Meteorology Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of climate change, the focus on meteorology professors has never been greater.
As the world’s climate continues to shift, the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can analyze, predict, and educate on atmospheric phenomena grows stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a meteorology professor?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply captivated by the complex field of meteorology,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable meteorology professor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or academic career sites.
Let’s delve right into it.
Meteorology Professor Duties and Responsibilities
Meteorology Professors are responsible for teaching students about various aspects of meteorology, including atmospheric science, weather systems, and climate patterns.
They also contribute to the field through research and publications.
The duties and responsibilities of a Meteorology Professor include:
- Developing and delivering lectures on a wide range of meteorological topics
- Creating, administering, and grading examinations to assess student understanding and progress
- Guiding and advising students on academic and career matters
- Conducting research in the field of meteorology and publishing findings in academic journals
- Keeping up to date with the latest developments and advancements in the field of meteorology
- Participating in departmental and university meetings, committees, and activities
- Seeking and applying for research grants and funding
- Supervising students’ research projects or theses
- Developing curriculum and coursework for meteorology courses
- Providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students
Meteorology Professor Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking an experienced and knowledgeable Meteorology Professor to join our academic team.
The Meteorology Professor will be responsible for providing high-quality instruction in meteorology courses, conducting research in the field of meteorology, and participating in service to the university and community.
Candidates should have a solid understanding of meteorology, climatology, and atmospheric sciences, and should be familiar with the use of various meteorological tools and techniques.
The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to curriculum development and academic advising, while staying updated with advancements in their field of expertise.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and deliver lectures on meteorology and related subjects
- Conduct research in the field of meteorology
- Supervise student research and projects
- Develop and revise curriculum
- Participate in academic advising and student recruitment
- Contribute to the development of the department’s strategic plans
- Participate in departmental, college, and university committees
- Stay updated with advancements in the field of meteorology
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in meteorology or a related field
- Proven experience as a professor or lecturer
- Strong understanding of meteorology and atmospheric science
- Experience with meteorological tools and equipment
- Excellent teaching and research skills
- Published research in reputable journals
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Retirement plan
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
- Relocation assistance
Additional Information
- Job Title: Meteorology Professor
- Work Environment: University setting. Some travel may be required for fieldwork, conferences, or seminars.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Meteorology Department.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy, and examples of published work to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Meteorology Professor Do?
A Meteorology Professor typically works at universities or colleges in the department of earth or environmental sciences.
They might also conduct research for government agencies or private firms.
They teach courses on various aspects of meteorology, including atmospheric science, climate change, weather patterns, and forecasting methods.
They devise lesson plans, deliver lectures, and assess student performance through exams and assignments.
Meteorology Professors often conduct their own research in the field of meteorology, creating and carrying out studies to further understanding of weather patterns and atmospheric phenomena.
They may also write and publish their findings in scientific journals and books, contributing to the body of knowledge within the field.
They are often responsible for advising students, particularly those studying meteorology or related fields at the graduate level.
This can include guiding research projects, assisting with thesis writing, and offering career advice.
In addition, they may attend academic conferences, deliver public talks on weather-related topics, and engage in departmental administrative duties.
As experts in their field, they might also provide consultation to government bodies or businesses on meteorology-related matters.
Meteorology Professor Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Meteorology Professor should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the requirements of this job role, which include:
- Strong understanding and knowledge of atmospheric sciences and meteorology to teach students effectively.
- Excellent communication skills to explain complex meteorological concepts in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
- Research skills to conduct and publish academic studies in the field of meteorology.
- Problem-solving skills to help students understand and apply meteorological concepts in real-world situations.
- Ability to develop and implement a comprehensive curriculum that covers all essential aspects of meteorology.
- Interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with students, faculty, and other professionals in the field.
- Experience with technology and equipment used in meteorological studies and forecast models.
- Ability to supervise and guide students in their research projects and field work.
- Patience and empathy to address students’ queries and concerns effectively.
- Time management skills to balance teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.
Meteorology Professor Experience Requirements
To become a Meteorology Professor, an individual generally needs to hold a doctoral degree in meteorology or a related field like atmospheric sciences or climatology.
