Meteorological Assistant, SMHI

What does a meteorological assistant at SMHI do? – Tasks and work environment

Meteorological assistants at SMHI support meteorologists in daily forecasting and analysis work. Tasks include collecting, processing, and quality-assuring meteorological data, monitoring measurement stations, and reporting weather observations. The work is often done in close collaboration with senior meteorologists and technical specialists, with a strong focus on accuracy and reliability. The work environment is largely office-based but can also include outdoor work during field measurements or equipment maintenance. Shift work and standby duties occur, especially during extreme weather events or major weather phenomena.

Salary development over time

The salary for meteorological assistants at SMHI has shown steady positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,700 SEK per month. In 2023, this increased to 39 900 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 3.1%. In 2024, the average salary continues to rise and now amounts to 41 700 SEK per month, representing a further increase of approximately 4.5% from the previous year. This salary trend reflects ongoing demand for technically skilled personnel in meteorology and climate data, as well as a general trend towards higher compensation for specialized roles in science and technology. Factors such as increased digitalization, higher educational requirements, and a greater responsibility for quality assurance have also contributed to strengthening the profession's salary position.

Meteorological Assistant, SMHI salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK (female, private sector employee, high school diploma 3 years)
• Highest salary: 52,000 SEK (female, private sector employee, postgraduate education)
• Highest salary (male): 50,400 SEK
• Lowest salary (male): 37,000 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 251 SEK
• Women earn: 40 900 SEK (96% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 42 600 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as a meteorological assistant at SMHI, a high school diploma with a science or technical focus is usually required, supplemented by post-secondary courses in meteorology, climate, or computer engineering. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in laboratory work or technical maintenance. Internships or trainee positions at SMHI or related organizations can be advantageous. Self-study and online further education in meteorology and data processing increase employment opportunities.

• High school diploma: Science or technical focus (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Meteorology, climate, computer engineering
• Internship/trainee: Meritorious through SMHI or similar organizations
• Certifications: Not formally required, but courses in data processing are positive
• Prerequisites: Basic mathematics and computer skills
• Tips for choosing: Combining technology and science provides the broadest opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Within SMHI, meteorological assistants are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness grants, extra vacation days, and professional development. Shift work may involve overtime pay and flexible working hours. There are also often opportunities for skills development, internal training, and health care.

Competition and challenges

The job market for meteorological assistants is relatively specialized, and competition for positions can vary depending on region and employer. Technical requirements and increased digitalization mean that applicants need to continuously develop their skills in IT and data processing. Limited training places in meteorology make competition for internships and trainee programs tough. At the same time, the tasks are often broad and changing, requiring flexibility and problem-solving skills. A further challenge is the ability to react quickly to changing weather conditions, especially during extreme weather situations.

Tips for those who want to become a meteorological assistant at SMHI

To succeed as a meteorological assistant at SMHI, it is good to combine analytical skills with a strong interest in science and technology. Precision is crucial, especially in data handling and reporting, so training in working systematically is important. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with meteorologists and technicians. Being flexible and adaptable to changing tasks is an advantage, especially since workdays can sometimes be unpredictable. An interest in solving problems quickly and handling technical challenges also helps. Taking initiative for further education, such as online courses in meteorology or data processing, increases development opportunities. Finally, patience and stress tolerance are required, especially during periods of high workload.

Key facts about Meteorological Assistant at SMHI

• Education level: High school diploma with technical/science focus
• Work environment: Mainly office-based, sometimes fieldwork and shift work
• Typical employment: Full-time, some part-time and hourly positions
• Professional group: Laboratory engineers
• Available jobs in the group: 564 positions (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a meteorological assistant, there may be opportunities to advance to more qualified roles, such as meteorologist, climate data analyst, or technical specialist within SMHI or other authorities. Many choose to further their education in meteorology, statistics, or IT to broaden their skill set. Within the group of laboratory engineers, which includes meteorological assistants, there are generally good development opportunities and a broad work field. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for meteorological assistants due to limited data, but there are 564 available positions in the group, indicating continued demand for technical expertise in the field. The future of the profession is influenced by societal development, digitalization, and increased focus on climate and environment.

Frequently asked questions about Meteorological Assistant at SMHI

• What is the salary of a meteorological assistant at SMHI?
  - A meteorological assistant at SMHI has an average monthly salary of 41 700 SEK (2024).
• How do gender differences in salary look for meteorological assistants?
  - Women earn an average of 40 900 SEK while men earn 42 600 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a meteorological assistant?
  - A high school diploma with a science or technical focus and post-secondary courses in meteorology or data processing are recommended.
• What is the working environment like for meteorological assistants?
  - Mainly office-based, but can include fieldwork and shift work.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, after a few years, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as meteorologist, climate data analyst, or technical specialist.
• What is the demand like on the job market?
  - Within the group of laboratory engineers, there are 564 available jobs, indicating continued demand.
• What are common benefits for meteorological assistants?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness grants, extra vacation days, and professional development.