Explore how your federal experience as a Meteorology (GS-1340) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1340 Levels 1-4 | Meteorological Technician, Junior Meteorologist, Weather Analyst, Entry-Level Meteorologist | Assists with collecting and analyzing meteorological data, prepares weather forecasts, and supports senior meteorologists in research and reporting tasks. | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| GS-1340 Levels 5-7 | Meteorologist, Weather Scientist, Environmental Data Analyst, Research Meteorologist | Conducts data analysis and forecasting, develops atmospheric models, and prepares written reports on weather conditions and trends for various stakeholders. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
| GS-1340 Levels 8-9 | Senior Meteorologist, Meteorological Consultant, Lead Weather Analyst, Weather Forecast Manager | Oversees meteorological projects, mentors junior staff, analyzes complex weather patterns, communicates findings to clients, and develops policies for weather-related services. | $80,000 - $100,000 |
| GS-1340 Levels 10-11 | Principal Meteorologist, Meteorological Operations Manager, Senior Weather Scientist, Chief Forecast Officer | Leads meteorological teams, strategizes forecasting operations, collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, and ensures accuracy of meteorological data and services delivery. | $100,000 - $130,000 |
| GS-1340 Levels 12-13 | Meteorology Program Director, Senior Climate Scientist, Weather Policy Advisor, Meteorological Research Director | Manages large meteorological programs, advises on climate policy, initiates research and development projects, and represents the organization in high-level meetings and conferences. | $130,000 - $160,000 |
| GS-1340 Levels 14-15 | Director of Meteorological Sciences, Chief Meteorologist, Executive Weather Consultant, Senior Director of Atmospheric Research | Oversees all meteorological operations, sets organizational vision for meteorology services, liaises with top executives and government agencies, and leads significant research initiatives. | $160,000 - $200,000 |
| GS-1340 SES | Executive Vice President of Weather Services, Chief Science Officer for Meteorology, Senior Executive Meteorologist, National Weather Services Executive | Establishes strategic direction for organizational meteorological efforts nationally, oversees budgets, drives innovative advancements in meteorological sciences, and represents organization at international forums. | $200,000 - $250,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM)
The CBM certification is a prestigious credential that demonstrates a meteorologist's comprehensive understanding of weather forecasting and presentation skills. This certification is especially valuable for those transitioning to roles in media or public communications, enhancing job prospects in television, radio, and online platforms where weather reporting is essential.
American Meteorological Society (AMS) Seal of Approval
The AMS Seal of Approval is awarded to broadcast meteorologists who meet specific standards of knowledge and experience in meteorology. Holding this seal not only adds credibility in the civilian sector, especially in media and education, but also signals to employers a commitment to professional excellence in the field of meteorology.
Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM)
The CCM certification is geared towards meteorologists who provide consulting services, ensuring they have the necessary expertise to advise on weather-related issues in various industries. This credential can significantly improve an individual's marketability for roles in private sector consulting, risk management, and legal testimony, where meteorological expertise is crucial.
Weather Risk Management Certification
This certification focuses on understanding and managing weather-related risks in business and industry, which is increasingly relevant as companies seek to mitigate the impacts of climate change and extreme weather. Obtaining this certification can open doors to positions in agriculture, energy, and finance, where knowledge of meteorological data can inform strategic decisions.
National Weather Service (NWS) Hazardous Weather Certification
This certification emphasizes the skills needed to assess and communicate hazardous weather conditions effectively, which is vital in both public safety and emergency management roles. In the civilian sector, having this certification can set candidates apart in fields related to disaster response, urban planning, and insurance, where the ability to handle weather-related challenges is essential.
Remote Sensing and Geospatial Technologies Certification
This certification proves expertise in using remote sensing and GIS technologies to analyze meteorological data, which is increasingly in demand for environmental monitoring and research roles. Civilian employers in academia, research institutions, and environmental consulting firms will value this skill set to enhance decision-making based on spatial weather data.
