How did you know to bring an umbrella today? More than likely, a meteorologist told you what the weather would be like, warning you of the storm. Meteorologists, also known as weathermen, come from a branch of science that deals with the study of the atmosphere, particularly, weather processes and climate trends. Not all meteorologists predict the weather on TV, however; most meteorologists work for private organizations or the federal government, relaying info just as accurate as a TV weatherman.

            There are many benefits to being a meteorologist. In addition to making an annual salary of over $82,080, the work is rarely monotonous. To many, it is exciting to look at the sky and predict the future; whether something occurs that is or isn’t expected, those discoveries intrigue meteorologists and beckon them to delve deeper into their studies. For those unafraid of the camera, working as a meteorologist on television comes with its own unique benefits; not only can you show off your skills on television, but if you’re talented, you can become loved and respected by your audience.

            Knowing what the weather will be like before everyone else – how lucky are meteorologists? For meteorologists who work for the National Weather Service (NWS), the perks are multiplied. After obtaining required credentials, finding an open spot is easy; meteorologists are always in high demand. Where you live does not limit your career; the NWS hosts many available offices nationwide, allowing you to live nearly anywhere you please while pursuing your career. Once accepted, NWS meteorologists are guaranteed yearly pay raises for over three years, in addition to their $80,080 salary.

            As great as meteorologists may be, there are some down-sides to the job. For one, most meteorologists work shift hours; they are unable to customize and control their schedules to their likings. In times of atmospheric catastrophe, weathermen are usually obliged to work overtime to keep strict tabs on harsh weather patterns, including: hurricanes, tornados, etc. In rare cases, meteorologists are sent to work in the field to gain first-hand experience on the weather; whether it be a punishing blizzard or light drizzle, some meteorologists are forced to endure the elements for a living. For those with a shady background, becoming a nationally certified meteorologist will be hard; applications will usually ask for much personal information. In addition, numerous background checks will be performed on the individual before they are accepted.

            Becoming a meteorologist does not come easy; a great deal of education and experience is mandated of those applying in the field. Aside from a beginning job as a  meteorologist, most positions require much more than just a bachelor’s degree with a major in meteorology. Federal-status meteorologists must have taken a bevy of classes, including: meteorology, differential and integral calculus, differential equations, college physics, statistics, computer science, chemistry, physical oceanography, or physical climatology. To be an operational meteorologist (weather forecaster), a minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required. To conduct research and development, a master’s degree is asked for; to hold most research positions, a Ph.D is usually compulsory. Despite the tough requirements for becoming a meteorologist, many people pursue the career, intrigued and curious of the insurmountable force of weather.