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Weather Service Meteorologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meteorologist

Topeka, KS · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Aberdeen, SD · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Midland, TX · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Grand Forks, ND · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Tallahassee, FL · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Amarillo, TX · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Lubbock, TX · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Meteorologist

Sullivan, WI · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

Participates in Weather Service meetings for learning and understanding and obtaining knowledge. * * Maintains key partnerships with meteorology, scientific and technology communities to align and ...

Meteorologist

Gray, ME · On-site +1

$40K/yr

... National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for ... Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included: 1. At least 24 ...

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Weather Service Meteorologist information

See salary details

$37K

$96.3K

$122K

How much do weather service meteorologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for weather service meteorologist in the United States is $96,278.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to find a job as a meteorologist?

Finding a job as a weather service meteorologist can be competitive, especially in desirable locations or specialized fields. Strong educational credentials, such as a degree in meteorology or atmospheric science, and experience with forecasting tools and certifications like the AMS seal can improve job prospects. Opportunities are often available in government agencies, private companies, and research institutions, but competition and regional demand vary.

How much do weather meteorologists get paid?

Weather service meteorologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Entry-level positions usually start lower, while experienced meteorologists or those in supervisory roles can earn higher salaries, especially in government agencies or private sectors. Strong skills in data analysis, forecasting tools, and communication are important for higher pay.

What are some common challenges Weather Service Meteorologists face when issuing forecasts and warnings?

Weather Service Meteorologists often work under tight deadlines, especially when severe weather is developing rapidly. Balancing accuracy with the need for timely updates can be challenging, as forecasts must be communicated clearly to the public and emergency services. Additionally, meteorologists collaborate closely with colleagues, emergency managers, and media partners to ensure information is distributed effectively. Staying updated on the latest modeling tools and technology is also essential for success in this dynamic environment.

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

To thrive as a Weather Service Meteorologist, you need a strong background in atmospheric science, meteorological data analysis, and a relevant bachelor’s or advanced degree. Familiarity with weather modeling software, radar and satellite systems, and GIS tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills help meteorologists convey complex forecasts clearly and respond effectively during severe weather events. These skills are crucial for providing accurate, timely weather information that protects public safety and supports decision-making.

What is the highest paid meteorologist?

The highest paid meteorologists are often those in senior roles such as chief meteorologists or those working for major broadcast networks, government agencies, or private consulting firms. Salaries can exceed $150,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What does a Weather Service Meteorologist do?

A Weather Service Meteorologist analyzes atmospheric data to forecast weather conditions and issue warnings for severe weather events. They use tools such as satellites, radar, and computer models to track weather patterns and provide reports to the public, emergency services, and government agencies. Their work helps protect lives and property by ensuring people are informed about hazardous weather. Meteorologists also contribute to research on climate and weather trends to improve future forecasts.

Can you be a meteorologist without a degree in meteorology?

Becoming a weather service meteorologist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related field. While some positions may accept related degrees with relevant experience or certifications, most employers prefer candidates with formal education in meteorology due to the technical nature of the work.
More about Weather Service Meteorologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Weather Service Meteorologist jobs? Cities with the most Weather Service Meteorologist job openings:
What states have the most Weather Service Meteorologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Weather Service Meteorologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Weather Service Meteorologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Weather Service Meteorologist jobs are:
Meteorologist

$40K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), with vacancies in each listed location.
This job announcement is intended to establish a Standing Register of Eligible Applicants to fill vacancies as they arise with an initial cut-off date of May 22, 2026. Please refer to the Qualifications section for additional information.Qualifications:

This Standing Register Job Announcement establishes a list of eligible applicants under Direct Hire Authority 5 CFR 337.205(b) to be used to fill full-time permanent positions across multiple NWS locations as hiring needs arise. This is a Standing Register announcement and will remain open for applications as stated in the vacancy announcement. For applicants seeking consideration during the current review cycle, the application cut-off date will be 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on June 15, 2026.

