Advance Your Career as a Lead Meteorologist with NOAA
Are you ready to combine your expertise in atmospheric science with a leadership role that directly impacts public safety? The National Weather Service (NWS) is currently hiring a Lead Meteorologist in Fairbanks, Alaska, offering a unique opportunity to provide high-impact weather forecasting in a critically important region.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Meteorologist, your duties extend beyond standard forecasting. You will:
- Serve as Shift Leader: Ensure the quality and timeliness of all NWS forecasts and warnings.
- Analyze Weather Phenomena: Interpret Doppler radar and satellite data to identify hazardous conditions.
- Act as a Liaison: Communicate directly with agencies like FEMA, the FAA, and local law enforcement during emergencies.
- Office Management: Oversee shift administration, including staffing and scheduling.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet rigorous academic and professional standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Meteorology/Atmospheric Science with 24+ semester hours in related courses. |
| Specialized Experience | 1 year of experience equivalent to GS-12, including briefing decision-makers. |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship is strictly required. |
| Security | Must be able to pass a moderate-risk security investigation. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $120,348 to $156,455 per year. In addition to base pay, employees in Fairbanks receive a 1.49% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), which is tax-exempt. Beyond the salary, the federal package includes comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement benefits, and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool ensures you include all necessary federal data requirements.
- Review your Transcripts: Ensure your coursework is clearly categorized on your transcript.
- Stay Active: Use an email address you check daily throughout the hiring process.
If you have the technical expertise and the leadership skills to guide weather operations in one of the most unique climates in the U.S., we encourage you to apply. This role offers not just a career, but a chance to serve the public in a profound way. Ensure your application package is complete and submitted before the closing date.
Why This Lead Meteorologist Job Matters
Take your meteorology career to the final frontier! Lead critical forecasting efforts in Fairbanks, Alaska, and serve as a vital partner in public safety and emergency management.
Lead Meteorologist Job Overview
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a skilled Lead Meteorologist to join the National Weather Service (NWS) team in Fairbanks, Alaska. This role is pivotal in safeguarding lives and property, serving as a primary link between weather data and local emergency management, aviation, and law enforcement. As a shift leader, you will oversee the precision and delivery of high-stakes forecasts, warnings, and public advisories in a challenging and dynamic Arctic environment.
Requirements for Lead Meteorologist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be suitable for Federal employment based on a background investigation.
- Must be registered for Selective Service (if applicable).
- Must meet OPM specialized experience and education requirements by the closing date.
- Ability to work rotating shifts in a 24/7 operations environment.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level (or equivalent).
- Positive education requirement: Degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or related field with specific credit hour mandates in atmospheric dynamics, synoptic weather, and physics.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Meteorologist
- Demonstrated ability to interpret complex Doppler radar and satellite imagery.
- Experience providing authoritative briefings to high-level decision-makers.
- Proven track record in managing hydrometeorological watch and warning processes.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with interagency partners like FEMA or the FAA.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health and life insurance programs
- ✓Generous retirement plans (FERS)
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave
- ✓Relocation expense reimbursement (PCS) may be authorized
- ✓Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for Alaska employees
- ✓Continuous professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Lead Meteorologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Meteorologist Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) using the USAJOBS Resume Builder.
- Gather your official or unofficial college transcripts.
- If a former Federal employee, download your most recent SF-50.
- Click 'Apply Online' on the official vacancy page.
- Complete all required questionnaires and assessment components.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in months and years, including hours per week for part-time work.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to avoid common formatting pitfalls.
- Double-check your transcripts to ensure they reflect the mandatory 24 semester hours in meteorology.
- Submit your application early to allow time for technical troubleshooting.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for assessments, request it as early as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, payment of relocation expenses (PCS) may be authorized for this position.
Do I need to submit transcripts if I currently work for NOAA?
If you are currently in a 1340 series position within NOAA and applying via competitive merit promotion, you may be exempt from submitting transcripts.
How long should my resume be?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer; applications exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its National Weather Service serve as the backbone of meteorological safety in the United States. Through cutting-edge research, sophisticated instrumentation, and a network of dedicated professionals, NOAA provides the essential information needed by citizens, planners, and emergency managers to navigate weather-related hazards. Working with the NWS means contributing to a mission that supports the economic vitality of the nation while saving lives.