Atmospheric and Space Scientists
O*NET 19-2021.00 · SOC 19-2021
Atmospheric and Space Scientist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $99k a year with +2.6% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 800 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Analyze weather data to produce daily and hourly forecasts
- →Issue severe weather warnings and alerts to emergency managers
- →Operate and calibrate Doppler radar and weather balloon equipment
- →Study atmospheric data to identify long-term climate patterns
- →Brief pilots and aviation crews on current weather conditions
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Atmospheric and Space Scientist roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as an Atmospheric and Space Scientist? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Atmospheric and Space Scientist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Atmospheric and Space Scientist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Atmospheric and Space Scientist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Atmospheric and Space Scientists is projected to grow 2.6% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·30% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Atmospheric and Space Scientist make?
The median Atmospheric and Space Scientist earns $99k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Atmospheric and Space Scientist jobs?
Our model puts Atmospheric and Space Scientist at 35 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 30% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Atmospheric and Space Scientist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2.6% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Atmospheric and Space Scientist?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Atmospheric and Space Scientist roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become an Atmospheric and Space Scientist?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Atmospheric and Space Scientist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes