The median annual wage for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists was $89,820 in May 2015.
The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,630, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $132,180.
In May 2015, the median annual wages for atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:
Federal government
$99,920
Television broadcasting
88,060
Professional, scientific, and technical services
87,370
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private
71,010
Most atmospheric scientists work full time. Weather conditions can change quickly, so weather forecasters need to continuously monitor conditions. Many, especially entry-level staff at field stations, work rotating shifts to cover all 24 hours in a day, and they work on nights, weekends, and holidays to provide the most current weather information. In addition, they work extended hours during severe weather, such as hurricanes. Other atmospheric scientists have a standard workweek, although researchers may work nights and weekends on particular projects.
Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists
Median annual wages, May 2015
Atmospheric scientists, including meteorologists
$89,820
Life, physical, and social science occupations
$62,160
Total, all occupations
$36,200
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics