Atmospheric and space scientists
SOC Code: 19-2021Also known as:
Aerologist, Air Analyst, Astrochemist, Atmospheric Chemist, Atmospheric Scientist
Median Annual Salary
$97,450
+0.7% growth (2024-2034)
700
Openings/Year
9K
Current Jobs
What Atmospheric and space scientists Do
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.
💰 Salary
$97,450
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+0.7%
Little or no change
🎓 Education
Bachelor's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
700
Projected average per year
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
9,400
Projected Employment (2034)
9,500
Related Careers
Computer occupations, all other
$108,970 •
+8.2% growth
Data scientists
$112,590 •
+33.5% growth
Geoscientists, except hydrologists and geographers
$99,240 •
+3.2% growth
Hydrologists
$92,060 •
-0.1% growth
Physical scientists, all other
$117,960 •
+0.6% growth
Top Skills Required
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking
Science
Critical Thinking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
- Interpret data, reports, maps, photographs, or charts to predict long- or short-range weather conditions, using computer models and knowledge of climate theory, physics, and mathematics.
- Conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.
- Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.
- Broadcast weather conditions, forecasts, or severe weather warnings to the public via television, radio, or the Internet or provide this information to the news media.
- Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.
- Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
- Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.
- Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
- Develop and deliver training on weather topics.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Bachelor's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Bachelor's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Atmospheric and space scientists
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a atmospheric and space scientists:
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General
974 degrees awarded •
64 colleges offer this program
Meteorology
284 degrees awarded •
26 colleges offer this program
Climate Science
100 degrees awarded •
7 colleges offer this program
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, Other
64 degrees awarded •
9 colleges offer this program
Atmospheric Chemistry and Climatology
18 degrees awarded •
3 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Atmospheric and space scientists
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become atmospheric and space scientists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do atmospheric and space scientists make?
The median annual salary for atmospheric and space scientists is $97,450.
What education do atmospheric and space scientists need?
Most atmospheric and space scientists positions require a bachelor's degree.
Common degree programs include Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General, Meteorology, Climate Science.
Is becoming atmospheric and space scientists a good career choice?
Atmospheric and space scientists is projected to see +0.7% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 700 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for atmospheric and space scientists?
Top colleges for aspiring atmospheric and space scientists include
University of California-Los Angeles, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Columbia University in the City of New York, University of Pennsylvania, University of California-San Diego.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to atmospheric and space scientists?
Atmospheric and space scientists may also be known as: Aerologist, Air Analyst, Astrochemist, Atmospheric Chemist, Atmospheric Scientist, Broadcast Meteorologist, Climate Change Risk Assessor, Climatologist, Computer Meteorologist, Forecaster, General Forecaster, Hurricane Tracker, Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech), Hydrometeorologist, Marine Meteorologist, Meteorological Engineer, Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech), Meteorologist, Morning Meteorologist, Ocean Monitoring and Data Assimilation Scientist.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.