Inside the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): Your 60-Second Guide to Landing Your Dream Role ⛅
Ever wondered what it’s really like to work at Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)? We’ve dissected their latest annual report so you don’t have to! In this quickfire overview, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the BOM—from its key functions and financials to the skills and qualifications they look for in new recruits. Whether you’re an aspiring public servant or a seasoned professional, this guide will equip you to navigate a truly rewarding government career.
AT-A-GLANCE:
Name of Department: Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
Location: Australia-wide (with offices in every state and territory, plus offshore islands and Antarctica)
CEO: Dr Andrew Johnson, CEO and Director of Meteorology
Total Revenue: AUD 480.9 million (2023–24)
Total Number of Employees: 2,334 (as of 30 June 2024)
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 academic qualifications most suited:
Meteorology or Atmospheric Science – Crucial for weather analysis, forecasting, and climate research.
Environmental Science – Supports comprehensive environmental monitoring and risk assessment.
Computer Science / Data Science – Essential for high-level data modelling, coding, and analytics.
Engineering (Electrical / Mechanical / Civil) – Maintains and advances observation systems and technology.
Mathematics or Statistics – Enhances the precision of forecast models and data interpretation.
Top 5 certifications most suited:
Project Management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP) – Coordinates large-scale, multi-stakeholder projects effectively.
Technical Writing / Communications – Improves clarity and reach of bulletins and public messages.
IT Security / Cybersecurity – Protects vital meteorological data from digital threats.
ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems) – Maintains high-quality service standards and verification processes.
GIS / Remote Sensing – Manages geospatial data and satellite imagery for advanced analytics.
Top 5 trades / professions most suited:
Electronics Technician – Maintains radars, remote sensing equipment, and weather stations.
Hydrologist – Informs critical flood forecasting and water resource decisions.
Marine Technician – Manages tide gauges, wave buoys, and offshore monitoring systems.
Communication and Media Officers – Delivers credible, accessible updates during high-impact weather events.
IT Systems Administrator – Supports the Bureau’s robust IT network and high-performance computing.
Top 5 skills most suited:
Analytical Thinking – Vital for interpreting big data and ensuring accurate forecasts.
Collaboration – Critical during severe weather or emergency responses where multiple teams come together.
Technical Troubleshooting – Indispensable for real-time repairs and software/hardware maintenance.
Adaptability – Helps staff respond to rapidly changing conditions and deliver urgent warnings.
Stakeholder Engagement – Facilitates effective collaboration with various government agencies and community groups.
Top 5 work experiences most suited:
Field Operations – Real-world exposure to maintaining and operating meteorological equipment in diverse environments.
Data Analysis / Modelling – Understanding large datasets is crucial to refining predictive models.
Emergency Management Support – Shows readiness to act under pressure and coordinate with multiple agencies.
Public Communication – Experience delivering crucial information promptly to a wide audience.
Policy or Regulatory Work – Useful in aligning departmental objectives with legislation, particularly on water resources.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
Name of CEO: Dr Andrew Johnson (CEO and Director of Meteorology)
Location: Australia-wide, including remote islands and Antarctica
Year Founded: 1908
Main mission and purpose of the department:
To provide trusted, reliable and responsive weather, water, climate, ocean and space weather services for Australia—all day, every day.
Example of impact: Their heatwave and severe storm warnings help keep communities safe and support vital national industries, including agriculture and aviation.
Main duties of the department:
Monitoring and reporting on atmospheric, marine, water, and climate conditions.
Delivering forecasts, warnings, and long-term outlooks.
Collaborating with emergency services, aviation, maritime, agriculture, and more.
Example of impact: Timely flood warnings enable safe evacuations and mitigate property damage.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
Flood Warning Infrastructure Network (FWIN) – Modernising flood-monitoring equipment to improve regional forecasts.
Space Weather Services – Protecting satellite communications and energy grids from solar storms.
