NWS Duluth Student Volunteer Program

Our next student volunteer opportunity will be available during the Summer 2024.

***Applications are due by 11:59 pm CST February 29th to be considered***

Point of Contact

For more information, please contact:

Patrick Ayd (Patrick.Ayd@noaa.gov)

NWS Duluth Volunteer Position Description

There are three components that are offered through a volunteer position.

1. Foundational meteorology and NWS operational knowledge development (both remote and in-person) including:

• WFO Duluth programs (Marine, Aviation, Fire Weather, Hydrology etc…)
• WFO Duluth routine and high impact products and decision support services
• Introduction to radar, satellite and NWP operational applications 
• Volunteers will complete a core set of required and locally created training modules/presentations

2. In-office, hands on operational experience under the supervision of the Forecaster In Charge or Science and Operations Officer (SOO)

• AWIPS familarization (our internal operational system) 
• Introduction to WFO Duluth routine and high impact operations including hands on familiarization of data acquisition, observation and data QC duties
• Forecast and impacts messaging and decision support including NWSChat and social media
• Graphics generation and dissemination 
• Area Forecast Discussion (AFD) and Hazardous Weather Outlook (HWO) creation
• Communications and report generation during high impact weather

3. Special Project

• Local research or case study of interest under the guidance of a Forecasters or the SOO.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Must be a U.S. Citizen.
2. Be able to commit to at least 3 to 6 hours per week in office at NWS Duluth. An additional 3 to 6 hours per week can be completed remotely working on a project
3. Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Meteorology/Atmospheric Science or a related field (Examples include but not limited to): Environmental Science, Climatology, Hydrology, GIS, Marine Sciences.
4. Be in good academic standing as defined by the educational institution (at least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale). 
5. Security Clearance required

What to Expect 

• The volunteer will work at least 3 to 6 hours in-person at NWS Duluth. An additional 3 to 6 hours per week can be worked remotely to work on a project.

Application Process and Deadlines

1. This application form: https://forms.gle/qfBYCvdQ3EnW4Wwm6
2. Resume
3. Cover Letter 
4. Unofficial Transcript
5. Letter of Recommendation from a professor in your field of study

Once you have completed the application form, please email your resume, cover letter, unofficial transcript and letter of recommendation to Patrick.Ayd@noaa.gov.
 

Other Related Opportunities

Job Shadow Opportunities

Job shadowing opportunities are available to students at high school or college/university academic levels. The job shadow would follow an NWS Duluth Meteorologist on shift for a couple of hours to understand daily operations. For inquires or requests to arrange a job shadow opportunity, please email Patrick.Ayd@noaa.gov 

Note: Any job shadow arrangement is weather dependent and could be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice. 

Pathways Program and the Hollings Scholarship Program​

NOAA offers several student opportunities, including paid student internships through the Pathways Program and undergraduate scholarships through the Hollings Scholarship Program.

All opportunities will be advertised on USAJOBS (usajobs.gov). Use the keyword search "1399." The 1399 Series is for Student Trainee nationwide vacancies.