Atmospheric and Space Scientists - 19-2021.00

O*NET-SOC Description

Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses.

DOT Titles Included in this O*NET-SOC Code

  • Meteorologist

Sample of Occupations in this SOC Family

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Apply meteorological knowledge to problems in areas including agriculture, pollution control, and water management, and to issues such as global warming or ozone depletion.
  • Broadcast weather conditions, forecasts, and severe weather warnings to the public via television, radio, and the Internet, or provide this information to the news media.
  • Collect air samples from planes and ships over land and sea to study atmospheric composition.
  • Collect and analyze historical climate information such as precipitation and temperature records to help predict future weather and climate trends.
  • Conduct basic or applied meteorological research into the processes and determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, and climate.
  • Conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions to understand and predict global and regional weather patterns.
  • Consult with agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information.
  • Design and develop new equipment and methods for meteorological data collection, remote sensing, or related applications.
  • Develop and use weather forecasting tools, such as mathematical and computer models.
  • Direct forecasting services at weather stations, or at radio or television broadcasting facilities.
  • Gather data from sources such as surface and upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, and radar for use in meteorological reports and forecasts.
  • Make scientific presentations and publish reports, articles, or texts.
  • Measure wind, temperature, and humidity in the upper atmosphere, using weather balloons.
  • Operate computer graphic equipment to produce weather reports and maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts.
  • Prepare forecasts and briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, and other groups.
  • Research and analyze the impact of industrial projects and pollution on climate, air quality, and weather phenomena.
  • Study and interpret data, reports, maps, photographs, and charts to predict long- and short-range weather conditions, using computer models and knowledge of climate theory, physics, and mathematics.
  • Teach at colleges or universities.

Detailed Work Activities

  • adhere to safety procedures
  • advise clients or customers
  • advise governmental or industrial personnel
  • analyze scientific research data or investigative findings
  • broadcast weather forecast over television or radio
  • classify plants, animals, or other natural phenomena
  • collect scientific or technical data
  • collect statistical data
  • communicate technical information
  • conduct field research or investigative studies
  • conduct standardized quantitative laboratory analyses
  • confer with research personnel
  • confer with scientists
  • develop or maintain databases
  • develop plans for programs or projects
  • develop scientific or mathematical hypotheses, theories, or laws
  • develop tables depicting data
  • direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
  • direct and coordinate scientific research or investigative studies
  • draw maps or charts
  • explain complex mathematical information
  • forecast or predict phenomena based upon research data
  • forecast weather changes
  • interpret aerial photographs
  • make decisions
  • make presentations
  • monitor atmospheric or meteorological processes
  • monitor meteorological conditions
  • observe weather conditions
  • perform statistical analysis in physical science or geological research
  • plan scientific research or investigative studies
  • prepare reports
  • prepare technical reports or related documentation
  • present research papers or dissertations on physical science issues
  • read maps
  • record test results, test procedures, or inspection data
  • resolve engineering or science problems
  • use computer aided drafting or design software for design, drafting, modeling, or other engineering tasks
  • use computers to enter, access or retrieve data
  • use geographical information system (GIS) software
  • use knowledge of investigation techniques
  • use library or online Internet research techniques
  • use mathematical or statistical methods to identify or analyze problems
  • use meteorological equipment or instruments
  • use oral or written communication techniques
  • use physical science research techniques
  • use public speaking techniques
  • use quantitative research methods
  • use relational database software
  • use research methodology to study atmospheric phenomena
  • use scientific research methodology
  • use spreadsheet software
  • use teaching techniques
  • use word processing or desktop publishing software
  • write business project or bid proposals
  • write research or project grant proposals
  • write scholarly or technical research papers