Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Isotherms • POP (Probability of Precipitation) • Barometric Pressure

Skew-T Log-P

Term from Weather Forecasting industry explained for recruiters

A Skew-T Log-P diagram is a fundamental tool that weather forecasters use to understand what's happening in the atmosphere. Think of it as a visual snapshot that shows how temperature, moisture, and winds change as you go up in the sky. Much like how doctors use X-rays to diagnose patients, meteorologists use these diagrams to predict weather conditions, storms, and potential severe weather. It's often called a "sounding" or "atmospheric sounding" in weather forecasting jobs. While it might look complex at first glance, it's essentially a way to visualize weather data that helps forecasters make better predictions.

Examples in Resumes

Analyzed Skew-T Log-P diagrams to forecast severe weather events

Trained junior meteorologists in interpreting Skew-T diagrams for daily forecasts

Used Skew-T Log-P and atmospheric soundings to improve forecast accuracy by 30%

Typical job title: "Weather Forecasters"

Also try searching for:

Meteorologist Weather Analyst Atmospheric Scientist Forecaster Weather Operations Specialist Aviation Weather Forecaster

Where to Find Weather Forecasters

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you use a Skew-T Log-P diagram to predict severe weather?

Expected Answer: A senior forecaster should explain how they analyze stability indices, identify potential thunderstorm development, and use the diagram to assess severe weather risk. They should mention looking at temperature and moisture layers, wind patterns, and stability indices like CAPE and CIN.

Q: How do you train others to interpret Skew-T Log-P diagrams?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching experience by explaining their approach to breaking down complex concepts, using real-world examples, and developing practical exercises for trainees. Should emphasize the importance of starting with basics and building to more complex interpretations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What key features do you look for when analyzing a Skew-T diagram?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how they identify temperature inversions, moisture layers, wind patterns, and stability indicators. Should mention the importance of comparing multiple time periods.

Q: How do you use Skew-T diagrams in daily forecasting?

Expected Answer: Should describe their process for incorporating Skew-T analysis into daily forecasts, including how they combine this information with other forecasting tools and models.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain what a Skew-T Log-P diagram shows?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic components: temperature line, dew point line, wind barbs, and pressure levels. Should understand that it shows vertical atmospheric conditions.

Q: How often are new Skew-T diagrams produced and why?

Expected Answer: Should know that these diagrams are typically produced twice daily through weather balloon launches, and understand why regular measurements are important for forecasting.