"I have always been interested in research and data, but I never had any desire to be on camera, so a job in meteorology would not have occurred to me. I thought the next step after school was to be a weatherman. Yes, that is one career option, but I found out there is so much more. You can work for private companies, the military, academic institutions, or even for a government agency. The National Weather Service and NASA are examples that most people are probably familiar with.

You have to be good at math and physics to do this job, and understanding computer science, and more recently tracking trends in AI modeling, are key to being successful with accuracy. There are so many variables that can affect the outcome of a prediction. I really enjoy the uncertainty. It's like playing a game of chess, you always have to be thinking of multiple outcomes and options. There are so many career options in this field. I highly recommend it."

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Job Description

SOC Code: 19-2021

Atmospheric and Space Scientists 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. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.*

*Source: This information is based on O*NET™ data. O*NET is a trademark registered to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.

Top Job Skills:

• Customer service
• Risk management
• Present information
• Conduct research
• Write informational material

General Work Activities:

• Mental Processes
  • Develop theories or models of physical phenomena
  • Interpret research or operational data
• Interacting With Others
  • Provide technical information or assistance to public
  • Direct technical activities or operations
  • Teach classes in area of specialization
  • Instruct college students in physical or life sciences
• Information Input
  • Conduct climatological research
  • Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning
• Work Output
  • Develop training materials
  • Prepare research or technical reports on environmental issues
  • Prepare research or technical reports on environmental issues

Source: SC Works Online Services (SCWOS)

*All data is factual, but names, Images, and quotations have been adapted to protect the Identity of employees and businesses.

Job Statistics

 

Examples of Workforce Areas with Job Openings

• Trident
• Santee-Lynches

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area.

Examples of Employers with Job Openings

• Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc.
• DAWSON
• Vaisala

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area

Related Occupations

• Data Scientists
• Geoscientists, Except
• Hydrologists and Geographers
• Climate Change Policy Analysts
• Hydrologists
• Geographers
• Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists

NOTE: All data based on state averages. Information may vary depending on region, experience, and specific employment situation. Last Updated: 2025

Learn More with SCWOS

SC Works Online Services (SCWOS) is the state’s largest job database and provides all of South Carolina's job postings from all major sites, including Monster and Career Builder, in one resource. SCWOS has thousands of positions listed by employers all over the state. To access SCWOS, visit jobs.scworks.org.

Find in-depth breakdowns of occupational statistics such as necessary job certifications, job skills and abilities, current job openings, overview of general work activities, and more by visiting O*NET.org.