In general terms, a Meteorologist is someone who observes, reports and forecasts weather conditions. There are several different kinds of Meteorologists, including the following:
-       Weather forecasters
-       Climatologists
-       Researchers in Atmospheric Sciences
-       Consulting Meteorologists
-       Lecturers
-       Weather broadcasters
Meteorology is a tough subject, which requires pre/co-requisite knowledge in higher mathematics, advanced physics and chemistry, as well as a good computer proficiency.  The basis requirement for becoming a Meteorologist is a BSc degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences. Another option is to first get a BSc in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or Engineering and then follow an MSc Course in Meteorology. Teaching, research or management positions usually require an MSc degree or a Ph.D. The responsibility of collecting and reporting observational weather data is normally undertaken by Meteorological Technicians, who do not need to possess an academic degree. Their qualification is normally obtained through completion of technical-level courses of a varying duration – from a few months to 1-2 years, depending on the envisaged work. For more formal information on the qualification requirements for Meteorologists and Meteorological Technicians see new 
WMO-No. 1083, Parts 2 and 3, respectively.