ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Weather Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saalex

Weather Forecaster I

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$37.32/hr

Observe weather phenomena and analyze climatic regimes, geography, terrain, weather system characteristics, centralized weather products, and surface and upper-air reports to forecast weather ...

Amentum Services, Inc.

Meteorologist

Chicago, IL

One year'verifiedtraining/experience as a meteorologist, meteorologisttechnicianor weather observer in the operation of upper air sounding equipment and making meteorological observations is ...

Spire

Full-Stack Weather Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Our Weather division fuses AI and NWP forecasts - initialized with Spire's proprietary observational data - to build mission-critical products for customers across energy trading, utilities ...

Spire

Full-Stack Weather Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · Hybrid

$130K - $171K/yr

Our Weather division fuses AI and NWP forecasts -- initialized with Spire's proprietary observational data -- to build mission-critical products for customers across energy trading, utilities ...

Pae

Meteorologist Senior

Chicago, IL · On-site

Minimum two years training/experience as a meteorologist, meteorologisttechnicianor weather observer in the operation of upper air sounding equipment and making meteorological observations is ...

Pae

Meteorologist

Chicago, IL

One year'verifiedtraining/experience as a meteorologist, meteorologisttechnicianor weather observer in the operation of upper air sounding equipment and making meteorological observations is ...

Tomorrow.io

Systems Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by internally developed sensing technologies - transforming how atmospheric data is captured and used worldwide. Tomorrow.io ...

New

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsWeather Observer Jobs

Weather Observer information

See salary details

$21K

$53.8K

$109K

How much do weather observer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for weather observer in the United States is $53,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $62,500.00 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.

More about Weather Observer jobs
What cities are hiring for Weather Observer jobs? Cities with the most Weather Observer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Weather Observer jobs? The most popular types of Weather Observer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Weather Observer jobs? The top employers for Weather Observer jobs are:
What states have the most Weather Observer jobs? States with the most job openings for Weather Observer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Weather Observer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Weather Observer jobs are:
Weather Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weather Observer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,798 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Weather Forecaster I

Saalex

Ridgecrest, CA • On-site

$37.32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Saalex is seeking a Weather Forecaster I in Ridgecrest, CA to support meteorological observation, forecasting, reporting, and dissemination activities in support of government test and training operations. This is an entry-level forecasting role responsible for preparing routine weather observations, forecasts, and adapted forecast products using meteorological data from surface and upper-air stations, satellites, radar, and centralized forecast sources.
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $37.32 hourly (depending on experience)
Work Location: Onsite.
Essential Functions:
  • Assist with meteorological production processes used to develop and disseminate accurate weather products and services.
  • Observe weather phenomena and analyze climatic regimes, geography, terrain, weather system characteristics, centralized weather products, and surface and upper-air reports to forecast weather conditions.
  • Encode and record weather observations using computer-based weather station systems.
  • Identify, evaluate, and monitor significant weather developments.
  • Discuss the location, intensity, movement, and development potential of weather features.
  • Initiate computer-generated graphic sequences to load, evaluate, and display meteorological charts, alphanumeric data, and statistical model output.
  • Disseminate weather observations in accordance with established system procedures.
  • Assist in recommending forecasting techniques, methods, and procedures to improve unit forecasting capabilities.
  • Attend technical briefings, seminars, conferences, and other meetings as required.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements
Required:
  • Knowledge of meteorological methods, techniques, and practices, including weather observing, forecasting, communications, meteorological equipment, and support procedures.
  • Familiarity with computer software and applications used in weather forecasting operations.
  • Ability to recognize and measure meteorological phenomena using scientific equipment and instrumentation.
  • Ability to support decision-making during severe weather or emergency situations.
  • Ability to distinguish and interpret detailed weather data displays.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Desired:
  • Experience supporting military, government, aviation, test range, or operational weather environments.
  • Experience using weather station systems, meteorological display tools, or forecast production software.
  • Experience preparing localized weather observations, forecasts, or routine weather products for mission-specific applications.

Education/Years of Experience:
Associate degree in Applied Science, Weather Technology, or equivalent formal academic training and experience and Two (2) years of weather forecasting experience.
Work Environment / Physical Requirements
  • Ability to safely ascend and descend a 26-step stairway as part of routine job duties.
  • Primarily office-based environment.
  • Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.
  • Frequent computer use and extended periods of sitting.
  • Comply with all company operational, safety, quality, and environmental policies and procedures.

Security Clearance:
Must be eligible to obtain a Secret clearance. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.
Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources
  • Stock Option Plan

Apply