Atmospheric and Space Scientists
Career Snapshot
Everyone complains about the weather, but no one ever does anything about it. Atmospheric and space scientists, sometimes known as meteorologists, are working to change this. Their work can save lives and property by researching the elements and planetary motions that influence weather.
Data from stations on and above the Earth is collected and analysed by the scientists. They create forecasts for the approaching weather using computer models. An important aspect of the work is the ability to recognise severe weather patterns and offer warnings, providing residents in the path of a storm, for example, enough time to flee.
Atmospheric and space scientists are also looking to the future, utilising their data to investigate topics such as global warming and ozone depletion. It's a vocation that necessitates college-level education in earth science and meteorology. From there, opportunities vary from broadcasting to working for the federal government.
For entry-level occupations, a bachelor's degree is usually required. Most basic research roles require a Ph.D. One advantage of this job is that people are almost always interested in what you do because everyone wants to know what the weather will be like.