Meteorologist Assistant, Defense

What does a meteorological assistant in the defense do? – Tasks and work environment

Meteorological assistants in the defense play a central role in supporting military operations with weather-related information and technical support. Their tasks include collecting, analyzing, and reporting meteorological data, handling measurement instruments, and communicating weather forecasts to commanders and field personnel. The work often involves close collaboration with meteorologists and technicians, where accuracy and efficiency are crucial for success. The work environment can vary between office-based assignments at military facilities and more field-based work during exercises or missions, requiring both technical skills and good teamwork.

Salary development over time

The salary for meteorological assistants in the defense has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,800 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 39 400 SEK, an increase of about 7%. In 2024, the average salary increased further to 40 300 SEK, a growth of just over 2% compared to the previous year. The development is partly explained by increased demand for technical skills within the defense sector and general salary adjustments within the profession. The pay gap between genders has remained relatively constant, with women earning around 97% of men's salaries. Overall, the profession has benefited from the general salary increase in public and technical services.

Meteorological assistant in the defense salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 48,100 SEK/month
• Hourly rate (average): 242 SEK
• Women earn: 39 400 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 40 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a meteorological assistant in the defense, a high school diploma with a technical or scientific focus is usually required, preferably supplemented with specialized courses in meteorology and IT. Practical experience in technical support, data processing, or similar tasks is often advantageous. The Armed Forces may also offer internal training and induction programs for new employees.

• High school diploma: Science or technical focus (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Meteorology, IT support, data processing
• Internship/trainee: Common within the Armed Forces' induction programs
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics and physics
• Certifications: Meritorious but not required, e.g., IT security or instrument handling

Common benefits and compensations

Meteorological assistants in the defense are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pension, insurance, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development. Other benefits may include paid overtime, extra vacation days, and access to the Armed Forces' facilities for training and recreation. In some cases, relocation support is offered for those changing duty stations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a meteorological assistant in the defense is considered moderate, but since the profession is part of a broader support group (support technicians, IT), job availability varies over time. A challenge is that the role requires both technical skills and understanding of military routines, which can limit the number of applicants with the right profile. Since tasks are sometimes performed under time pressure and in security-classified environments, high reliability and stress tolerance are required. Limited information about future recruitment needs makes it difficult to predict long-term prospects, but technological development and digitalization suggest continued demand for the role.

Tips for those who want to become a meteorological assistant in the defense

To succeed as a meteorological assistant in the defense, it is good to have analytical skills and an interest in technology, which facilitates handling advanced equipment and weather data. Precision is an important trait, especially when forecasts and measurement results are to be reported to military decision-makers. Being flexible and stress-resistant is recommended, as the work situation can change quickly and require immediate action. Good teamwork skills are also valuable, as work often occurs in teams and in close dialogue with meteorologists and military personnel. For those looking to increase their chances of employment, supplementing high school education with courses in IT or meteorology can be beneficial. Showing interest in the Armed Forces' activities and participating in relevant internship programs are additional ways to strengthen your profile. Finally, initiative and a structured work approach are appreciated, especially in environments where safety and precision are critical.

Key facts about meteorological assistant in the defense

• Educational level: High school diploma with a technical or scientific focus
• Work environment: Both office- and field-based within military operations
• Professional group: Support technicians, IT
• Demand: 179 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Weather data analysis, technical instrument support

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a meteorological assistant in the defense, opportunities exist to advance to more qualified roles such as senior meteorological assistant or technical specialist within weather services. Some choose to further their education as meteorologists or switch to other technical positions within the defense sector. Forecasts from the Employment Service do not provide a specific assessment for the profession due to limited data, but technological advances and increased safety requirements related to weather suggest continued relevance. Within the support technician group, IT, where meteorological assistants are included, there were 179 job openings in spring 2024, indicating ongoing demand. Long-term prospects are influenced by the Armed Forces' needs and technological progress.

Frequently asked questions about meteorological assistant in the defense

• What does a meteorological assistant in the defense earn?
  - The average salary is 40 300 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of 242 SEK.
• What education is required to become a meteorological assistant in the defense?
  - High school education with a technical or scientific focus is recommended, preferably supplemented with specialized courses.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 97% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Collection and analysis of weather data, technical support, and reporting to military units.
• What are the prospects for the future?
  - Forecasts are lacking due to limited data, but there is demand within the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary?
  - The highest salary is 48,100 SEK, and the lowest is 36,800 SEK per month.
• Which personal qualities facilitate success in the role?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, flexibility, and teamwork skills are particularly important.