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Weather Observer Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

The ATAC Weather Observer is responsible for the safe operations of all aspects of aviation safety to include the runway and helipad's navigational aids are maintained to FAA standards. Must be able ...

Ability to observe and identify vehicle condition and maintenance needs. * Capable of working ... Occasional outdoor work required in varying weather conditions. * Must be able to work in cold ...

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Weather Observer information

See Alaska salary details

$21.1K

$54.2K

$109.8K

How much do weather observer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for weather observer in Alaska is $54,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,290.00 and $62,932.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Weather Observer vs Meteorological Technician?

AspectWeather ObserverMeteorological Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require certifications in weather observationAssociate's or bachelor's degree in meteorology or related field; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, often in remote or weather-sensitive locationsIndoor and outdoor; may involve equipment maintenance and data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageFederal agencies, weather stations, airportsNational Weather Service, research facilities, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Weather Observers primarily focus on collecting weather data through direct observation, often outdoors in various conditions. Meteorological Technicians typically have more advanced education and handle equipment maintenance, data processing, and analysis. Both roles are essential in weather forecasting and often work together within the same organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by weather observers during severe weather events?

Weather Observers often encounter significant challenges during severe weather, such as storms or extreme temperatures. These conditions may require extended hours of observation, quick and accurate data recording, and close attention to safety protocols. Additionally, Weather Observers must communicate rapidly with meteorologists and emergency services to ensure timely dissemination of critical weather information. Adaptability and a calm demeanor are essential to perform effectively under pressure.

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

To thrive as a Weather Observer, you need a solid understanding of meteorological principles, observational techniques, and typically a background in atmospheric sciences or related training. Familiarity with meteorological instruments, data collection systems, and weather reporting software is essential, and certification from organizations like the National Weather Service can be valuable. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are important soft skills for accurately recording and reporting weather data. These skills ensure reliable weather observations that are critical for forecasting, safety, and operational decision-making.

What does a weather observer do?

A Weather Observer is responsible for monitoring and recording atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation. They use specialized instruments and equipment to collect accurate weather data, which is then reported to meteorological agencies or used for forecasting purposes. Weather Observers may work at airports, weather stations, or other field locations, and their observations are crucial for aviation safety, public warnings, and climate research.

What does a weather observer do?

As a weather observer, your responsibilities are to collect, record, and analyze weather conditions. In this role, you may research information about your observations, predict changes in prevailing conditions, and help decide whether or not to recommend sending out weather warnings. Many weather observers specialize in particular areas, such as supporting the military or local news stations, and specialization can affect your future career options. Weather observation usually requires monitoring conditions at all times, so employers may ask you to work nights, weekends, or holidays as necessary. You may be asked to go out into poor weather to gather information, so the ability to work in the heat, cold, rain, wind, or other environmental conditions as necessary is essential to this job.

What are the most commonly searched types of Weather Observer jobs in Alaska? The most popular types of Weather Observer jobs in Alaska are:
What are popular job titles related to Weather Observer jobs in Alaska? For Weather Observer jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Weather Observer jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Weather Observer jobs in Alaska are:
What cities in Alaska are hiring for Weather Observer jobs? Cities in Alaska with the most Weather Observer job openings:
Infographic showing various Weather Observer job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,170 per year, or $26 per hour.

Remote ATAC Weather Observer (Rotational) - Kuparuk - CP

NANA Management Services

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Description

The ATAC Weather Observer is responsible for the safe operations of all aspects of aviation safety to include the runway and helipad's navigational aids are maintained to FAA standards.  Must be able to communicate clearly with Aircraft, Pilots, ground support with phone briefings on current conditions including weather, traffic, and potential hazards.   

This position follows a two (2) weeks on, two (2) weeks off rotational schedule and is based at the Kuparuk oil field.

