Weather Forecaster I

Ridgecrest, California, US on site Until 10/3/2026 2+ years exp First posted August 4, 2026 Last posted August 4, 2026
Job description

Saalex is seeking a Weather Forecaster I in Ridgecrest, CA to support meteorological observation, forecasting, reporting, and dissemination activities in support of government test and training operations. This is an entry-level forecasting role responsible for preparing routine weather observations, forecasts, and adapted forecast products using meteorological data from surface and upper-air stations, satellites, radar, and centralized forecast sources.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary Range: $37.32 hourly (depending on experience)

Work Location: Onsite.

Essential Functions:

  • Assist with meteorological production processes used to develop and disseminate accurate weather products and services.
  • Observe weather phenomena and analyze climatic regimes, geography, terrain, weather system characteristics, centralized weather products, and surface and upper-air reports to forecast weather conditions.
  • Encode and record weather observations using computer-based weather station systems.
  • Identify, evaluate, and monitor significant weather developments.
  • Discuss the location, intensity, movement, and development potential of weather features.
  • Initiate computer-generated graphic sequences to load, evaluate, and display meteorological charts, alphanumeric data, and statistical model output.
  • Disseminate weather observations in accordance with established system procedures.
  • Assist in recommending forecasting techniques, methods, and procedures to improve unit forecasting capabilities.
  • Attend technical briefings, seminars, conferences, and other meetings as required.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements

Required:

  • Knowledge of meteorological methods, techniques, and practices, including weather observing, forecasting, communications, meteorological equipment, and support procedures.
  • Familiarity with computer software and applications used in weather forecasting operations.
  • Ability to recognize and measure meteorological phenomena using scientific equipment and instrumentation.
  • Ability to support decision-making during severe weather or emergency situations.
  • Ability to distinguish and interpret detailed weather data displays.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Desired:

  • Experience supporting military, government, aviation, test range, or operational weather environments.
  • Experience using weather station systems, meteorological display tools, or forecast production software.
  • Experience preparing localized weather observations, forecasts, or routine weather products for mission-specific applications.

Education/Years of Experience:

Associate degree in Applied Science, Weather Technology, or equivalent formal academic training and experience and Two (2) years of weather forecasting experience.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

  • Ability to safely ascend and descend a 26-step stairway as part of routine job duties.
  • Primarily office-based environment.
  • Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.
  • Frequent computer use and extended periods of sitting.
  • Comply with all company operational, safety, quality, and environmental policies and procedures.

Security Clearance:

Must be eligible to obtain a Secret clearance. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.  

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources
  • Stock Option Plan
About this role

Summary

Forecasts weather using meteorological data; prepares weather reports; supports decision-making in operational environments.

Job title

Weather Forecaster I

Experience level

entry level

Minimum experience

2+ years exp

Industry

government

Location requirements

Onsite in Ridgecrest, CA; no remote work allowed.

Salary

$37.32 hourly (depending on experience)

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

meteorological methodsweather observingforecasting techniquessupport procedurescomputer software

Preferred skills

military supportweather station systemslocal weather forecasts

Specializations

weather forecastingmeteorological dataweather observationweather prediction
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Ridgecrest, CA 93555, USA

On-site City