How are the meteorologist jobs?

Working for the National Weather Service?

• I graduated in 2009 with a degree in meteorology and I've been applying to every job that I'm qualified for and still have not landed that entry level position with the National Weather Service. I understand that it is competitive but I have an internship with the NWS and an internship with a TV station working for the Chief Meteorologist there and good grades. I expected it to be hard but with my grades and two internships I really expected to have gotten a job at this point. Is the economy really that bad right now? Is there anything I can do to break into that magical status where the NWS might think I'm worth hiring? I think maybe I'm not "stretching" the truth enough on the questionaire or selling myself short. A television meteorologist is currently working with me to improve my skills in front of a camera, and I've been applying for the private sector jobs so I'm not picky at this point but I really felt I had put together a good deal for employment with the NWS. Does the rough economy have anything at all to do with it? If there are others with degrees in meteorology and haven't been able to get a job, what are you doing now? I work at a restaurant and I don't hate my job but I did go to school for a reason. It's pretty soul-destroying getting notified time and again that you didn't get the job.

• Answer:

  If you read the two below reviews from applicants who interviewed at NWS and were not offered a job i.e. priority given to existing employees/veterans. Meteorology is a relatively small field and the number of vacancies virtually matches the number of graduates looking for a career in meteorology. However, this means that choice is limited and most entrants need to compromise either on location or area of specialization. Applied Research Applied meteorological research specialists interpret weather-related data for other organizations' needs. For example, a meteorologist uses regional wind pattern data to help cities minimize air pollution risks. Another professional uses wind shear trend information to help aerospace designers create stronger aircraft. Meteorologists serve as expert witnesses at policy hearings, function as industrial site development consultants and prepare environmental impact statements for private clients. A meteorological consultant may have a varied client base. Aviation Meteorology Aviation meteorologists work for large passenger or cargo airlines. These professionals monitor weather events and issue forecasts for air carriers' routes. A meteorologist issues a forecast before an aircraft leaves the departure terminal, and updates that forecast while the plane is en route to its destination. These updates may also include hazardous weather warnings. Some computer-generated flight plans utilize current weather data as a planning tool. Are there any areas of specialization? The field of meteorology offers the option of specialization. Specialization increases earning potential and advancement opportunities. Some specializations include: •Operational meteorologist •Atmospheric scientists •Consulting •Physical meteorologist •Environmental scientist •Hydrometeorology Who employs Meteorologists? Meteorologists are employed in government and in the private sector. Weather consulting firms, manufacturing companies, the media, environmental groups, and educational facilities all hire meteorologists. Once they have a great deal of experience and have established a reputation in their field, many meteorologists start their own business or consulting firms. Clients of these firms are those companies that need the services of a meteorologist on an “as needed basis” or those who cannot afford to fill the position in house. Examples of companies who employ meteorologists are: United Airlines, CNN, and the United State’s National Forest Service. Space Weather Forecaster at NWS- Posted Jan 3, 2012 Interviewed and No Offer Interviewed Aug 2011 in Boulder, CO (took 2+ months) It was a position with the federal government, so the process was initiated through USAJobs. The federal government has a 80-day window to job announcement to hire and these folks were following it. A human resource adviser reviewed the application for level of qualification and proceeded to forward package to the hiring official. There were a few email conversations with the hiring official, but those were more for determining an appropriate time for an interview. The interview was conducted by a panel and all participants had prepared questions. Though this ensured every candidate was presented with the exact same question, it eliminated any spontaneity or follow-on questioning. This division had an "ideal" candidate in mind, for which I wasn't their exact fit. Interestingly, and this goes towards their culture, a second opportunity opened within the organization. My application didn't make the panel despite improvements to my package. Interview Questions How would you handle a personality difference with a coworker? Account Executive at NWS=Posted Jan 24, 2011-Interviewed and No Offer Interviewed Jan in Irvine, CA (took 3 weeks) After a 30 minute telephone interview with the company recruiter, was scheduled for in person interview for the following week. Met with the head of HR, and Customer Service department manager. Was asked 16 to 20 questions regarding past work experience, and some hypothetical situations. Asked about hobbies, life passions, work interests, etc... Took various tests, and was scheduled to return for group interview the following week. Group interview took place with VP of HR, C.S. Department Managers, President, and CEO - and seven other candidates.More of a role play amoung all in the room. Enjoyed the process and the people. Beautiful multi story secured building in a beautiful area. The people in the office were professional, but also friendly, and seemed to believe and really like what they did. Interview Questions Why are you interested in this industry? tell me about the most difficult situation you had to deal with, and how you dealt with it?