Meteorologist
Ready to become a climate expert? Meteorologists work with data to predict the weather and impacts of climate change.

About the job
Salary (before tax)
Entry
£27,000

Experienced
£60,000
In this job, new workers in Scotland start around £27,000 per year. Experienced workers can earn up to £60,000.
Source:
National Careers ServiceWhat it's like
You'd collect and analyse data to predict the weather. Your reports would be vital for people who work outdoors, such as farmers. They'd also be crucial for aircraft pilots and the crews of ships at sea.
You'd study the earth's atmosphere, climate and weather.
You could specialise in one of two main areas – forecasting or research.
In forecasting, you could:
collect data from satellite images, radar, remote sensors and weather stations all over the world
measure air pressure, wind, temperature and humidity
apply computer models and scientific principles to make short-range and long-range weather forecasts
supply weather data, bulletins and reports to customers.
Your weather forecasts could be for the general public or could be specialist reports for agriculture, aviation or the armed forces.
In research, you could:
investigate weather patterns and climate change
develop and improve computer forecasting models
apply research to practical problems, such as predicting floods or how the weather affects the spread of pollution or disease
At the start of your career in either area, you might observe and record the weather, produce charts and help senior staff.
With experience, you would take on more complex work and present your findings at meetings and conferences.
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Meteorologist'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- developing a plan
- researching
- observation
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- written communication
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating

Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Meteorologist'