Meteorologists

Employment for atmospheric scientists should grow faster than the average for all careers through 2033, by about 6 percent, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Competition will be keen, however, and meteorologists with advanced degrees will have better opportunities to find work. Few employment opportunities are expected in the federal government, such as at the National Weather Service, due to budget constraints.

Job growth is predicted due to the new computer models that improve forecast accuracy; more businesses will need specialized weather information that meteorologists can provide. Opportunities for atmospheric scientists should be best in private industry. Private weather consulting firms are able to provide more detailed information than the NWS to weather-sensitive industries, such as farmers, commodity investors, radio and television stations, and utilities, transportation, and construction firms. Some atmospheric scientists will also be needed to analyze and monitor the dispersion of pollutants into the air to ensure compliance with federal environmental regulations.