Forecaster (Level 9)- DRR (Ref. WS05/092024) at The South African Weather Service (SAWS)

Job summary: 

• The forecaster is a shift-worker primarily responsible for forecasting and monitoring of weather, producing of weather forecasting products as well as severe weather warnings. 

Forecasting and Warning Services: 

• Generate and quality control public weather forecasts according to pre-determined time scales. These include commercial products and services. 
• Communicate public weather forecasts and severe weather warnings in different media platforms. 

Internal and External Customer Relations: 

• Liaise with clients as per office plan. 
• Represent SAWS at Stakeholder meetings. 
• Promote the awareness of SAWS products and services to all stakeholders. 

Administration:

• Perform routine office administration practices including periodic reporting, leave processing, administration of registers, transport administration, etc. 
• Assist in the control of acquired stock levels required for operational activities. 
• Assist in the effective use of assets and key infrastructure. 

Training, Development and Knowledge Management: 

• Assist in all training activities related to weather forecasting within the office. 
• Provide mentorship and training to junior personnel. 
• Conduct case-studies and other research to enhance the accuracy and quality of the products and services offered.  

Total Quality Management: 

• Develop and review meteorological processes and procedures. 
• Promote the SAWS Quality Policy and intergrade it into the day-to-day activities of the office. 
• Provide assistance during audits of the office as required. 
• Perform regular inspections to ensure all work done is according to documented requirements. 
• Ensure that the work environment complies with legislative requirements in relation to Occupational Health and Safety. 
• Promote a quality culture amongst the staff within the office. 

Minimum Requirements and Attributes: 

• BSc Honours Degree in Meteorology or equivalent 
• 3 years Weather Forecasting experience. 
• Ability to analyse and interpret weather charts, surface observations, upper air observations, weather codes, weather satellite and radar imageries. 
• Ability to analyse Numerical Weather Prediction and Ensemble Prediction System products to produce weather forecasts and warnings. 
• Comprehensive understanding of Impact-based forecasting. 
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal). 
• Ability to work well under pressure. 
• Clear understanding of SAWS policies 
• Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays. 
• Excellent corporate communications skills (written and verbal) 
• Computer Skills (Ms Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 
• Be able to respond well to pressure. 
• A valid Code EB or Code 08 driver’s license (without endorsements). 
• Have own reliable transport.