Weather Observer Career Description
One of the functions of the Weather Bureau is to conduct surface weather observations across the whole country, and this is precisely the task of the weather observer.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Weather observers must observe the different elements of the weather each day at the specified times with the aid of meteorological instruments, and also record these observations. Certain elements such as visibility and the amount and type of clouds, are observed without instruments and determined according to specific classifications. All this information is then compiled in weather reports with the aid of international codes, and transmitted nationally and internationally by means of the Weather Bureau's communication system.
The changes in temperature humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed at different heights, is determined twice a day at certain stations. Weather observers must be able to conduct these upper-air ascends independently and correctly. This information is then also transmitted world wide to various stations with the aid of international codes and the communication system. One of the factors determining the accuracy of weather observations is the reliability of the measuring instruments that are used. Weather observers must thus be able to keep these instruments in an excellent working condition.
The nature of the services rendered by the Weather Bureau to aviation, for example, as well as ensuring continuity of data, makes it necessary to conduct observations each day of the week. Weather observations are done at prescribed times from early in the morning till late at night, and some offices are open 24 hours a day. It is thus necessary for weather observers to work shifts.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
The reliability of weather forecasts or any research making use of meteorological data is based mainly on the accuracy of the weather observations. Weather observers must thus be reliable persons who are able to perform tasks regularly and accurately.
Where can I work?
Deserving candidates can advance in the following ranks: Senior Weather Observer, Principal Weather Observer, and Control Weather Observer. Weather observers are employed by the Department of Environment Affairs or at a weather office.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Weather observers are necessarily employed by the Department of Environment Affairs.
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