Meteorologist

Meteorologists prepare short-term or long-term weather forecasts used in aviation, shipping, agriculture and other areas, and for the information of the general public. They conduct research into the composition, structure and dynamics of the atmosphere.

• investigating the direction and speed of air movements, atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, physical and chemical transformation of pollutants and other phenomena such as cloud formation and precipitation, electrical disturbances and solar radiation;
• studying data collected from weather stations, radar and satellite imagery and computer model output to map and forecast weather conditions;
• preparing and issuing short-term or long-term weather maps, forecasts and warnings of atmospheric phenomena such as cyclones, storms and other hazards to life and property;
• disseminating information about atmospheric conditions through electronic and print media, including the Internet;
• conducting experiments in fog dispersal, cloud seeding, rain enhancement and other weather modification programmes;
• developing and testing mathematical computer models of weather and climate for experimental or operational use;
• participating in studies of the effect of weather on the environment;
• analysing the impact of industrial projects and human activity on climate and air quality and working with social, engineering and economic science experts to develop appropriate mitigation strategies;
• engaging in the design and development of new equipment and procedures for meteorological data collection, remote sensing or related applications;
• conducting research and improving or developing concepts, theories and operational methods related to the composition, structure and dynamics of the atmosphere, and preparing scientific papers based on such research;
• preparing scientific papers and reports.
• Examples of occupations in this unit group:
• Climatologist
• Meteorologist
• Weather forecaster