Responsibilities
  • Provide current local aviation weather updates to aircraft operating in the vicinity of the Kuparuk Airport. 
  • Provide current aviation weather briefings to pilots of aircraft operating into and out of the Kuparuk Airport. 
  • Ensure the Kuparuk Runway and Q400 ground operations are prepared for scheduled Q400 flights to Kuparuk and the runway is acceptable as a secondary landing site for Kuparuk Q400 flights. 
  • Provide arrival and departure passenger and baggage information to the Kuparuk Security Ground Support Operations or any other required agency. 
  • Provide local area weather information to Kuparuk Operations and construction activities on request. 
  • Control access to the runway and apron and coordinate safe vehicle and aircraft operations. 
  • Conduct initial Airport Condition Reports (ACR) and Kuparuk Field Condition Reports (FCR).   
  • Originateand cancel NOTAMS as required.  Send NOTAMS by e-mail to COPA AOS, Q400 pilots, Otter and CASA pilots, FAA Flight Service Station Deadhorse (FSS Deadhorse), Alpine ATAC, Kuparuk Operations Support Supervisor, Kuparuk Security Supervisor, and any other interested agency and noted on the ACR.  
  • Monitor the tundra around the runway to ensure the animals do not encroach into the safe area around the runway.   
  • Ensure that weather equipment is properly calibrated by conducting required periodic checks as established in FAA JO 7900.  
  • Coordinator with the Marshall and ground crew to facilitate aircraft parking and facilitate safe vehicle movement on the apron.   
  • Monitor offloading and loading of cargo and freight for all flight- coordinates with ground crew and logistics. 
  • Provide input and communicate to crews maintaining the runway and apron of      the condition and work required. 
  • Relay to the pilot's runway and apron condition prior to landing and departing.  
  • Conduct required hourly Aviation Weather Observations (METARs) and Special Weather Observations as required by FCC JO 7900.  
  • Notify supervisor if safety and sanitation standards are not being met. 
  • Other duties that are pertinent to the department or unit's success also may be assigned. 
  • This position has no supervisory responsibilities
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent. 
  • Must have at least one (1) year of directly related ATAC Weather Observer experience. 
  • FAA Weather Observer certification required.  
  • Must have valid driver's license and acceptable driving record for the past three (3) years to be eligible under company vehicle insurance policy. 
  • Must have intermediate computer skills in MS Office (Word, Excel and Outlook). 
  • Ability to work independently and complete assignments in a timely manner. 
  • Strong communication skills, in both written and verbal forms. 
  • Must be able to cooperate and work as part of a team with fellow employees, customers and clients.  
  • Must be able to make decisions in the moment with little to no supervision. 
  • Contract requires employees to speak, understand, read and write English. 
  • Must meet and adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations set forth by the company and client. 

CANDIDATES RESIDING OUTSIDE ANCHORAGE AREA:  

Candidates residing in Alaska & the Lower 48 for any contract: For the purposes of pre-employment testing, Anchorage will be considered the point of hire (with the exception of drug testing, which will be conducted near the candidate's place of residence). Employee is responsible for any travel expenses and needed accommodations related to preemployment tasks that need to be completed in Anchorage, AK. This includes, but is not limited to, any safety training requirements, required preemployment testing and/or training such as physical, DOT physical/medical card, fit for duty, audiogram, and/or other testing required by contract/company (NSTC, APICC training, security licensing requirements, etc.). 

Candidates residing in Alaska for Alyeska Contract: pre-employment testing will be scheduled near the candidate's area of residence within the state. The only exception is when the candidate lives in a region without the necessary service providers to complete all requirements.  

 

Flights to Remote Locations: All employees are responsible for all expenses related to reporting to point of hire (Anchorage, AK) for scheduled trips paid for by the company for remote locations. 

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Weather: Indoors and Outdoors, frequently exposed to arctic outdoor weather conditions.

Noise level: Moderate to Loud.

Description of environment: Environment will vary based on the facility assigned to.

Physical requirements: Employee is required to lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. Frequently to constantly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands/fingers to handle or feel, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, talk/hear, see, taste/smell, and carry weight/lift.

Travel: Yes, up to 50% of the time. Employee may travel up to various locations within Alaska/or remote locations and may be required to use alternative modes of transportation, including but not limited to snow machines, boats, small airplanes, and ATVs.

Fit For Duty Test:

  • Lift: Lift 20 lbs. from floor to knuckle x 2,  
  • Lift: Lift 20 lbs. from floor to waist x 2, 
  • Carry: Carry 20 lbs. with two hands for a minimum distance of 20 feet, self-paced but continuous, 
  • Kneel: Kneel on one knee and stand. Return to kneel on opposite knee. Repeat alternate kneeling sequence x 3 for each knee, self-paced but continuous, 
  • Stand from Supine Position Test: From a supine, recumbent position, while wearing arctic gear, test recipient must be able to stand without assistance x 3, self-paced (this task must be accomplished safely without significant loss of balance or falling and without assistance). Allow one re-test when there is a loss of balance considered unsafe or a fall.) 
  • Stoop & Twist:Perform alternate cross over toe touches x 5 each side, self-paced but continuous, 
  • Walk: Walk on a treadmill at 3 MPH for 10 minutes with good balance 
  • Stairs:Climb up and down 10 steps x 2 for a total of 20 steps, self-paced.  
Employment Type: OTHER