and discuss with meteorologists at central services about weather warnings. Many weather observers specialize in particular areas, such as supporting the military or local news stations, and specialization can affect future career options. Qualifications A weather observer needs a technical training and certification from an organization like the National Weather Service. Some use internships or similar experiences to practice observing weather before applying for a full-time job. Fulfilling the duties of a weather observer requires excellent eyesight, attention to detail, and presentation skills. For certain positions, the ability to direct assistants or support staff is also helpful. Salary In 2021, the average salary for a weather observer in the United States is $52,452 per year, or $25 per hour. The top 10 percent make over $108,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent earn under $32,000 per year. In Canada, the average salary is CAD$54,174 per year or CAD$26 per hour. Entry level positions start at CAD$39,791 per year, while most experienced workers make up to CAD$66,135 per year. In other countries, the average observer surface weather gross salary in Yanbu'al Bahr, Saudi Arabia is 200,612 SAR, while in South Africa, the entry level of a weather observer is R245,126, and a senior level weather observer (8+ years of experience) earns an average R407,412. See also Association of American Weather Observers Citizen Weather Observer Program Cooperative Observer Program References Branches of meteorology Climate and weather statistics Technicians Meteorological data and networks