High-Performance Computing Upgrades – Offering greater accuracy in day-to-day forecasts and long-range climate analysis.
Research and Innovation – Refining forecasting techniques and water-management practices.
Did you know?
The BOM gathers data from over 2,300 staff spread across the mainland, offshore islands, and Antarctica, ensuring comprehensive coverage for the entire Australian region.
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: 2,334 (as of 30 June 2024)
Total Number of Employees at Each Pay Level:
1,711 ongoing staff, 171 non-ongoing staff, and 452 contractors.
Salary Bands:
Ranges from entry-level administrative and technical roles up to Senior Executive Service tiers.
Specific APS band rates are not publicly listed in the annual report.
Average Salary in the Department:
Not disclosed in the annual report. Generally aligns with APS classifications.
Total Revenue:
AUD 480.9 million (2023–24)
Average Revenue per Employee:
Approximately AUD 206,000 (total revenue ÷ total employees = 480.9m ÷ 2,334)
GETTING A JOB AT
Which academic subjects are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Electronics & Communications – Crucial for on-site maintenance of weather instruments.
Information Technology – Supports the complex hardware and software that underpin data collection.
Project Administration – Helps organise and streamline multi-faceted projects.
Bachelor / Master Level:
Meteorology – Core qualification for forecasting and climate research roles.
Data Science / Computer Science – Key for refining computational models and analysing voluminous datasets.
Geoscience / Environmental Science – Broadens capabilities for environmental risk assessment and water management.
PhDs:
Atmospheric Physics / Climate Science – Innovates and improves forecast accuracy.
Oceanography – Deepens understanding of marine systems for better cyclone and tsunami predictions.
Which trades and professions are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Electronics Technicians – Service and repair critical observation networks like radar and satellites.
Instrument Fitters / Mechanics – Keep essential data-gathering gear, like rain gauges and balloon launchers, in working order.
Engineering Surveyors – Help establish observation sites with accurate geographic positioning.
Aviation Meteorologists – Provide forecasts crucial for flight safety and efficiency.
Marine Weather Experts – Deliver forecasts for sea-level changes, wave heights, and coastal events.
Which work experiences are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Operational Fieldwork – Insight into remote-site logistics and technology upkeep.
Emergency Management – Familiarity with high-stakes coordination during severe weather events.
Program Management – Demonstrates ability to lead large-scale, multi-partner initiatives.
Software Development – Enables improvements in modelling algorithms and automated processes.
Communication & Media – Presents key forecasts and alerts swiftly to a nationwide audience.
Which skills are likely to be most sought after, and of value, to this department?
Soft skills:
Critical Thinking – Rapidly interpret complex meteorological data.
Collaboration – Align with teams, especially during emergencies and joint government efforts.
Customer Service Orientation – Supports smooth interactions with various user groups.
Technical skills:
Weather Modelling & Forecasting – Powers daily and long-range predictions.
Radar & Satellite Technology – Manages cutting-edge observation instruments.
Data Analytics & Visualisation – Translates large datasets into actionable insights.
General skills:
Time Management – Provides timely alerts before hazardous weather strikes.
Problem-Solving – Tackles on-the-ground equipment or data glitches under tight deadlines.
Continuous Learning – Stays ahead of scientific and technological advances.
Which hobbies and interests align with the work of this department?
Photography / Videography (particularly of weather phenomena) – Encourages detailed observation of atmospheric conditions.
Local Bushwalking / Hiking – Fosters real-world appreciation of changing weather patterns and terrains.
Community Volunteer Work – Builds strong communication and teamwork, essential during emergencies.
Amateur Radio – Assists with remote communication and station set-up.
Technology Enthusiasts – Remain curious about AI, coding, and emerging tech tools.
Want more information on this department?
Contact the department:
Address: GPO Box 413, Brisbane QLD 4001, Australia
Telephone: +61 7 3239 8700
Website: www.bom.gov.au
(For HR or Recruitment-specific inquiries, contact can be made via the general channels above.)
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