Meteorologist : Training

The majority of meteorologists in the UK start their careers with the Met Office , undertaking an initial training period of six months at the Met Office College in Exeter.

Training for meteorologists covers the following areas:

• forecasting;
• numerical weather prediction;
• general meteorology.

Following this, ongoing training is actively encouraged and is considered to be a vital part of career development. Training might include courses on programming, mathematical modelling, graphics and presentation skills. Meteorologists working for other employers may also attend training courses at the Met Office, in areas such as broadcasting, forecasting for particular transport sectors, or climate change.

Some meteorologists are given sponsorship to study for an MSc, MPhil or PhD.

In addition, the Royal Meteorological Society  organises professional meetings and provides a route to Chartered Meteorologist status (CMet), and to Fellowship on completion of a science degree and five years’ relevant experience.

If you work in academic research, you will be expected to have sufficient research skills and be able to make an immediate contribution. Part of your ongoing development will be to keep up to date with advances in the field by reading the appropriate literature, attending and presenting at conferences and networking with colleagues.