipment
Employer & IndustryWeather services, government agencies, airportsWeather service providers, research facilities, environmental agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles involving weather observation and data collectionCompared for technical maintenance of weather instruments

Surface Weather Observers primarily focus on observing and recording weather conditions in the field, requiring meteorological knowledge. Weather Technicians maintain and calibrate weather instruments, often working indoors or in controlled environments. Both roles are essential in weather data collection but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

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

To thrive as a Surface Weather Observer, you need a strong background in meteorology, data collection, and observation techniques, often supported by relevant coursework or certification. Familiarity with weather observation instruments, METAR/SPECI coding, and automated weather systems is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurate reporting and team coordination. These competencies ensure precise weather data collection, which is vital for aviation safety, forecasting, and public information.

What are some common challenges faced by Surface Weather Observers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Surface Weather Observers often work in environments where accuracy and timeliness are critical, especially during rapidly changing or severe weather conditions. Common challenges include monitoring multiple weather parameters simultaneously and maintaining concentration during long or overnight shifts. Effective management involves following standardized observation protocols, using reliable equipment, and staying updated through continuous training. Collaborating closely with meteorologists and aviation personnel ensures that observations are communicated swiftly and accurately for safety and operational decision-making.

Do atmospheric scientists get paid well?

Atmospheric scientists, including those working as surface weather observers, typically earn salaries that are competitive within the scientific field, with median annual wages around $90,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, location, and employer, and many roles require specialized training and certifications in meteorology or related disciplines.
More about Surface Weather Observer jobs
What cities are hiring for Surface Weather Observer jobs? Cities with the most Surface Weather Observer job openings:
What states have the most Surface Weather Observer jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Weather Observer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Surface Weather Observer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surface Weather Observer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Surface Weather Observer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Weather Forecaster II

Weather Forecaster II

Cni

Charleston, SC

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

The Weather Forecaster II provides aviation, ship and site weather forecasting services, maintaining responsibility for developing forecasts and preparing weather briefings for pilots and interested parties such as outlying camps, field parties, and stations, as well as any ocean vessels operating in the area of responsibility. This position requires selected individuals to be knowledgeable in all aspects of weather forecasting, including creating weather charts and preparing briefing materials, and perform in a supervisor capacity; demonstrating good problem-solving skills while overseeing daily operations, preparing all required reports, and monitoring the weather office for areas as outlined in the task. In addition, this position observes and records weather conditions used for forecasting and archival purposes.

This position has the potential to deploy to McMurdo Station, Antarctica to conduct work locally. The United States Antarctica Program requires all personnel deploying to Antarctica to pass a physical qualification.

Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc. serves as a holding company with multiple subsidiaries engaged in several lines of business (Technology, Infrastructure & Engineering, Health, Manufacturing, Public Safety, Consulting, and Transportation) for the federal government and commercial enterprises.A portion of our profits is used to support Chickasaw citizens. We are proud to support the economic development and long-term viability of the Chickasaw Nation and its people. CNI offers premium benefits eligible on the first day of hire to full time employees; (Medical - Dental - Vision), Company Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, 401(K) Immediate Vesting, Professional Development Assistance, Legal Aid Assistance Program, Family Planning / Fertility Assistance, Personal Time Off, and Observance of Federal Holidays.

As a federal contractor, CNI is a drug-free workplace and adheres to the Federal Controlled Substance Act.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • A valid USA passport is required and is reimbursable.

  • Must be able to obtain a T1 Clearance through the government customer.

  • Must pass internal background checks.

  • Knowledgeable in all aspects of weather forecasting.

  • Must be able to perform job duties in extreme, cold, dark, work environments.

  • Must pass medical and dental examination prior to deployment; expenses are reimbursable.

  • Ability to follow directions and work independently or with a team.

  • Ability to be reliable in attendance/punctuality.

  • Ability to practice and promote required safety standards.

  • Skilled proficiency conducting audits and utilizing quality management systems.

  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

  • Ability to cooperate and negotiate with teammates and customers to find mutually acceptable solutions.

  • Ability to organize work, set priorities, and determine resource requirements.

  • Organization, problem-solving, resolution and critical thinking skills.

  • Customer service and relationship-building skills.

  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Provides aviation, ship and site weather forecasting services, maintaining responsibility for developing forecasts and preparing weather briefings for pilots and interested parties such as outlying camps, field parties, and stations, as well as ocean vessels operating in the area.

  • Creates weather charts, prepares briefing materials, and performs in a supervisor capacity.

  • Takes, records and disseminates surface weather observations, and completes necessary forms in accordance with Federal, Department of Defense (DOD), and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) guidelines.

  • Records, transmits, and archives METAR/SPECI and synoptic observations in accordance with established procedures and in support of the Global Climate Observing System.

  • Prepares balloon, radiosonde, and ground tracking equipment for use in the upper-air program. Performs the launch and tracking of the rawinsonde package. Evaluates and transmit atmospheric pressure, temperature, relative humidity, and wind direction and speed encoded from the radiosonde flight data.

  • Monitors and reports expendable inventory levels regularly.

  • Develops and publishes timely shift schedules for observing personnel.

  • Trains and recommends personnel for certification as weather observers for McMurdo Station and supported airfields as required.

  • Recommends personnel for decertification when performance dictates. Provides training to personnel that will provide weather observations for the airfields at McMurdo. Provides training to personnel who will provide basic weather information from camps or locations where qualified observers are not posted.

  • Provide quality checks and data validation of observational data.

  • Coordinate with other functions and organizations.

  • Provide input as the observer SME for planning and preparation of operational activities

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Graduate of a DoD meteorology technician course or equivalent civilian course of study leading to a weather observing/forecasting certification and ten (10) years of experience in weather forecasting and operational meteorology including at least three (3) year of experience in airport/airfield weather forecasting in support of an operational weather office.

AND

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and a minimum of two (2) years of experience as a qualified weather observer for surface observations at an aviation weather facility.

Preferred

Ten (10) years of experience in weather forecasting and operational meteorology including at least one (1) year of experience in airport/airfield weather forecasting in support of an operational weather office. Forecasting experience in high latitudes or polar regions. Analytical case study development and publication experience. High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and two (3) years of experience as a qualified weather observer for surface observations at an aviation weather facility.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform successfully the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. Work is primarily performed in an office environment. Regularly required to sit. Regularly required use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms to handle objects and operate tools, computer, and/or controls. Required to speak and hear. Occasionally required to stand, walk and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. May occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Exposed to general office noise with computers printers and light traffic.

This position requires a physical qualification for potential deployment to Antarctica.

EOE including Disability/Vet

CNI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k)
  • Family Planning/Fertility Assistance
  • STD/LTD/Basic Life/AD&D
  • Legal-Aid Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) - (11) Federal Holidays
  • Training and Development Opportunities

Your application submission will be considered for all potential employment opportunities with Chickasaw Nation Industries (CNI).