Meteorological Technical Officer
Summary
Meteorological technical officers use scientific instrumentation and electronic equipment to collect and record meteorological data (such as air temperature, barometric pressure, wind speed and direction, humidity, rainfall, evaporation and cloud type) for climate, forecasting and aviation purposes.
Duties & Tasks
Meteorological technical officers may perform the following tasks:
- monitor surface and upper-air meteorological conditions using specialist equipment
- perform basic, non-electronic maintenance and repair of specialist meteorological equipment
- perform data communication functions and provide support to meteorologists
- operate specialised meteorological computing systems in order to control the quality of incoming data and prepare reports
- monitor and develop new systems of observation and provide research support
- collate and distribute statistics, maps, forecasts and other meteorological information to clients, the media and the general public
- supervise volunteer observers, who provide reports on surface weather conditions
- manage field offices, including administration, public relations and media liaison.
Working Conditions
Meteorological technical officers may work with meteorologists and must be prepared to work in tropical and remote locations. Depending on assigned duties, the work may be carried out indoors or outdoors, in large offices or in small remote field stations. Shiftwork is usually required.
Personal Requirements
- enquiring mind and analytical ability
- able to think creatively and solve problems
- able to work accurately and systematically
- able to work independently or as part of a team
- able to endure isolation
- an aptitude for electronics.
