Lead Meteorologist: Advance Your Career with the National Weather Service

Do you have a passion for meteorology and a commitment to public safety? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently seeking experienced Lead Meteorologists to join the National Weather Service (NWS). This is a unique opportunity to lead forecasting operations in a high-stakes environment, providing crucial information to protect lives and property.

Job Responsibilities

As a Lead Meteorologist, your primary duties involve:

Operational Leadership: Serving as shift lead to ensure the quality and accuracy of all NWS products.
Severe Weather Analysis: Interpreting Doppler radar and satellite data to formulate life-saving watches and warnings.
Decision Support: Providing briefings to high-level officials and emergency managers during hazardous weather.

Comparison: Meteorologist Roles

Feature	Lead Meteorologist	Junior Forecaster
Scope of Responsibility	Full shift oversight	Assigned forecasting tasks
Decision Support	High-level agency contact	Internal reporting
Experience Required	GS-12 equivalent	Entry-level to GS-11

Requirements

To be considered for the GS-13 Lead Meteorologist position, you must:

Meet positive education requirements (degrees in atmospheric sciences with specific math/physics credits).
Possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Be a U.S. citizen capable of passing a Moderate Risk background investigation.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range between $106,437 and $142,755 per year, depending on the specific office location and the candidate's qualifications.

Benefits

Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement pension plan, matching contributions to the Thrift Savings Plan, and extensive paid leave.

Application Tips

Use the official Resume Builder to avoid common formatting errors.
Clearly define your experience with hazardous weather briefings.
Ensure your transcripts are attached unless you are currently an NWS 1340 series employee.

If you are an expert in atmospheric science looking to lead, the NWS offers an unparalleled platform to make a difference. Apply before the closing date to join our team.

Why This Lead Meteorologist Job Matters

Shape the future of public safety by leading critical meteorological operations at the National Weather Service.

Lead Meteorologist Job Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking skilled Lead Meteorologists to join our Weather Forecast Offices nationwide. In this pivotal leadership role, you will oversee the issuance of life-saving weather forecasts, watches, and warnings. You will serve as a primary expert for government partners and emergency management agencies, ensuring that accurate, real-time data is disseminated to protect communities during hazardous weather events.

Requirements for Lead Meteorologist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must undergo a Moderate Risk background investigation.
Must meet OPM qualification standards for the 1340 Meteorology series.
Must hold a degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or a related natural science with specific credit requirements in atmospheric dynamics, synoptic/mesoscale analysis, physics, and calculus-based mathematics.
Must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Must register for the Selective Service if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications for Lead Meteorologist

Experience in providing high-level briefings to emergency management or government decision-makers.
Proven expertise in analyzing synoptic and mesoscale weather systems.
Demonstrated ability to lead shift operations and maintain strict quality control under tight deadlines.
Experience managing administrative office functions, including scheduling and staff coordination.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance programs
✓Retirement benefits and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Professional development and training opportunities
✓Relocation expense reimbursement for eligible candidates

💡 How to Apply Lead Meteorologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Lead Meteorologist Job

Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your specific meteorology experience.
Log in or create an account on the official federal job portal.
Submit your application and required supporting documents, including college transcripts.
Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
Monitor your email for a notification to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if applicable.

💡 General Tips

Use the built-in resume builder to ensure all necessary federal formatting requirements are met.
Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in providing hazardous weather briefings.
Check your application status regularly through your candidate profile.
Complete the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link to avoid technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific education requirements for this role?

Yes, this position requires a degree in Meteorology or a related science including specific coursework in atmospheric dynamics, physics, and calculus-based math.

Will I have to work nights or weekends?

Yes. Weather Forecast Offices operate 24/7, and this position requires rotating shifts.

Can I work remotely?

This position requires onsite presence at a Weather Forecast Office to manage equipment and local operations.

What is the selection process?

Candidates are evaluated based on application materials, background, and required competency-based assessments.

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA is a premier scientific agency responsible for enriching life through science. The National Weather Service, a vital part of NOAA, provides weather, water, and climate data, forecasts, and warnings for the protection of life and property. Working at an NWS Weather Forecast Office puts you at the front lines of climate monitoring and severe storm safety.