Student Volunteer Program

Student Opportunities in the NWS

Job Shadowing

Unpaid

One or two day job shadow opportunities can be arranged for interested college students when staffing and weather permits. Some high school students may also be eligible for job shadowing. Job shadowing provides first hand experience and knowledge of the day-to-day operations of WFO Mobile. For more information on setting up a potential job shadow, please reach out to our Meteorologist In Charge and Student Volunteer Coordinator (contact information below):

Student Volunteer Program

Unpaid

Purpose
The Student Volunteer Program is an opportunity for students to learn about the structure and mission of the NWS. The program is structured to provide insight into what it's like to work at a weather forecast office as a meteorologist. Selected students will be given hand-on experience with numerous NWS Weather Forecast Office functions and duties which include but are not limited to: local research projects, outreach events, and observation of and participation during high impact weather events. Students will also be able to participate in forecasting exercises, storm surveys, and mock NWS interviews; all while working alongside our team of meteorologists. 


Eligibility
NWS Mobile typically partners with the University of South Alabama when it comes to recruiting for the Student Volunteer Program. Although, some exceptions are possible during the summer semester. The program is open to all interested Junior and Senior undergraduate students who meet the following criteria:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in meteorology or a related field (such as atmospheric science, environmental science, climatology, hydrology, etc.)
• It is preferable that the student be enrolled in or have already completed MET 354 (Dynamic Met I) by the time they begin volunteering.
• Must be in good academic standing, with  a 2.7 overall GPA and a 3.0 GPA in core meteorology coursework. (Some exceptions may be made by for highly motivated students and upon written or verbal communication by a school staff member.)

Applications
An application announcement is normally sent to USA students via the Earth Science Department Chair during the Spring semester for the upcoming new school year. Students who meet the eligibility requirements should submit the application when this announcement is sent out. 

Selection Process
NWS Mobile and the University of South Alabama will coordinate on the selection of student volunteers. NWS Mobile will also conduct interviews prior to the final selection process. Typically, a maximum number of two volunteers will be selected after the review of applicants. The Meteorologist In Charge will give final approval of the selections. The Student Volunteer Coordinator will work with the volunteers to complete the necessary onboarding tasks and formulate a weekly volunteer schedule. All applicants will be notified via email of their selection status after the approvals have been made.

*NOTE: Selected students will have to complete a federal security background check that must be completed about one month before the start of the internship.

Pathways Program

Paid

More To Come...

Local Points of Contact
Jason Beaman (Meteorologist In Charge) | Jason.beaman@noaa.gov

Caitlin Baldwin (Meteorologist/Student Volunteer Coordinator) | Caitlin.baldwin@noaa.gov