The title Certified Consulting Meteorologist is granted by the American Meteorological Society. This certification is generally considered to be recognition that the meteorologist is particularly qualified to carry on the work of a consulting meteorologist. In evaluating the inexperienced graduate, employers place emphasis on fundamental knowledge and abilities. A thorough understanding of mathematics, physics, meteorology, and computer science is essential along with skill in the analysis and communication of technical information. Meteorologists with many years of experience may become private consultants.
Some meteorologists establish their own consulting firms.
Private firms announce positions for experienced meteorologists in the American Meteorological Society's monthly job bulletin or in other professional publications. When seeking recent graduates, they frequently contact university meteorology departments. These firms also rely on networking through the academic and professional community. Jobseekers should apply directly to employers and follow up in person, telephone, or letter. The most important characteristic of the successful job seeker may well be persistence.