Certified Environmental Meteorologist (CEM)
The CEM certification highlights an individual's proficiency in understanding the interactions between meteorology and environmental impacts. This is particularly advantageous for roles in environmental agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations focused on climate impact, allowing for a deeper understanding of both meteorological phenomena and environmental policies.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
While not specific to meteorology, a PMP certification can greatly enhance career prospects by demonstrating the ability to manage projects effectively. This skill is advantageous for roles in research and development, government agencies, and private sector firms, where project management is crucial to successful meteorological studies and policy implementation.
data Science and Analytics Certification
Given that the field of meteorology increasingly relies on data analysis and predictive modeling, this certification equips meteorologists with essential skills to handle big data and statistical methods. Such expertise is sought after in various industries, including technology, finance, and environmental disaster assessment, where data-driven decisions are essential.
Air Quality and Climate Change Certification
This credential provides specialized knowledge in atmospheric science, air quality modeling, and climate change mitigation strategies. With growing concerns over climate-related issues, this certification can make candidates more attractive to employers in environmental consulting, governmental agencies, and research organizations focused on sustainable practices.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-1340 Meteorology role to a private sector job can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey. However, it requires a strategic approach and a mindset shift to ensure that your skills, experiences, and knowledge are framed correctly to align with what employers in the private sector are looking for. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this transition successfully.
Embrace Change: Moving from the structured environment of federal employment to the more fluid dynamics of the private sector means being willing to adapt. Understand that each work culture has its unique norms and operate with a flexible mindset.
Value Your Skills: Your background in meteorology has equipped you with a wealth of technical expertise and soft skills. Recognize the value these skills bring to potential employers, such as analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills.
Focus on Results, Not Processes: While federal jobs often stress the fulfillment of specific processes and protocols, private sector employers are more likely to be interested in the results you've achieved. Adjust your narrative accordingly to emphasize outcomes, efficiency improvements, or successful project completions.
Translate Your Title and Responsibilities: In your resume, clarify your GS-1340 title using civilian-friendly language. Instead of just listing your federal job title, provide a brief description that conveys your main responsibilities and contributions in terms commonly used in the private sector.
Highlight Achievements: Use quantifiable data to describe your achievements. For example, "developed a predictive model that improved weather forecasting accuracy by 20%" is more impactful than simply stating "worked on weather forecasting models." Aim to include specific metrics or outcomes whenever possible.
Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with dynamic action verbs to illustrate your contributions. For instance, words like "analyzed," "developed," "implemented," or "managed" convey a sense of initiative and leadership.
Tailor for Each Job Application: Customize your resume for each position. Review the job description carefully and pick out keywords that align with your skills and experience. Incorporate those keywords into your resume where applicable.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Many private sector interviews focus on behavioral questions. Prepare examples from your federal experience that demonstrate key competencies, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to keep your responses structured and concise.
Be Ready to Explain Your Experience: Understand that interviewers may not be familiar with the federal system. Be prepared to explain the significance of your past responsibilities and the impact of your work in a way that a civilian could easily understand.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Research the company and understand its culture and goals. Show passion for the opportunity and how your background in meteorology can uniquely contribute to the company’s objectives.
Ask Insightful Questions: Use the interview as a two-way dialogue. Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and company, such as challenges the department is facing or potential areas for innovation in meteorology.
Leverage Professional Networks: Join professional organizations and attend conferences related to meteorology and your target industry. Networking with professionals in the sector can often lead to job opportunities and referrals.
Utilize LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career goals. Connect with former colleagues, industry professionals, and recruiters. Engage with content within your target industry to showcase your interest and knowledge.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals who have made similar transitions or are currently in roles you aspire to. Request informational interviews to learn more about their experiences and gather insights about industry expectations and practices. This can also expand your network significantly.
Identify Transferable Skills: Analyze your daily activities and responsibilities in your federal role. Consider skills such as project management, data analysis, technical writing, and teamwork that can be pertinent to various industries.
Use Industry Terminology: Research industry-specific terms and jargon to better align your language with the private sector's expectations. For example, instead of "forecast models," consider using "data-driven decision-making tools" that highlight the private sector’s focus on data analytics.
Create a Professional Narrative: Develop a narrative that tells your career story. This narrative will help in crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and networking. Make sure to reflect your passion for meteorology and how it translates into business value.
Remember, transitioning to the private sector is a journey, not a sprint. It may take time to adjust and find the right fit, but your federal experience provides a solid foundation for many roles. Stay open-minded, proactive, and receptive to feedback throughout your search. Every new connection and experience brings you one step closer to your goal. Embrace the possibilities ahead and know that your skills have significant value in the private sphere. Good luck!