Space Meteorologist

The outlook for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists, overall is good, with faster than average employment growth predicted through 2029. According to the Department of Labor, there will be increased demand in private industry for atmospheric scientists as more companies will be in need of specialized weather information. In addition, as computer models and meteorological equipment continue to be improved on, space weather forecasts will increase in accuracy. This will enable space meteorologists as well as other types of meteorologists to tailor their forecasts for specific purposes.

Increased interest in the effects of space weather and events on the Earth's weather, climate changes, and environmental issues will also require the skills and knowledge of space meteorologists. Federal funding for space research and space technology programs is also expected to increase in the coming years, with particular focus on studying questions related to climate science.

Space meteorologists with an advanced degree in space meteorology and several years of prior experience will have the advantage in the job market. Those who have completed the online training program called COMET (https://www.meted.ucar.edu/education_training) with the National Weather Service and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research may also improve their job prospects.