Many aspiring journalists and scientists look to prominent figures like ABC 7 Chicago's Chief Meteorologist, Cheryl Scott, and wonder about the earning potential of such a high-profile career. While the specific salary of any individual is private, we can perform a deep dive into the profession she represents: the broadcast meteorologist.
This career path combines rigorous scientific knowledge with polished communication skills, and its compensation can range significantly. A broadcast meteorologist's salary can start around $45,000 in a small market and soar to well over $500,000 for top-tier talent in major cities. This guide will break down the data, the factors that influence earnings, and the overall outlook for this dynamic profession.
What Does a Broadcast Meteorologist Do?
The role of a broadcast meteorologist extends far beyond pointing at a weather map on the evening news. It is a highly skilled position that blends science, technology, and public speaking.
At its core, the job involves analyzing complex meteorological data from satellite imagery, radar systems, and weather models to create accurate forecasts. Key responsibilities include:
- Data Analysis: Interpreting atmospheric conditions and computer-generated models to predict weather patterns.
- Graphic Creation: Using specialized software (like WSI or Baron) to design and produce compelling weather graphics for on-air presentation.
- On-Air Delivery: Communicating forecasts clearly and confidently during live television broadcasts, often without a script.
- Public Safety: Issuing timely warnings for severe weather events like tornadoes, hurricanes, and blizzards, which is a critical public service.
- Digital Content: Creating weather-related content for the station's website, social media platforms, and mobile apps.
Personalities like Cheryl Scott, who hold the title of "Chief Meteorologist," also have managerial duties, leading the station's weather team and shaping its overall weather coverage strategy.
Average Broadcast Meteorologist Salary
Determining a single "average" salary for a broadcast meteorologist is challenging because of the vast differences between local markets and national networks. However, authoritative data provides a strong baseline.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the broader category of Atmospheric and Space Scientists had a median annual wage of $100,550 in May 2022. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $58,380, while the top 10 percent earned more than $166,450.
Salary aggregators provide data specific to on-air roles:
- Salary.com reports that the median salary for a Meteorologist in the United States is approximately $108,103 as of November 2023. The typical range falls between $83,522 and $134,220.
- Glassdoor places the estimated total pay for a Broadcast Meteorologist in the U.S. at $84,435 per year, with a likely range between $64,000 and $112,000.
It's crucial to understand that these figures represent a national average. Entry-level professionals in small markets will start at the lower end of this spectrum, while seasoned meteorologists in major markets, like Cheryl Scott in Chicago, will earn significantly more.
Key Factors That Influence Salary
Compensation is not one-size-fits-all. Several key factors work together to determine a broadcast meteorologist's earning potential.
### Level of Education
A Bachelor of Science in Meteorology or a related atmospheric science field is the industry standard. This foundational education is non-negotiable for understanding the complex science behind weather. While an advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) can increase opportunities in research or government roles, for broadcasting, a key differentiator is professional certification. The Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) seal from the American Meteorological Society (AMS) is highly respected and can significantly enhance a candidate's credibility and salary prospects.
### Years of Experience
Experience is paramount in broadcasting. The career path is typically a ladder that moves through progressively larger media markets.
- Entry-Level (0-3 years): Meteorologists often start in small Designated Market Areas (DMAs), ranked 100 or higher. Here, they build on-air skills and gain forecasting experience. Salaries are modest, often in the $45,000 to $65,000 range.
- Mid-Career (4-10 years): With a strong portfolio, a meteorologist can move to a mid-sized market (DMA 25-100). Responsibilities increase, as does salary, typically ranging from $70,000 to $120,000.
- Senior/Chief (10+ years): Top-tier professionals compete for positions in major markets (DMA 1-25). Roles like Chief Meteorologist at a network-owned station in Chicago (the #3 DMA) carry immense responsibility and are compensated accordingly. Salaries in these markets can range from $150,000 to $400,000+, with national network stars earning even more.
### Geographic Location
In television, location is arguably the most significant salary driver. The industry is structured by Designated Market Areas (DMAs), which are geographic regions where audiences receive the same television and radio content.
- Top 10 Markets: Cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia offer the highest salaries due to larger audiences and greater advertising revenue. A chief meteorologist here is a major public figure.
- Mid-Sized Markets: Cities like Charlotte, St. Louis, or Orlando offer competitive salaries and a high quality of life.
- Small Markets: Locations like Billings, Montana, or Toledo, Ohio, are crucial training grounds but offer the lowest pay scales.
A meteorologist working in a top 5 market like Chicago can easily earn three to four times more than their counterpart in a market ranked 150th.
### Company Type
The station's ownership also plays a role. An Owned-and-Operated (O&O) station, which is directly owned by a major network (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX), often has a larger budget and higher pay scales than an affiliate station owned by a smaller broadcasting group like Sinclair or Gray Television. National cable networks, such as The Weather Channel or Fox Weather, have their own distinct salary structures that are highly competitive.
### Area of Specialization
Within a newsroom's weather department, there is a clear hierarchy that impacts pay.
- Chief Meteorologist: This is the top position. The chief leads the weather team, appears on the primary evening newscasts, and is the face of the station's weather coverage. This role commands the highest salary.
- Morning/Weekend Meteorologist: These are also key roles but generally come with less seniority and lower compensation than the chief.
- Weather Producer/Digital Meteorologist: These behind-the-scenes roles focus on creating graphics and online content. They require a meteorology degree but are compensated less than on-air talent.
Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for Atmospheric and Space Scientists will grow by 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
However, the outlook for on-air broadcast roles is more nuanced. While the need for skilled meteorologists to cover increasingly severe weather events is growing, the number of traditional television stations is not. Competition for on-air positions, especially in desirable markets, is exceptionally fierce. Aspiring professionals with strong digital skills and the ability to engage audiences on multiple platforms will have a distinct advantage.
Conclusion
Pursuing a career as a broadcast meteorologist is a challenging but potentially lucrative path for those who possess a rare blend of scientific aptitude and charismatic communication. While top-tier salaries like those earned by established professionals such as Cheryl Scott are the result of years of experience in a major market, the career offers a solid financial foundation at all levels.
Key Takeaways:
- A strong foundation in atmospheric science is essential.
- Salary is directly tied to market size (DMA) and experience.
- Top earners are typically Chief Meteorologists with 10+ years of experience in top 25 markets.
- While competition is intense, the demand for skilled weather communicators remains strong, especially in the digital space.
For anyone passionate about weather and public service, this career offers a unique opportunity to become a trusted, respected, and well-compensated leader in a community.