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How an atmospheric / space scientist can use AI, task by task

O*NET 19-2021.00: Atmospheric and Space ScientistsMedian pay $99,070/year (BLS, May 2025)27 tasksJob Zone 4: Considerable preparation

Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Broadcast Meteorologist, Forecaster, General Forecaster, Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech), Meteorologist, Ocean Monitoring and Data Assimilation Scientist, Research Meteorologist, Service Hydrologist, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Weather Forecaster.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 21%AI-assist 64%Stays human 15%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 4 AI-ready, 19 AI-assist and 4 human-led tasks out of 27. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

AI can draft these 4

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

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.

Several times a day

AI finds trends and writes the spreadsheet formulas.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 54% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

Paste a spreadsheet or table and ask AI to find trends, outliers and totals, or to write the formula you need. It's like having an analyst on call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to 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.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and SAS; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Study or test: [what was measured and why]
Results: [paste de-identified data or summary]

Explain what the results show, how confident we can be, possible confounders, and what to report or follow up. Say where expert judgment is needed.

10-minute exercise: Interpret study or lab data

Step 1Take one set of results you need to interpret.
Step 2Fill in [Study or test] and [Results] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare its reading with your own and note where you disagree and why.

AI makes arithmetic mistakes. Recompute anything that matters with a spreadsheet formula.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Interpret research or operational data..

Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.

Daily

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 52% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.

Context: We use SAS and IBM SPSS Statistics; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Topic: [status, results, fixes]
Audience: [customers, staff]
Notes: [paste]

Draft slides outline and speaker notes. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Technical presentation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare forecasts or briefings (today).
Step 2Fill in [Topic], [Audience] and [Notes] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations..

Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.

Daily

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.

Context: We use Microsoft Word and QuarkXPress.
Here's what I have for the weather reports or maps: [rough notes, the facts, figures and decisions behind it]

Write a clear first draft that I can check and finish. Keep it [one page / short / formal], laid out so I can paste it into Microsoft Word or QuarkXPress. Use headings if they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Draft the weather reports or maps

Step 1Pull up the last weather reports or maps you did, or jot 5 rough bullets for the next one.
Step 2Paste the prompt and put those bullets in [rough notes]. Pick the length in [one page / short / formal] to match what goes into Microsoft Word or QuarkXPress.
Step 3Fix every [CHECK] against your source and anything else that's wrong, then compare the time with writing the weather reports or maps from scratch.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Provide technical information or assistance to public..

Prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.

Monthly

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.

Context: We use SAS and IBM SPSS Statistics; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Topic: [impact, project]
Findings: [paste]

Draft the report with summary and technical sections. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Environmental report

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles and texts.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Findings] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare research or technical reports on environmental issues..

AI can help you prep these 19

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.

Daily

AI does the arithmetic and suggests what to look at; the conclusions are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 35% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can do the arithmetic, build the spreadsheet formula and suggest what to look at. Deciding what the numbers mean for your situation is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.

Context: We use SAS and IBM SPSS Statistics; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Data: [paste meteorological, emissions, monitoring data]
Question: [what to predict or explain]

Analyze trends and give code or formulas. Show your working step by step and give spreadsheet formulas so I can reproduce the numbers.

10-minute exercise: Environmental data analysis

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you formulate predictions (today).
Step 2Fill in [Data] and [Question] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Recompute the most important number yourself before you trust the rest.

AI makes arithmetic mistakes. Recompute anything that matters with a spreadsheet formula.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Analyze environmental data.. Also involves: Develop theories or models of physical phenomena..

Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.

Daily

AI does the arithmetic and suggests what to look at; the conclusions are yours.

Show prompt & steps

AI can do the arithmetic, build the spreadsheet formula and suggest what to look at. Deciding what the numbers mean for your situation is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.

Context: We use SAS and IBM SPSS Statistics; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Phenomenon: [describe]
Data: [observations]

Suggest models and simulation code. Show your working step by step and give spreadsheet formulas so I can reproduce the numbers.

10-minute exercise: Physical model or simulation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop or use mathematical or computer models (today).
Step 2Fill in [Phenomenon] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Recompute the most important number yourself before you trust the rest.

AI makes arithmetic mistakes. Recompute anything that matters with a spreadsheet formula.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop theories or models of physical phenomena..

Conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.

Weekly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and SAS; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Research question: [phenomenon or relationship]
Data and tools: [datasets, models, instruments]

Outline a study design: variables, data sources, methods, likely confounders and how to handle them. List key papers to read first.

10-minute exercise: Plan a climate study

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct meteorological research (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Research question] and [Data and tools] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the papers it lists exist and say what it claims.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Conduct climatological research..

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.

Weekly

AI builds you an answer bank; exceptions and the human touch are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Build a personal answer bank with AI for the questions you get every day. In the moment, the human touch and the judgment about exceptions are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to 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.

Context: We use Social media sites; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Topic: [results, practice information]
Audience: [public, officials]

Write plain-language answers. Keep answers to 2-3 sentences and flag any that depend on the situation.

10-minute exercise: Technical information for the public

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you broadcast weather conditions, forecasts and severe weather warnings (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Audience] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the answers you'd actually use and tweak each one the first time you send it.

Don't paste customers' personal details into AI tools. Describe the situation instead.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Provide technical information or assistance to public..

Analyze historical climate information, such as precipitation or temperature records, to help predict future weather or climate trends.

Weekly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to analyze historical climate information, such as precipitation or temperature records, to help predict future weather or climate trends.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and SAS; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Research question: [phenomenon or relationship]
Data and tools: [datasets, models, instruments]

Outline a study design: variables, data sources, methods, likely confounders and how to handle them. List key papers to read first.

10-minute exercise: Plan a climate study

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you analyze historical climate information (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Research question] and [Data and tools] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the papers it lists exist and say what it claims.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Conduct climatological research..

Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.

Weekly

AI drafts scripts and configs; design and security are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 64% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft configurations, scripts and test cases and explain unfamiliar systems. Architecture and security decisions need your expertise.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.

Context: We use Formula translation/translator FORTRAN and Software development tools; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
System: [application, network, data processing]
Risks: [what could fail]

Write test cases covering function, performance and security, with expected results and scripts. Propose the approach first, then the code with comments and tests, and point out security risks.

10-minute exercise: System test plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop computer programs to collect meteorological data (this week).
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Risks] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run the tests yourself and read every line before you'd use it.

Don't paste secrets, passwords or proprietary code into tools your employer hasn't approved.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning.. Also involves: Analyze design requirements for computer or electronics systems.; Write computer programming code..

Analyze climate data sets, using techniques such as geophysical fluid dynamics, data assimilation, or numerical modeling.

Weekly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to analyze climate data sets, using techniques such as geophysical fluid dynamics, data assimilation, or numerical modeling.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and Air quality modeling software; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Research question: [phenomenon or relationship]
Data and tools: [datasets, models, instruments]

Outline a study design: variables, data sources, methods, likely confounders and how to handle them. List key papers to read first.

10-minute exercise: Plan a climate study

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you analyze climate data sets (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Research question] and [Data and tools] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the papers it lists exist and say what it claims.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Conduct climatological research..

Develop and deliver training on weather topics.

Monthly

AI helps you prepare clearer wording and likely questions.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to prepare: simpler wording, analogies, likely questions and a one-page handout. The conversation itself is yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to develop and deliver training on weather topics.

Context: The work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Training: [topic, class type]
Learners: [describe]

Draft a manual section, visual aid list and session plan. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Training materials

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop and deliver training.
Step 2Fill in [Training] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop training materials.. Also involves: Present information to the public.; Teach classes in area of specialization..

Perform managerial duties, such as creating work schedules, creating or implementing staff training, matching staff expertise to situations, or analyzing performance of offices.

Weekly

AI preps the paperwork; approving and paying stay with you.

Show prompt & steps

AI can prep the paperwork, extract details from documents and make checklists. Approving, paying and verifying stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to perform managerial duties, such as creating work schedules, creating or implementing staff training, matching staff expertise to situations, or analyzing performance of offices.

Context: We use Microsoft Access and Structured query language SQL.
Program: [orientation, training]
Logistics: [rooms, trainers, schedule]

Organize a schedule, sign-ups and evaluation forms. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Training coordination

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform managerial duties (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Program] and [Logistics] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Confirm trainers and rooms a week ahead.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Coordinate training activities.. Also involves: Manage human resources activities..

Consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.

Monthly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and SAS; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Project: [research, audit, multidisciplinary]
My role: [describe]

List what to prepare, questions for collaborators, and a shared plan outline. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Collaboration prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you consult with agencies, professionals and researchers regarding the use.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [My role] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Open two of the sources it gives and confirm the key claim before you use it.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate on research activities with scientists or technical specialists..

Speak to the public to discuss weather topics or answer questions.

Monthly

AI helps you prepare clearer wording and likely questions.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to prepare: simpler wording, analogies, likely questions and a one-page handout. The conversation itself is yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to speak to the public to discuss weather topics or answer questions.

Context: The work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Issue: [hazard, wildlife, conservation]
Audience: [public, property owners]

Draft clear public information and FAQs. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Public environmental information

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you speak to the public.
Step 2Fill in [Issue] and [Audience] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Communicate with the public on environmental issues.. Also involves: Provide educational information to the public..

Teach college-level courses on topics such as atmospheric and space science, meteorology, or global climate change.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to teach college-level courses on topics such as atmospheric and space science, meteorology, or global climate change.

Context: We use Microsoft PowerPoint; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Topic: [concept]
Students: [level]

Plan a lecture with demonstrations, problems and misconceptions to address. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Science class session

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you teach college-level courses.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Students] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.7/5 · O*NET work activity: Instruct college students in physical or life sciences..

Apply meteorological knowledge to issues such as global warming, pollution control, or ozone depletion.

Monthly

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to apply meteorological knowledge to issues such as global warming, pollution control, or ozone depletion.

Context: We use Microsoft Excel and Wolfram Research Mathematica; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Problem: [pollution, soil, climate]
Knowledge area: [agronomy, meteorology, ecology]

Propose evidence-based solutions with references to verify. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Apply research to an environmental problem

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you apply meteorological knowledge.
Step 2Fill in [Problem] and [Knowledge area] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Apply knowledge or research findings to address environmental problems..

Design or develop new equipment or methods for meteorological data collection, remote sensing, or related applications.

Monthly

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to design or develop new equipment or methods for meteorological data collection, remote sensing, or related applications.

Context: We use Microsoft Excel and Wolfram Research Mathematica; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Need: [data collection, code development]
Constraints: [equipment, standards]

Propose methods and validation. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: New environmental method

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you design or develop new equipment or methods.
Step 2Fill in [Need] and [Constraints] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Develop environmental research methods..

Conduct wind assessment, integration, or validation studies.

Monthly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to conduct wind assessment, integration, or validation studies.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and SAS; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Research question: [phenomenon or relationship]
Data and tools: [datasets, models, instruments]

Outline a study design: variables, data sources, methods, likely confounders and how to handle them. List key papers to read first.

10-minute exercise: Plan a climate study

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct wind assessment, integration and validation studies.
Step 2Fill in [Research question] and [Data and tools] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the papers it lists exist and say what it claims.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.5/5 · O*NET work activity: Conduct climatological research..

Research the impact of industrial projects or pollution on climate, air quality, or weather phenomena.

Monthly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to research the impact of industrial projects or pollution on climate, air quality, or weather phenomena.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and Air quality modeling software; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Activity and area: [land use, industry, development]
Species or resources of concern: [list]

Outline likely effects, study design, sampling methods, and literature to review. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Environmental effects study

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you research the impact of industrial projects or pollution.
Step 2Fill in [Activity and area] and [Species or resources of concern].
Step 3Check the sampling method against your field's standard protocol.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Research environmental impact of industrial or development activities..

Conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions to understand and predict global or regional weather patterns.

Monthly

AI does the arithmetic and suggests what to look at; the conclusions are yours.

Show prompt & steps

AI can do the arithmetic, build the spreadsheet formula and suggest what to look at. Deciding what the numbers mean for your situation is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions to understand and predict global or regional weather patterns.

Context: We use SAS and IBM SPSS Statistics; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
System: [climate, habitat]
Data: [GIS, observations]

Outline a model and code. Show your working step by step and give spreadsheet formulas so I can reproduce the numbers.

10-minute exercise: Environmental model

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Recompute the most important number yourself before you trust the rest.

