Aviation Meteorological Observer

The purpose of this part-qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the knowledge, understanding, competence and experience required to operate as an Aviation Meteorological Observer. An Aviation Meteorological Observer records surface meteorological variables and codes and decodes aviation-based weather information. A qualified learner will be able to: • Gather, record, code and decode surface meteorological variables and phenomena and synoptic land and ship messages. In addition, learner attributes (including problem solving, decision making, ethics, interpreting information and communication) will be integrated in the learning process. Learners will have to prove competence of the above knowledge, skills, attitudes, responsibilities, and tasks imbedded in the exit level outcomes.

The need for this part-qualification stems from the necessity to revise and update an existing unit standards-based qualification (SAQA ID: 58995; National Certificate: Weather). During this revision, a need was also identified for the development of a part- qualification. This part-qualification forms part of the Occupational Certificate: Meteorological Technician, Level 5. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has prescribed rules and regulations that guide the timeous dissemination of accurate weather observations, which is an international obligation for every country with a national weather service. These observations must be recorded and coded in a specific manner. Knowledge of weather conditions is fundamental to the planning and operational activities of various industry sectors including agriculture, aviation, construction, marine and tourism. In addition, these weather observations are used by local communities to plan their daily activities. To make this information available it must be recorded and coded in a specific manner. Data obtained from weather observations also forms the basis of weather forecasts and related sciences. All observations are stored in databases which are used for longer term planning and research of global weather changes. Climate data also needs to undergo stringent quality control processes prescribed by the WMO to ensure its long-term value. This part-qualification, by addressing the need for accurate weather data, in accordance with international standards is essential for the operation and growth of the aviation, construction, sector and therefore important for the economic growth of the country. This part-qualification will also benefit society as information on weather is of the utmost importance for the health and safety of aviation activities. This part-qualification will benefit learners, as it has been designed as part of a qualification to serve as entry into a career where there is internationally a scarcity of qualified people at various levels with job opportunities in the Meteorological Sector. Once qualified, Learners will be able to complete the additional modules of the Occupational Certificate: Meteorological Technician, Level 5 that will allow them to further their studies to a Level 6 qualification. Typical learners likely to be attracted to this part-qualification include school leavers with an interest in science and technology enjoying working outdoors. This part-qualification will contribute to the full development of the learner within the Weather Services industry by providing recognition, further mobility, and transportability within the sector. This part-qualification is a part of the Occupational Certificate: Meteorological Technician, Level 5. Learners wishing to become a Meteorological Technician can either enrol for this part-qualification (Aviation Meteorological Observer, Level 5) and then later enrol for the Occupational Certificate: Meteorological Technician, Level 5) to qualify as a Meteorological Technician. Should a learner wish to follow this route at a later stage, he/she will be granted recognition for modules already completed (CAT).

1. Gather, record, code and decode surface meteorological variables and phenomena, applying standard statistical methods and procedures.