Careers
National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

The National Weather Service (NWS) is a component of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  NOAA is an Operating Unit of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Our Mission

Provide weather, water and climate data, forecasts, warnings, and impact-based decision support services for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy.

Our Vision

A Weather-Ready Nation: Society is Prepared for and Responds to Weather-Dependent Events.

Careers

The NWS employs over 4,000 people serving in a variety of careers, including scientific, technical, and administrative positions in offices across the country.  Learn more about opportunities with the NWS through the following links.

 

Commitment to Diversity

The NWS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to recruiting, retaining, and developing a diverse workforce.  We believe that our diverse perspectives and experiences make us stronger and better able to address our greatest challenges. Diversity is the mixture of differences and similarities each employee brings to the workplace to accomplish the goals of the NWS.

The NWS proudly welcomes applications from veterans.  Information for veterans can be found here.

Student Employment Opportunities

The Pathways Program is designed to provide students enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions, from high school to graduate level, with opportunities to work in agencies and explore federal careers while still in school and while getting paid for the work performed.

For more information about the Pathways program, visit the NWS Student Employment Programs page, read the USAJOBS Pathways’ FAQs, or search for all available job opportunities on USAJOBS.

Student opportunities are also available throughout NOAA. Information on scholarships, internships, fellowships and post docs can be found at NOAA Student Opportunities.

Current Vacancies in the National Weather Service and NOAA

Most atmospheric scientists in the NWS work in Weather Forecast Offices (WFOs), Center Weather Service Units (CWSUs), National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEPs), headquarters offices, or laboratories. These facilities are located throughout the United States and its territories.

NOAA employs an array of scientists, specialists, and other personnel who provide operational support across the United States and its territories. Operational support includes daily weather forecasts, severe storm warning notifications, climate monitoring, fisheries management, coastal restoration, and marine commerce.

Application Process

Job vacancies with the NWS are posted on the USAJOBS website and all applicants must have an account with USAJOBS in order to submit application materials.  By using USAJOBS, you may fine-tune your job search by occupation, pay, or location, and you may also set your account to automatically notify you when positions of interest to you are open.  Additional information is available through the USAJOBS Resource Center.

Check out some NWS Hiring Tips and Tricks here.

View all Faces of the NWS profiles here.