AI makes arithmetic mistakes. Recompute anything that matters with a spreadsheet formula.

Importance 3.4/5 · O*NET work activity: Develop mathematical models of environmental conditions..

Create visualizations to illustrate historical or future changes in the Earth's climate, using paleoclimate or climate geographic information systems (GIS) databases.

Monthly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to create visualizations to illustrate historical or future changes in the Earth's climate, using paleoclimate or climate geographic information systems (GIS) databases.

Context: We use Advanced Visual Systems AVS/Express and Adobe Photoshop; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Data or object: [climate data, 3D model]
Audience: [describe]

Suggest chart or visual types and design tips. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Visualization

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you create visualizations.
Step 2Fill in [Data or object] and [Audience] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick the idea that sparks something and develop it yourself for 5 minutes.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.1/5 · O*NET work activity: Create images or other visual displays..

Estimate or predict the effects of global warming over time for specific geographic regions.

A few times a year

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to estimate or predict the effects of global warming over time for specific geographic regions.

Context: We use Wolfram Research Mathematica and SAS; the work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Activity and area: [land use, industry, development]
Species or resources of concern: [list]

Outline likely effects, study design, sampling methods, and literature to review. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Environmental effects study

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you estimate or predict the effects of global warming over time.
Step 2Fill in [Activity and area] and [Species or resources of concern].
Step 3Check the sampling method against your field's standard protocol.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.4/5 · O*NET work activity: Research environmental impact of industrial or development activities..

These stay human 4

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Face-to-face discussions: every day · Contact with others: contact with others most of the time · Impact of decisions: important results · Dealing with the public: very important

Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.

Context: The work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Samples: [water, air, biological]
Method: [describe]

List collection, preservation and chain of custody. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Environmental sampling

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you gather data (today).
Step 2Fill in [Samples] and [Method] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collect environmental data or samples..

Direct forecasting services at weather stations or at radio or television broadcasting facilities.

Daily

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to direct forecasting services at weather stations or at radio or television broadcasting facilities.

Context: The work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Operation: [forecasting, studies]
Team: [describe]

Help me prepare: the key message in 2 sentences, what good looks like, how people might react and how I'll respond, and one thing I'll check next week.

10-minute exercise: Directing technical operations

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you direct forecasting services (today).
Step 2Fill in [Operation] and [Team] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 4.1/5 · O*NET work activity: Direct technical activities or operations..

Measure wind, temperature, and humidity in the upper atmosphere, using weather balloons.

Weekly

Needs your eyes on site. AI can build the checklist and the report.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can build your inspection checklists, explain standards and turn your notes and photos into clean reports.

Prep prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to measure wind, temperature, and humidity in the upper atmosphere, using weather balloons.

Context: The work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
What I measure: [vegetation, populations, soil, water]
Method: [plots, transects, counts]

Write a protocol with sampling, data sheet and quality checks. Group it by area, say what 'good' and 'bad' look like for each item, and add a short template for writing up what I find.

10-minute exercise: Field measurement protocol

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you measure wind, temperature and humidity (this week).
Step 2Fill in [What I measure] and [Method] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use the data sheet on your next trip.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Measure environmental characteristics..

Collect air samples from planes or ships over land or sea to study atmospheric composition.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an atmospheric / space scientist. Part of my job is to collect air samples from planes or ships over land or sea to study atmospheric composition.

Context: The work draws on geography, physics and mathematics.
Samples: [water, air, biological]
Method: [describe]

List collection, preservation and chain of custody. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Environmental sampling

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you collect air samples.
Step 2Fill in [Samples] and [Method] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.8/5 · O*NET work activity: Collect environmental data or samples..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Monitoringimportance 3.1/5
    Used in: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates
  • Time Managementimportance 3.0/5
    Used in: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates
  • Negotiationimportance 2.5/5
    Used in: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Critical Thinkingimportance 4.0/5
    Used in: Getting Information
  • Active Listeningimportance 4.0/5
    Used in: Getting Information
  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 4.1/5
    Used in: Getting Information
  • Writingimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Documenting/Recording Information

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

Getting into this job

Bachelor's degree is most common (60% of workers)

  • Bachelor's 60%
  • Graduate degree 40%
  • On-the-job training: 6–12 months
  • Related experience: 1–2 years

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

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