Defense meteorologist

What does a Defense Meteorologist do? – Tasks and Working Environment

A Defense Meteorologist is responsible for analyzing, interpreting, and communicating weather information with a particular focus on military operations and defense-related missions. The work involves collecting meteorological data, performing advanced forecasts, and supporting decision-makers within the Armed Forces with risk assessments related to weather and climate. Typically, a Defense Meteorologist works closely with other experts in the defense sector, requiring both technical expertise and the ability to communicate complex information under time pressure. The working environment can range from office settings to fieldwork during military exercises, where flexibility and precision are crucial to ensure safety and success in various defense operations.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for a Defense Meteorologist has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,400 kronor per month, increasing to 43 800 kronor in 2023. The latest data from 2024 indicates an average salary of 46 400 kronor per month. The increase between 2022 and 2024 amounts to approximately 12%, indicating a strong demand for qualified expertise in the field. This trend can partly be explained by the increased importance of weather data for military planning and a greater focus on security and preparedness. Additionally, higher educational requirements and technical specialization have contributed to raising salary levels compared to previous years.

Defense Meteorologist Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 46 400 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 41,700 kr/month (female, public sector, postgraduate degree)
• Highest salary: 53,700 kr/month (male, private sector, postgraduate degree)
• Hourly wage: 279 kr
• Gender differences: Highest salary for men 53,700 kr, for women 41,900 kr; lowest salary for men 44,400 kr, for women 41,700 kr
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and Qualifications

The pathway to becoming a Defense Meteorologist involves an academic education in meteorology, often supplemented with specialized courses or internships within the defense sector. A master's degree is common, and many also hold doctoral studies. Practical experience, such as trainee programs or internships within the Armed Forces, is often advantageous and may be decisive for employment. Besides technical skills, strong analytical ability and the capacity to work systematically under pressure are required.

• Formal degree: Civil engineer or master's in meteorology (5 years)
• Specialized courses: Military applications of meteorology
• Internship/Trainee: Recommended within the Armed Forces or SMHI
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented upper secondary education
• Certifications: Possible through international meteorological organizations

Common Benefits and Compensation

Defense Meteorologists are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Access to occupational pensions, insurance, and sometimes field or exercise allowances are also common. For international assignments, per diems and additional compensation may apply.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Defense Meteorologist is relatively limited, as it is a narrow and specialized field. The number of available jobs is small compared to the number of qualified candidates, but the high level of specialization means competition mainly occurs among those with advanced education and experience. A significant challenge is staying up-to-date with rapid technological developments and new analysis tools. Additionally, the ability to work effectively under stressful conditions, especially during military operations, is essential. Combining scientific accuracy with operational speed is key to success in this role.

Tips for Aspiring Defense Meteorologists

To succeed as a Defense Meteorologist, it’s beneficial to combine analytical skills with an interest in technology and societal security. A careful and methodical work style helps manage complex weather data and produce reliable forecasts even under tight deadlines. It’s also important to be communicative and able to explain advanced meteorological concepts to non-specialists, especially in demanding defense contexts. Engagement in staying updated on technological advances and developments in meteorology is a major advantage, as is flexibility to work both in offices and in the field. The ability to collaborate in teams and demonstrate responsibility toward colleagues and the defense operations is central to thriving and developing in the profession.

Key Facts about Defense Meteorologists

• Educational level: Master's or doctoral studies in meteorology
• Work environment: Both office and fieldwork during military exercises
• Job openings in the profession: 143 (2024)
• Typical employment form: Full-time, often in the public sector or the Armed Forces
• Special skills: Military applications of meteorology and advanced data analysis

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Defense Meteorologist, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles within military staff, take responsibility for larger projects, or work in training and mentoring new colleagues. Some choose to deepen their research or participate in international missions, such as within NATO or the UN. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for meteorologists, no specific assessment is made for Defense Meteorologists, but the profession has a total of 143 registered job openings. The lack of detailed forecasts is due to the niche nature of the field and limited data for reliable statistics. The future outlook is considered stable but highly dependent on defense sector investments and technological development in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions about Defense Meteorologists

• What does a Defense Meteorologist earn?
  - A Defense Meteorologist has an average salary of 46 400 kronor per month.
• What education is required to become a Defense Meteorologist?
  - A master's degree or doctoral studies in meteorology are usually required.
• Are there large salary differences between men and women?
  - Highest salary for men 53,700 kr, for women 41,900 kr; lowest salary for men 44,400 kr, for women 41,700 kr.
• What is the working environment like for a Defense Meteorologist?
  - The working environment varies between office and fieldwork, often in close collaboration with military units.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Approximately 143 job openings in the meteorologist profession (2024).
• What benefits are typically offered?
  - Extra vacation days, wellness allowances, skills development, and occupational pension.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No specific forecast, but the outlook is considered stable within the defense sector.