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Weather Observer Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Captain

Unalaska, AK ยท On-site

Most trips average 4-5 weeks in duration, but depending on the fishing season, catch rates, weather ... Net sales are calculated by accounting for certain operating costs such as bait, fuel, observer ...

PILOT INSTR AIR DROP

AK ยท On-site

Flies on the airplane (as required) in observer status to maintain currency on operational ... work in inclement weather and temperature extremes as set forth in the Air Force and company ...

Flies on the airplane (as required) in observer status to maintain currency on operational ... work in inclement weather and temperature extremes as set forth in the Air Force and company ...

Flies on the airplane (as required) in observer status to maintain currency on operational ... work in inclement weather and temperature extremes as set forth in the Air Force and company ...

Immediately intervene when safety hazards are observed * Conduct employee task training * Develop ... Exposure to inclement weather conditions (including snow, rain, wind as well as extremely warm or ...

Flies on the airplane (as required) in observer status to maintain currency on operational ... work in inclement weather and temperature extremes as set forth in the Air Force and company ...

Immediately intervene when safety hazards are observed * Conduct employee task training * Develop ... Exposure to inclement weather conditions (including snow, rain, wind as well as extremely warm or ...

Immediately intervene when safety hazards are observed * Conduct employee task training * Develop ... Exposure to inclement weather conditions (including snow, rain, wind as well as extremely warm or ...

Most trips average 4-5 weeks in duration, but depending on the fishing season, catch rates, weather ... observer expenses, etc. 40% of net sales go to the officers and crew. All travel for officers is ...

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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 Jul 15, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 12% Temporary. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,170 per year, or $26 per hour.
Captain

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The captain is a USCG licensed officer who serves as the backup to the vessel captain. Captains must be able to safely navigate the vessel, supervise the handling of gear, maintain safe practices, and work with the Bristol Wave operations team to continually refine and improve the business plan.
Working in the Bering Sea:
Working at sea is physically and mentally challenging and requires long hours in remote locations, often several days' travel from the nearest port. Our deck and processing crews work 16-hour shifts, 7 days a week. Most trips average 4-5 weeks in duration, but depending on the fishing season, catch rates, weather, vessel size and other factors, trips can be as short as 10-12 days or as long as 60+ days. Crew members generally work multiple trips (2 months or longer) in a single rotation.
Compensation, Travel & Expenses:
Payroll is crew share percentage. Crew share calculations are based on the net adjusted sales. Net sales are calculated by accounting for certain operating costs such as bait, fuel, observer expenses, etc. 40% of net sales go to the officers and crew.
All travel for officers is arranged and paid for by the company, including flights, hotels, and meals while traveling.
Requirements
โ€ข USCG Licensing required: 500 GT near coastal uninspected fishing master's license (or greater).
โ€ข Ability to navigate effectively and familiarity with all related regulations.
โ€ข Ability to supervise handling of all gear.
โ€ข Ability to maintain safe practices aboard the ship and conduct safety drills.
โ€ข Drill Instructor certification required.
โ€ข HACCP certification required.
โ€ข Proper allocation of crew shares based on performance.
โ€ข Maintaining of discipline in accordance with company policy.
โ€ข Administering of required random and post-accident drug screenings - specimen collector certification required.
โ€ข Proper handling of paperwork and communications with central office.
โ€ข Willingness to work with operations and human resources management to constantly refine and improve the business plan.
โ€ข Must pass pre-employment drug screening (commercial fishing falls under federal authority; we cannot hire anyone who tests positive for THC).
โ€ข Pre-employment background check required (past convictions will not necessarily prevent employment).
โ€ข Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. BWS participates in eVerify.
Benefits
Vessel officers are eligible for healthcare benefits, subsidized by the company at 75% for both employees and dependents, including medical coverage, dental coverage, vision coverage, voluntary life insurance, and a Health Savings Account (HSA) with a discretionary company contribution. Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting period.