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How Do I Become an Environmental Meteorologist?

YaShekia King
YaShekia King

Environmental meteorologists are professionals who analyze issues related to the environment and strive to make recommendations for how to tackle these problems in an effort to preserve the health of the planet. These people must be able to work well independently, as well as to collaborate with other researchers and scientists in a team setting. An individual who seeks to become an environmental meteorologist should be prepared to complete four years of post-secondary training and work in a real-world setting to build his or her skills. In addition, gaining certification in the industry will make claiming job opportunities for him or her easier over time.

If you want to become an environmental meteorologist, you need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science or meteorology. To enroll in this type of college you program, you might be required to send in your most current standardized test results and should also fill out your desired school’s admission application. You additionally need to submit your high school transcript and high school diploma or the equivalent certification.

Tropical storm viewed from space.
Tropical storm viewed from space.

Environmental classes will give you the foundation that you need to be successful in the industry. For example, you need to study physical oceanography, as well as focus on topics including climate change and aspects of the upper atmosphere. Understanding these concepts is necessary if you aim to become an environmental meteorologist because this type of professional is responsible for exploring solutions to problems such as clean water shortages and identifying links between air pollution and changes in the planet’s climate.

Acquiring firsthand experience in this career area buttresses your employment opportunities. During an internship, which is available at government agencies, you can practice producing reports on air quality as you work to become an environmental meteorologist. You must hone your skills in gathering data and interpreting statistics, as well as developing solutions to natural world problems. In addition, you should get used to doing a lot of traveling and working in a variety of weather conditions when completing field tasks.

Even though employers do not necessarily require job candidates in this field to be certified, acquiring certification makes you more competitive when you begin searching for work. You can earn designations through industry societies by taking and passing exams, and this will enable you to advance in your career area. When you become an environmental meteorologist, you then have to complete continuing education courses to maintain your credentials.

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    • Tropical storm viewed from space.
      Tropical storm viewed from space.