Become a Lead Meteorologist with the U.S. Navy

Are you ready to take your career to the forefront of global weather intelligence? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring a Meteorologist to join the elite team at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This is a unique opportunity to work in a high-stakes environment where your forecasts directly influence the safety and mission success of U.S. military operations across the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Meteorologist (Typhoon Duty Officer), your primary focus will be the tropical cyclone forecast mission. Key responsibilities include:

Operational Forecasting: Producing track, intensity, and structure warnings under strict deadlines.
Data Synthesis: Interpreting satellite imagery, radar data, and NWP model guidance.
Team Leadership: Serving as the on-shift forecast lead for a four-person watch team.
System Proficiency: Expert-level operation of specialized systems such as ATCF and AWIPS.
Analysis and Mentorship: Conducting post-storm technical analysis and providing on-the-job training for team members.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific OPM standards:

Education Requirements

Degree: Meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related natural science.
Coursework: 24 semester hours including specific atmospheric dynamics, thermodynamics, synoptic analysis, and remote sensing.
Prerequisite: Calculus is required for atmospheric dynamics and physics coursework.

Experience Requirements

Position Level	Specialized Experience Requirement
GS-12	1 year of developmental forecasting and data synthesis support
GS-13	1 year of authoritative lead forecaster experience

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range of $93,445 to $144,457 per year, depending on the grade level and experience. Federal positions also come with generous retirement planning, health benefits, and leave accrual.

Application Tips

Be Specific: Your resume is your primary tool. Quantify your experience with specific software and forecasting milestones.
Transcript Accuracy: Do not forget to attach your transcripts; applications without them are automatically disqualified.
Assessments: Be prepared to set aside time for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if you are invited to complete them.
Check Deadlines: Submit your application package well before the closing date to avoid technical hurdles.

This position is more than just a job; it is a service-oriented career that safeguards lives and assets. If you have the expertise, the drive for excellence, and the passion for meteorology, we encourage you to apply for this vital role at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Pearl Harbor.

Why This Meteorologist Job Matters

Take command of the skies! Become a vital part of the Joint Typhoon Warning Center and provide critical weather intelligence that safeguards U.S. military interests and personnel across the globe.

Meteorologist Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a skilled Meteorologist to serve within the Forecast Operations division at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. In this mission-critical role, you will perform the Department of Defense’s sole tropical cyclone forecast operation. You will lead watch teams, analyze complex atmospheric data, and issue authoritative warnings that inform global strategic decisions.

Requirements for Meteorologist

Bachelor’s degree in Meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related natural science with at least 24 semester hours of specific meteorological coursework.
Must meet OPM educational standards, including credits in atmospheric dynamics, synoptic/mesoscale analysis, physical meteorology, and remote sensing.
For GS-13: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level (or equivalent) in tropical cyclone forecasting and data flow management.
For GS-12: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (or equivalent) in developmental forecasting support.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Transcripts must be submitted at the time of application to verify education requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Meteorologist

Proven experience leading 24/7 operational forecast watch teams.
Expertise in operating meteorological software such as ATCF (Automated Tropical Cyclone Forecast) and AWIPS.
Strong technical writing skills for post-storm analysis and formal reports.
Ability to conduct on-the-job training and mentorship for junior forecasters.
Exceptional problem-solving abilities and resilience in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
✓Federal Retirement Programs
✓Paid Federal Holidays and Leave
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates

💡 How to Apply Meteorologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Meteorologist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your specific meteorological experience.
Submit your online application through USAJobs, including all required transcripts and supporting documentation.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within 48 hours of notification if prompted.
Monitor your status via the USAJobs application tracking portal.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure all necessary professional data points are included.
Explicitly detail your specialized experience, focusing on specific software used and the scope of your forecasting responsibilities.
Ensure your transcripts verify all required semester hours in specific atmospheric science subjects.
Redact sensitive personal information like SSNs from supporting documents to protect your identity.
Apply well before the deadline to accommodate potential technical issues or assessment requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of the Joint Typhoon Warning Center?

The JTWC is responsible for the Department of Defense's tropical cyclone forecast mission, providing critical warnings and intelligence to protect military installations and assets globally.

Can I apply if I don't have a degree in meteorology?

No, this position requires specific educational credits in meteorology and atmospheric sciences as outlined by the Office of Personnel Management. Transcripts are mandatory.

Is relocation assistance available?

Relocation incentives may be authorized for eligible selectees, depending on funding and organizational policy.

Job from United States Fleet Forces Command

The Department of the Navy provides a dynamic and mission-driven work environment where civilian scientists play a vital role in national security. Working at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, you will collaborate with joint service teams to provide authoritative, time-critical weather data. The Navy prides itself on fostering professional growth, offering competitive pay scales, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports the long-term well-being of its employees.