Weather Observer

Weather observers record weather conditions every day at scheduled times, compile the information into meteorological messages according to international codes and transmit it to different centres.

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They measure temperature changes, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed and wind direction twice a day. Precision instruments are used to make the observations and the weather observers must keep these instruments in excellent working condition.

The nature of the services rendered by the Weather Bureau makes it necessary to conduct observations 24 hours a day. Weather observers, therefore, have to work shifts.

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Personal Requirements

• reliable
• able to work carefully and accurately
• scientific knowledge
• willing to do routine work

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How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Science
Recommended subjects: Geography
Additional: 

• Pass matric with a Bachelor's pass
• Meet the admission requirements (APS) set by the university.

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What to Study

The Weather Bureau offers practical in-service training, which includes:

• learning about surface observations, upper-air observations
• maintenance of meteorological instruments
• automatic weather stations
• climatic data
• inspections of climatic stations

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Employment

The Weather Bureau of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.

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Further Information

Weather Bureau
Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
Tel: (012) 310-3661
www.environment.gov.za

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Getting Started

• try to obtain vacation or part-time work at a weather bureau or airport
• familiarise yourself with various types of clouds and meteorological terms by reading books and observing this type of work
• arrange to speak to weather observers about this type of career and ask permission to observe them at work

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