Meteorological Technician

As a member of the military, Meteorological Technicians observe, brief on and forecast weather conditions in support of operations at Royal Canadian Air Force Wings and Squadrons, on Royal Canadian Navy Ships at sea and in Army facilities.

This occupation is currently offering a Signing Bonus to applicants joining the Regular Force (Full-Time) who meet certain criteria. Conditions apply.

Accelerated Pay Increment

Upon the enrolment and successful completion of Regular Force Basic Training (Basic Military qualification (BMQ)), you will be eligible for an accelerated pay increment if you enrol in one of the designated occupations.

Responsibilities

Their primary responsibilities are to:

• Observe and record surface, marine and upper air weather conditions
• Process, analyze and interpret meteorological information
• Operate and maintain specialized meteorological instruments and equipment
• Brief wing, ship and land unit personnel on actual and expected weather conditions
• Forecast weather conditions

Work Environment

Generally, meteorological observing offices are located near airfields. While much of a Meteorological Technician’s time is spent indoors in a weather office, duties require regular trips outdoors to observe and report on all types of weather phenomena. Meteorological Technicians work rotating shifts. In a Naval environment, they will work and live onboard a ship. If posted to an artillery unit, they will participate in field exercises under operational and combat conditions.

If you chose a career in the Regular Force, upon completion of all required training, you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility with regards to postings (relocations), accommodations can’t always be made, and therefore, you can likely expect to move at some point in your career. However, if you decide to join the Primary Reserve Force, you will do so through a specific Reserve unit. Outside of training, your chosen Reserve unit will be your workplace on a part-time basis, and you will not be obligated to relocate to a different base. As part of the Primary Reserve Force, you typically work one night per week and some weekends as a minimum with possibilities of full-time employment.

Training

The first stage of training is the Basic Military Qualification course, or Basic Training, held at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. A goal of this course is to ensure that all recruits maintain the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) physical fitness standard; as a result, the training is physically demanding.

Basic Military Qualification – Land Course

After Basic Training, Army recruits go to a Military Training centre for the Basic Military Qualification – Land Course for approximately one month, which covers the following topics:

• Army Physical Fitness
• Dismounted Offensive and Defensive Operations

As they progress in their career, Meteorological Technicians who demonstrate the required ability and potential will be offered advanced training. Available courses include:

• Installation and maintenance of meteorological sensors and equipment

The minimum required education to apply for this occupation is the completion of the provincial requirements for Grade 11, Secondary 5 in Quebec or equivalent, including:

• Grade 11 applied math or math 526 / SN 5/TS 5; and
• Any chemistry or physics course at the Grade 11 or Secondary 5 level.