Atmospheric and space scientists
SOC Code: 19-2021
Atmospheric and space scientists carries a 46% AI exposure score (High automation risk), with a median annual wage of $97,450 and +0.7% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 9,400 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Atmospheric and space scientists (SOC 19-2021) carries an AI exposure score of 46%, placing it in the High automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score in the 40–70% range indicates meaningful automation pressure on specific task categories, but the role as a whole still requires human judgment for coordination, exception handling, or client interaction.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 9,400 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +0.7% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $97,450, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Bachelor's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Atmospheric and space scientists. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
- 2. Interpret data, reports, maps, photographs, or charts to predict long- or short-range weather conditions, using computer models and knowledge of climate theory, physics, and mathematics.
- 3. Conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.
- 4. Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.
- 5. Broadcast weather conditions, forecasts, or severe weather warnings to the public via television, radio, or the Internet or provide this information to the news media.
- 6. Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.
- 7. Direct forecasting services at weather stations or at radio or television broadcasting facilities.
- 8. Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
- 9. Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.
- 10. Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
Key Skills Required
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Science
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Writing
- Complex Problem Solving
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Mathematics
Knowledge Areas
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Geography
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Communications and Media
- Customer and Personal Service
- Chemistry
- Education and Training
- Engineering and Technology
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Atmospheric and space scientists?
Atmospheric and space scientists has an AI exposure score of 46%, indicating a high level of automation risk. Some tasks in this role can be augmented or partially automated by AI, but core responsibilities require human judgment.
What is the job outlook for Atmospheric and space scientists?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Atmospheric and space scientists is projected to grow by 0.7% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 9,400 workers.
What skills are needed for Atmospheric and space scientists?
Key skills for Atmospheric and space scientists include Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Speaking, and others. Typical entry-level education is Bachelor's degree.
How much do Atmospheric and space scientists earn?
The median annual wage for Atmospheric and space scientists is $97,450, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Atmospheric and space scientists?
The typical entry-level education for Atmospheric and space scientists is Bachelor's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Atmospheric and space scientists?
Atmospheric and space scientists roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
High automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. A moderate share of tasks may be augmented by AI tools.
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).