Meteorologist / Atmospheric Scientist
Predict weather and study the atmosphere.
About the Career
Stable government hiring. Broadcast meteorology is shrinking, but research/aviation is stable.
Salary in Canada
- Entry level: $60,000
- Senior level: $110,000
Environment Canada is the primary employer.
Job Outlook
Stable demand. Stable government hiring. Broadcast meteorology is shrinking, but research/aviation is stable.
How to Get There
- 4-yr BSc (Atmospheric Science / Physics) + Specialized Training
- Time to career: 4-6 years post-Grade 12
Key Skills
- Weather Modelling & Forecasting
- Atmospheric Physics
- Data Analysis
- Radar & Satellite Interpretation
- Scientific Communication
Typical Employers
- Environment & Climate Change Canada
- Aviation & marine weather services
- Broadcast media
- Research institutions
- Energy & agriculture sectors
High School Roadmap
- Take Science and Math.
- Focus on Physics and Geography.
- Maintain high grades in Calculus and Physics.
- Apply to Atmospheric Science programs. York and McGill are excellent.
Top Universities for This Path
- McGill University – Montreal, QC
- University of British Columbia – Vancouver, BC
- York University – Toronto, ON
- University of Toronto – Toronto, ON
- Dalhousie University – Halifax, NS
Insider Tips
- Requires very heavy math and physics (fluid dynamics, thermodynamics).
- Environment Canada hires meteorologists through a competitive process - bilingualism helps.
- Aviation meteorology is a well-paid niche serving airlines and NAV CANADA.