This is a temporary (aka term) forecasting position. It is a year long appointment that is renewable up to four years. It is not a position that can become permanent like most NWS openings. However, we will work with the selected forecaster to help him/her find a permanent position.
ZAU’s term forecaster position is open on USAjobs through May 6th:
Job Announcement # (DE): NWS-CR-2020-0021
A little about ZAU:
Center Weather Service Units embody Impact-based Decision Support Services. The Chicago/Aurora CWSU (ZAU) supports the fifth busiest airspace in the world and two core 30 airports including 2018’s busiest airport in the world, Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
In addition to creating icing, thunderstorm, and turbulence forecasts for the ZAU airspace, CWSU forecasters provide formal and ad-hoc verbal briefings to help air traffic controllers plan for and avoid hazardous weather. Forecasters then see the immediate impact of their forecasts.
Collaboration, communication, emotional intelligence, and innovation are essential to succeed at the CWSU because in addition to working directly with FAA partners, Chicago CWSU forecasters collaborate forecasts with WFO Chicago, AWC, and neighboring CWSUs. WFO and CWSU Chicago also swap forecasters allowing CWSU forecasters to refine their skills in both work environments.
The Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) is located in the western Chicago suburb of Aurora, IL, 40 miles west of Downtown Chicago. The surrounding area offers a variety of urban and rural living with activities ranging from Starved Rock State Park, Six Flags Great America, fairs and festivals, zoos, museums, theaters, and concerts of all sizes and musical genres.