This academic journey often provides foundational experience in conducting research, writing scientific papers, and understanding complex meteorological theories and models.
While working on their Ph.D., many individuals gain teaching experience by serving as teaching assistants.
This experience can be invaluable, as it provides firsthand exposure to managing a classroom, creating syllabi, and grading assignments.
After obtaining a Ph.D., individuals often pursue postdoctoral research positions.
This experience, which usually lasts 2 to 3 years, allows them to further refine their research skills, gain additional teaching experience, and expand their knowledge of meteorology.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience post-Ph.D. typically have a substantial body of research published in peer-reviewed journals.
They may also have experience teaching a variety of meteorology courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Those with over 10 years of experience often have held leadership roles in academic or research settings, such as department head or lead researcher.
These seasoned professionals are typically ready for tenured professorships or other high-level academic roles.
In all cases, experience with grant writing and securing funding for research is highly beneficial for a role as a Meteorology Professor.
Meteorology Professor Education and Training Requirements
A Meteorology Professor typically has a Ph.D. in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science or a related field.
This advanced degree requires significant coursework and research in areas such as climate change, air pollution, atmospheric dynamics, and meteorological forecasting.
Along with a Ph.D., prospective professors should have a strong understanding of mathematics and physics, as these are integral to the study and understanding of weather patterns and atmospheric phenomena.
Prior to teaching at the university level, a prospective Meteorology Professor typically gains experience through postdoctoral research positions.
This experience allows them to further hone their research skills and broaden their understanding of the field.
In addition to their academic qualifications, Meteorology Professors should have excellent communication skills, as they are required to effectively communicate complex meteorological concepts to students.
Though not a requirement, some professors may choose to earn certification from organizations such as the American Meteorological Society.
This certification can demonstrate a professor’s commitment to continued learning and mastery of the field.
It is also beneficial for a Meteorology Professor to have a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, as this demonstrates their expertise and contribution to the field.
Meteorology Professor Salary Expectations
A Meteorology Professor earns an average salary of $89,741 (USD) per year.
However, the actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, the prestige of the educational institution, geographical location, and research contributions in the field of meteorology.
Meteorology Professor Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Meteorology Professor need?
A Meteorology Professor needs a strong understanding of atmospheric science and weather systems.
They should be skilled in using meteorological instruments and models.
In addition to this, they should have excellent teaching skills, be able to explain complex ideas in a simple and understandable way, and have a passion for fostering the intellectual growth of their students.
Does a Meteorology Professor need a degree?
Yes, a Meteorology Professor generally requires a doctoral degree in meteorology or a related field.
They may also need several years of experience in the field, either through research or direct meteorological work.
Professors often engage in their own research projects, so experience with research design and data analysis is beneficial.
What should you look for in a Meteorology Professor’s resume?
In a Meteorology Professor’s resume, you should look for a strong educational background in meteorology or a related field, as well as experience with teaching or research.
Additional qualifications could include experience in fieldwork, use of meteorological software, or publication of research in scientific journals.
What qualities make a good Meteorology Professor?
A good Meteorology Professor has a deep passion for the subject and a desire to share that knowledge with others.
They should be patient, approachable, and have the ability to adapt their teaching methods to the needs of individual students.
They also need to stay current with the latest research in the field of meteorology and be skilled at incorporating this new information into their teaching.
Is it difficult to hire a Meteorology Professor?
The difficulty of hiring a Meteorology Professor can depend on various factors such as the location and reputation of the university, the specific requirements of the job, and the current job market.
A niche field like meteorology might have fewer qualified candidates than broader scientific disciplines, making the search potentially more challenging.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve unveiled the truths behind being a meteorology professor.
Surprised?
It’s not just about predicting weather patterns.
It’s about shaping the future generation of climate scientists, one class at a time.
With our ready-to-use meteorology professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to make your next move.
But don’t stop there!
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every weather forecast is a piece of the larger climate puzzle.
Let’s shape the future of meteorology. Together.
How to Become a Meteorology Professor (Complete Guide)
Financial Freedom: The High-Paying Jobs That Can Elevate Your Lifestyle!
Recession-Resilient: Careers That Keep You Secure