Chief Meteorologist & First Alert Weather Leader

Gray Media, Inc.; Jackson, Northern (MS, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

WLBT-TV/Gray Media is seeking an experienced Chief Meteorologist to lead the First Alert Weather team in Mississippi's top weather market. You will guide forecasts, coordinate across broadcast, digital, and social platforms, and communicate risk clearly to viewers.

The role requires a strong track record in severe-weather coverage, leadership, and a commitment to community safety, with flexibility for early mornings and extended hours during events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or closely related field required.
• Significant on-air meteorology experience with leadership in a severe-weather market; prior chief meteorologist or weather-team leadership preferred.
• Proven ability to lead extended, live severe-weather coverage with sound editorial judgment, composure, urgency, and accuracy.
• Strong understanding of severe-weather forecasting, radar interpretation, warning operations, and risk communication.
• Excellent on-camera presence and ability to translate weather information into clear, actionable forecasts.
• Demonstrated community service mindset and ability to build relationships in the market.

Responsibilities

• Lead the First Alert Weather team and set a high standard for accurate and viewer-focused coverage.
• Deliver compelling on-air forecasts and extended live coverage during severe weather events.
• Serve as a trusted on-air voice before, during, and after major weather events.
• Direct weather strategy across all platforms: newscasts, streaming, website, mobile, social, and breaking news.
• Collaborate with newsroom leadership, producers, anchors, reporters, and digital teams.
• Mentor and develop weather team members and foster a high-performance culture.
• Represent the station and brand in community events and safety outreach.
• Maintain knowledge of forecasting tools, radar, data, and audience-engagement platforms.

Skills

Leadership

On-air meteorology

Severe-weather forecasting

Communication

Editorial judgment

Education

Bachelor's degree in meteorology

Job description

WLBT-TV/Gray Media is seeking an experienced Chief Meteorologist to lead the First Alert Weather team in Mississippi's top weather market. You will guide forecasts, coordinate across broadcast, digital, and social platforms, and communicate risk clearly to viewers.

The role requires a strong track record in severe-weather coverage, leadership, and a commitment to community safety, with flexibility for early mornings and extended hours during events.