Flood Forecasting Centre - Hydrometeorologist

The Hydrometeorologist job represents the entry level into the Flood Forecasting Centre s (FFC) team of technical specialists. The appointment begins with a programme of meteorological or hydrological training (depending on the successful candidate(s) initial skill set), followed by hydrometeorology focussed training delivered through the Met Office College and the FFC s Hydrometeorology Technical Development Programme.

Based in the Met Office s Operations Centre, the successful candidate(s) will work at the forefront of flood forecasting science. They will be part of the FFC s 24x7 operational roster delivering a range of hydrometeorological products and services that have a significant input into customers (Category 1 and 2 Responders including the EA and Natural Resources Wales Flood Forecasting and Incident Management teams) decision-making and associated warning services. Team members will commit to working on the FFC s 24x7 roster which includes on-call arrangements. Team members will also have opportunities to work on projects to develop and improve the FFC s technical capability and customer focussed services.

The successful candidate(s) will be expected to engage with Continuing Professional Development activities which will complement day to day activities within the centre and provide opportunities to enhance skills and experience in areas such project management, customer engagement and service delivery.
The team
The FFC continues to work to improve its technical capability to forecast, model and warn against all natural sources of flooding to provide emergency responders with longer lead times to prepare and respond. Through its team of hydrometeorologists the FFC brings together the disciplines of hydrology and meteorology to help bridge the gap between weather and flood forecasting in order to provide a seamless service from weather forecasts through to impacts on the ground.
Experience/skills required
• A degree in meteorology, a physical science or mathematics (at 2:2 or higher), or relevant technical experience.
• A-levels or the direct equivalent (e.g. Scottish Highers) in mathematics and physics are desirable, however, alternative ways of demonstrating the required standard in maths and physics may also be acceptable, including through relevant technical experience.
• Expertise in hydrology, with capability in areas such as hydrological modelling, flood risk management and flood forecasting, or already having successfully completed the Met Office Operational Meteorologist Foundation Course or equivalent.

Note the above criteria are essential, please provide evidence in your application.
Contact and additional information
If not already a qualified meteorologist the successful candidate will need to undertake a 3-month training course at the Met Office Exeter (beginning November 2022), followed by 3 months on-the-job training (which includes shift work). Annual leave is restricted during these periods.

If not already an experienced hydrologist the successful candidate will need to undertake training in relevant areas of hydrology.

Continuation in the role will be conditional on the successful candidate completing and passing the Met Office Operational Meteorologist Foundation Course and the subsequent on-the job training and assessments (if not already a qualified meteorologist).

Security vetting is required.

For further details or to arrange an informal discussion please contact David Price ().