Meteorologists work across forecasting, research, and public communication. The role is dynamic and demands accuracy, especially during severe weather events. Forecast Weather – analyse atmospheric data to predict short- and long-term conditions Gather Data – collect readings from satellites, radar, weather balloons, and ground stations Issue Warnings – alert emergency services and the public to dangerous weather events Prepare Reports – create maps, charts, and written...

Strong maths and physics knowledge Atmospheric and climate science understanding Data analysis and statistical interpretation Numerical weather modelling and simulation Use of satellite, radar, and sensor data Meteorological software proficiency (including programming, e.g. Python) Clear written and verbal communication Data visualisation and mapping skills Problem-solving under time pressure Attention to detail and accuracy Teamwork and cross-agency collaboration Adaptability to changing condit...

How to Become A Meteorologist

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What is a Meteorologist

A meteorologist studies the atmosphere to predict weather. They use data from satellites, radar, and weather stations to make accurate forecasts. These forecasts help the public, farmers, pilots, and emergency services stay safe. It is a career that blends science, tech, and real impact.

In Australia, most meteorologists work for the Bureau of Meteorology, which covers the whole country. Others work in private weather services, defence, aviation, farming, and research at places like CSIRO. The field is small but growing, with only around 710 employed nationally. Future demand is rated as strong by Jobs and Skills Australia (2025).

Day to day, they analyse weather data, build forecast models, issue severe weather warnings, and share findings with the public. The role needs strong maths and physics skills, plus clear communication.

As climate change boosts the frequency of extreme weather events, meteorologists play an even bigger role in keeping communities safe. This is a career that truly matters, and the science behind it keeps evolving.

Career Outlook for Meteorologist

Meteorology is a small but growing field in Australia. Around 710 people work as meteorologists nationally, and Jobs and Skills Australia (2025) rates future demand as strong. Most work full-time, averaging 39 hours per week. Median weekly earnings are $2,052, or about $107,000 a year. The median age is 42, which means steady job openings will emerge as people retire over the next decade.

The Bureau of Meteorology is the main employer, with offices in every state and territory. CSIRO, Defence, private weather firms, aviation companies, and research bodies also hire meteorologists. As extreme weather events grow more common due to climate change, demand is rising. This growth spans emergency management, insurance, farming, and climate consulting.

This is a career with direct public impact every day. Meteorologists help communities prepare for cyclones, bushfires, floods, and heatwaves. Their research shapes national climate policy. Entry needs a university degree and a graduate training program. It is hard to get into but very worth it for those with strong science and maths skills.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Meteorologist

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Science (3-4 years full-time)

Start with a bachelor’s degree in physics, maths, environmental science, or atmospheric science. This takes three to four years full-time at an Australian university. Strong results in maths and physics are needed to enter competitive graduate programs. Check with your preferred university about study options in meteorology or climate science. University degrees in Australia are not VET qualifications and do not carry national training codes from training.gov.au.

Step 2: Apply for the Bureau of Meteorology Graduate Meteorologist Training Program

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Graduate Meteorologist Training Program is the main path into weather forecasting in Australia. The program is competitive and requires a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field. Applications open each year through the BoM website. The program runs for two years and blends on-the-job training with formal postgraduate study.

Step 3: Complete the Graduate Diploma of Meteorology (2 years)

As part of the BoM Graduate Program, complete the Graduate Diploma of Meteorology. This two-year award is delivered in partnership with the University of Melbourne. It covers weather forecast models, weather dynamics, and day-to-day forecasting. Graduates meet the standards set by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for professional meteorologists.

Step 4: Join the Australian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society (AMOS)

Join AMOS to access professional networks, journals, and events across the weather and ocean science community. AMOS membership links meteorologists with peers in government, research, and private industry. It is the recognised professional body for meteorologists in Australia. Membership is open at different levels to suit new graduates and those with more experience.

Step 5: Build Expert Knowledge and Advance Your Career

After gaining day-to-day experience, develop an expert focus area. Options include climate modelling, severe weather research, ocean and weather science, aviation weather, or climate consulting. Many meteorologists complete an honours degree, master’s degree, or PhD for research or policy roles. Ongoing development through AMOS events, workshops, and journals keeps skills sharp in a fast-moving field.

What does a Meteorologist do?

A meteorologist’s day blends data work, forecasting, research, and public communication. They start by checking the latest satellite images, radar feeds, and model outputs to build or update forecasts. They issue warnings for severe events like cyclones, floods, and heatwaves, and brief emergency services on risk. They also write reports, prepare maps, and help with long-term climate research. No two days are the same, especially when extreme weather hits.

Tasks

Meteorologists work across forecasting, research, and public communication. The role is dynamic and demands accuracy, especially during severe weather events.

Forecast Weather – analyse atmospheric data to predict short- and long-term conditions
Gather Data – collect readings from satellites, radar, weather balloons, and ground stations
Issue Warnings – alert emergency services and the public to dangerous weather events
Prepare Reports – create maps, charts, and written briefings for government and industry
Communicate Publicly – share weather updates via TV, radio, online platforms, and direct briefings
Conduct Research – study climate change, atmospheric phenomena, and new forecasting methods
Advise Emergency Agencies – provide real-time weather data during floods, cyclones, and bushfires
Operate Equipment – use and maintain weather sensors, balloons, radar, and satellite systems

Skills for Success

A career in meteorology starts with a strong base in maths and physics. These subjects drive everything from weather modelling to data work. The field rewards curiosity and persistence, and these skills grow over time.

Strong digital skills are also key. Modern meteorology relies on software, computer models, and large datasets. Being at ease with Python or other coding tools is a real plus as a career grows.

Communication rounds out the core skill set. Writing a report, presenting on TV, or briefing an emergency agency all need clear, plain speech and writing. Teamwork, attention to detail, and staying calm in a crisis are also key. These traits define a good meteorologist.

Skills & Attributes

Strong maths and physics knowledge
Atmospheric and climate science understanding
Data analysis and statistical interpretation
Numerical weather modelling and simulation
Use of satellite, radar, and sensor data
Meteorological software proficiency (including programming, e.g. Python)
Clear written and verbal communication
Data visualisation and mapping skills
Problem-solving under time pressure
Attention to detail and accuracy
Teamwork and cross-agency collaboration
Adaptability to changing conditions and new technology
Research and scientific reporting
Public presentation skills
Critical thinking and scientific judgement

Average Salaries

Meteorologists in Australia earn a median of around $2,052 per week (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). That equals about $107,000 a year. Entry-level roles typically start around $70,000 a year. Senior and expert roles can reach $145,000 or more. Pay varies with employer, location, experience, and area of focus.

min $70 K

max $145 K

av $107 K

Resources For Meteorologists

- Australian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society (AMOS)
- Your Career — Meteorologist occupation profile

Jobs and Skills Australia — Meteorologists occupation profile

About the author

Laura Atkinson

Explore career guides by Laura Atkinson. Practical how-to-become advice on qualifications, skills, salary and job outlook across Australia.