Outside contacts are with state and local officials with decision or planning responsibilities or authority for dealing with community response to weather threats and natural disasters. This may include elected officials such as mayors, governors, agency heads, etc. Additional contacts are with other Federal agencies, community action, other special purpose groups and cooperative storm spotters, citizens groups, civic organizations, the mass news media, other specialized users, and the general public. Though much of the employee's general public contact is through the mass media, the public and specialized users may contact the WFO directly for general and specialized advice on existing and forecast weather conditions. The work is generally sedentary, although carrying of bulky projectors and other informational materials is occasionally required, along with some light travel.
Routine duties require meeting tight deadlines.
Additionally, rotating shift work is occasionally required with the WFO in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During periods of threatening weather or rapidly changing weather conditions, the increase in workload and the necessity for rapid dissemination of weather warnings and updates requires periods of acute mental alertness and produces considerable mental stress. Adverse weather conditions often require the incumbent to work hours longer than the usual shift, adding to mental and physical stress. The work environment most closely resembles that of an office with added specialized equipment. This position is exempt.