This week’s career memes pay tribute to meteorologists, the professionals who research and forecast the weather and get blamed for ruined weekends.
What they do: Meteorologists can specialise in either research or forecasting.
In weather forecasting, responsibilities can include studying the causes of particular weather conditions using data obtained from radars, sensors, satellite images and weather stations; using computerised and mathematical models to research, analyse and forecast the weather and climate patterns; and presenting this information to customers in terms they understand.
In research, responsibilities can include measuring and monitoring factors such as temperature, humidity, air pressure and climate change; developing methods to help predict atmospheric processes and improve the accuracy of forecasts; and delivering presentations on findings.
What they don’t do: Study meteors.
Educational requirements: A degree in meteorology, maths, a science or computer science.
Required skills: Excellent mathematical, computing and analytical skills; good communication and problem-solving skills; methodical approach to work; and attention to detail.
Salary: Meteorologists can expect to earn an average annual salary of US$50,815, according to PayScale.com.