Applications received after this cut-off date may be considered during a subsequent review cycle, as outlined in the announcement.
Applicants will receive consideration up to 6 months after the closing date of the announcement, or until the applicant withdraws their application from consideration. Applicants who withdraw from consideration may re-establish active consideration by submitting a new application package for the next referral. Additionally, applicants may be considered on subsequent certificates as new vacancies become available and additional referrals are issued.

Applicants are limited to select up to 10 locations per announcement.
Once the announcement closes, you may submit documentation of any additional qualifications gained after the closing date to noaa.applicantinquiries@noaa.gov. Such information may be considered for up to six (6) months following the announcement's closing date.
If your resume is incomplete or does not support the responses you provided in your online questionnaire, or if you fail to submit all required documentation before the vacancy closes, you may be rated 'ineligible', or 'not qualified'. If this occurs, you may update your application for a future cut-off date.
Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: This position has a positive Education Requirement in addition to at least one year of Specialized Experience OR substitution of education for experience OR combination (if applicable) in order to be found minimally qualified. Transcripts must be submitted with your application package. You MUST meet the following requirements:
To qualify for the 1340 series:
EDUCATION:
A. Degree: Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or other natural science major that included:
1. At least 24 semester (36 quarter) hours of credit in meteorology/atmospheric science including a minimum of:

  • Six semester hours of atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics;*
  • Six semester hours of analysis and prediction of weather systems (synoptic/mesoscale);
  • Three semester hours of physical meteorology; and
  • Two semester hours of remote sensing of the atmosphere and/or instrumentation.

2. Six semester hours of physics, with at least one course that includes laboratory sessions.*
3. Three semester hours of ordinary differential equations.*
4. At least nine semester hours of course work appropriate for a physical science major in any combination of three or more of the following: physical hydrology, statistics, chemistry, physical oceanography, physical climatology, radiative transfer, aeronomy, advanced thermodynamics, advanced electricity and magnetism, light and optics, and computer science.
* There is a prerequisite or corequisite of calculus for course work in atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics, physics, and differential equations. Calculus courses must be appropriate for a physical science major.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
-AND-
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the GS-05 level: Applicants that meet the Basic Education Requirement qualify at the GS-05 level.
To qualify at the GS-07 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possessone full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 in the Federal service. Specializedexperience MUST include all of the following:

  • Using state-of-the-art hydro-meteorological data to monitor current conditions and provide assistance in forecast preparation for weather, water or climate hazards.
OR
SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION: One full year of graduate-level education in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science or in a directly related field.
OR
SUPERIOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: Demonstrated by a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with one of the following. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your application clearly states how you meet one of the provisions below:
  • A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher based on a 4.0 scale for all completed undergraduate courses, or those completed in the last 2 full years of undergraduate study;
  • A GPA of 3.5 or higher based on a 4.0 scale for required courses completed in a major field of study, or those courses completed in a major field of study during the last two years of undergraduate study;
  • Class standing of upper third of the graduating class in the college, university, or major subdivision of the college;
  • Membership in a national Scholastic Honor Society certified by the Association of College Honor Societies, excluding freshman honor societies.
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: A combination of successfully completed graduate-level education and specialized experience may be used to meet the total experience requirements.
To qualify at the GS-09 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:
  • Using state-of-the-art hydro-meteorological data to monitor a geographic area and assist in the preparation and issuance of warnings, advisories, outlooks and general forecasts for weather, water or climate hazards.

OR
SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION: Master's or equivalent graduate degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science or in a directly related field or 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree.
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: A combination of successfully completed graduate-level education and specialized experience may be used to meet the total experience requirements. Note: Only graduate level education in excess of the amount required for the next lower grade level may be combined with experience.

Education:

College Transcript: If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), name of accredited institution, course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution is equivalent to U.S. education standards with your resume. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
Note: Your college transcript is used to verify successful completion of degree, or college course work. An official college transcript will be required before you can report to duty.
Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: OPM Foreign Education Evaluation.

Employment Type: OTHER