Chief Meteorologist

About the role

The Chief Meteorologist guides weather strategy and execution for the Memphis market in collaboration with the News Director. This role owns the end-to-end weather operation, setting the editorial vision and ensuring scientific accuracy across all broadcasts and digital platforms. You are responsible for translating complex meteorological data into clear, compelling, and actionable information for the community. The position demands strategic oversight of content, technology, and team development to maintain viewer trust and safety. You will define the standard for weather storytelling and presentation in the Memphis market. Success is measured by audience engagement, team performance, and the reliability of information during critical weather events. You act as the authoritative voice of meteorology for the station, leading by example and through collaboration.

Key facts

What you'll do

Weather coverage strategy is shaped with the News Director to serve Memphis viewers through comprehensive planning and analysis.

Daily weathercasts are crafted and presented to on-air and digital audiences by the team, ensuring consistency and accuracy in messaging.

The weather team schedule is organized to coordinate assignments and coverage efficiently, optimizing resources and personnel deployment.

Fans and viewers are engaged across multiple platforms, particularly during challenging weather conditions, to provide continuous updates and support.

Support for recruiting and hiring weather team members is provided in partnership with the News Director to build a strong and capable unit.

Coaching and mentoring guide the weather team through consistent feedback and development, fostering a culture of growth and excellence.

Original weather content is pitched and produced for every platform, integrating data, storytelling, and community needs into compelling narratives.

Leadership in weather visualization technology and graphics is driven through initiatives, pushing the boundaries of how weather is presented and understood.

Community presence is expanded through live shots and station appearances as needed, reinforcing the station's role as a trusted local resource.

Additional assignments are completed as directed by the News Director, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to organizational goals.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in meteorology and AMS Certification are mandatory, providing the foundational knowledge and professional recognition for the role.

A minimum of 7 years of on-air experience must be demonstrated, showcasing a proven track record in front of a camera and under pressure.

Documented leadership experience is required, highlighting the ability to manage people, projects, and processes effectively.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for conveying technical information in an accessible and engaging manner.

Reliable performance under pressure while meeting daily deadlines is required to maintain the integrity and timeliness of the operation.

Multiplatform newsgathering tools and resources must be understood and applied to ensure content is optimized for every channel and device.

Fluency with social media platforms and social management tools, including Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube, is required to engage audiences where they are.

A deep understanding of broadcast meteorology principles, including radar interpretation and forecasting techniques, is a non-negotiable standard for the position.

The ability to lead by example during high-stress situations, such as severe weather, is essential for guiding the team and ensuring public safety.

Commitment to ongoing professional development is expected to keep skills sharp and aligned with the latest advancements in the field.

Excellent organizational skills are necessary to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations simultaneously.

A collaborative mindset is required to work effectively with the News Director, producers, and other departments to achieve shared objectives.

The willingness to travel for coverage and outreach is necessary to fulfill the community engagement aspects of the role.

Adaptability to changing technologies, audience expectations, and media landscapes is crucial for long-term success in this position.

A dedication to accuracy, transparency, and ethical reporting is fundamental to maintaining the trust of the audience and the community.

Practical notes

This position is based in the Memphis market and serves local audiences through broadcast and digital channels.

The role includes on-air presentation, team leadership, and community engagement.

Travel may be required for coverage and outreach.

Typical interview steps

Leadership hiring usually includes a strategy case, a people scenario, and a values conversation. Candidates may be asked to turn around a struggling team or plan for growth. Past results are examined closely, especially how decisions were made. Interviewers dig into specific decisions you made and their consequences. Preparing two or three decision stories with numbers and lessons is the best use of time.

Good to know

Weather forecasting blends science, technology, and clear on-air communication.

Professionals in this field rely on advanced graphics systems and real-time data tools.

Strong leadership and storytelling skills shape effective coverage across multiple platforms.

Questions to ask

Useful questions for the interview: what a typical week looks like, how work is assigned, what tools the team uses, and how feedback works. Asking how the role has changed recently and what the team wishes it had known when joining is also reasonable. Questions about the manager's priorities are especially valued.

Career growth

Leadership careers move from manager to senior manager, director, and executive roles. Each step adds more scope and more responsibility for outcomes. The best leaders keep learning how to delegate, communicate, and decide. Leadership careers reward a record of building and developing people. The higher you go, the more your communication shapes the whole organization.