Southern Company

Applied Meteorology Data Scientist

Southern Company$90K — $120K *
Energy & Utilities
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related field required.
  • Advanced degree in any of these fields preferred.
  • Advanced statistical analysis skills including multivariable analysis and predictive modeling.
  • Strong programming skills in Python, R, and SQL; familiarity with cloud platforms like Databricks is a plus.
  • Experience in developing complex predictive models and data-driven decision support tools.
  • Ability to solve vague problems and provide clear, actionable insights.
  • Experience in the electric utility sector is a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development of meteorological analytics initiatives and decision-support tools.
  • Partner with data scientists for experiments related to weather and climate risks.
  • Develop predictive models based on numerical weather prediction outputs and historical data.
  • Translate complex meteorological data into insights for non-technical stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with users to identify gaps and enhance weather analytics solutions.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams and mentor junior analysts.
  • Stay updated on trends in meteorological modeling and data science relevant to the utility industry.

Benefits

  • Flexible work arrangements with potential for remote work and travel to Birmingham.
  • Collaborative work environment focused on advanced analytics and data science solutions.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and mentoring within the analytics field.
  • Engagement with emerging technologies in machine learning and climate risk analytics.
  • Contributions to impactful projects supporting commercial and operational effectiveness.
Full Job Description
Job Description

WORK LOCATION
This position will be located at the Energy Center in Birmingham, AL. Candidates living outside of the Birmingham area may be considered with the expectation that they are able to successfully telework and are willing to travel to Birmingham four days per week.

JOB SUMMARY

Structuring and Analysis supports Commercial Operations and operating companies by providing solutions to complex, and often weather-driven business challenges through advanced analytics and data science.

This position is responsible for collecting, organizing, mining, and analyzing complex datasets-including meteorological, atmospheric, and environmental data-to generate actionable insights that enable informed decision-making and operational effectiveness. Specifically, this role leads and coordinates meteorology-focused data science initiatives supporting Commercial Operations through weather- and climate-informed risk analysis, predictive modeling, and decision-support tool development.

The position requires a strong working knowledge of applied meteorology, atmospheric science, mathematical and statistical methods, and modern data science practices. Success in this role also depends on the ability to manage multiple analytic initiatives, translate technical results into clear business insights, and partner effectively with stakeholders across Commercial Operations, Planning, and operating companies.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead and coordinate the development of meteorological and weather-driven analytics initiatives, including internal tools, modeling approaches, and decision-support methodologies.
  • Partner with data scientists and meteorologists to design experiments and analyses that test assumptions related to weather, climate variability, and operational risk.
  • Oversee development and application of predictive and prescriptive models incorporating numerical weather prediction outputs, historical weather data, and climate signals to support commercial and operational decisions.
  • Translate complex meteorological and analytic outputs into clear, actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
  • Collaborate with end users to identify business needs, gaps, and opportunities for improved weather- and climate-informed analytics solutions.
  • Provide leadership by coordinating cross-functional teams, mentoring analysts, and promoting best practices in data science and applied meteorology.
  • Stay current on emerging trends in meteorological modeling, climate risk analytics, machine learning, and data science technologies relevant to the electric utility industry.
  • Ensure analytics solutions are well-documented, maintainable, and aligned with business objectives and delivery timelines.

All major job responsibilities require strong quantitative, statistical, and analytical skills, combined with effective communication and project leadership capabilities.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education:
  • A degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, or a closely related meteorological analytical field is required.
  • Additional degrees in quantitative finance, economics, mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, or similar analytical disciplines are a plus.
  • An advanced degree in any of these fields is preferred.


Experience / Skills:
  • Advanced statistical analysis skills, including multivariable analysis, optimization, and predictive modeling.
  • Strong working knowledge of applied meteorology and experience evaluating and using numerical weather prediction models (e.g., GFS, NAM, HRRR, ECMWF).
  • Strong programming and technical competency in large-scale data analysis using Python, R, and SQL; experience with cloud-based analytics platforms such as Databricks is preferred.
  • Experience designing, developing, testing, and documenting complex systems, including predictive models, machine learning algorithms, and decision-support tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with large datasets and databases; familiarity with big data and data management technologies is a plus.
  • Ability to solve ambiguous or open-ended problems by creating structure and delivering actionable insights.
  • Strong consulting and project leadership skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across functions.
  • Ability to build productive relationships and work in a fast-paced, competitive environment while handling multiple assignments and conflicting priorities
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with consistent, on-time delivery.
  • Continuous learner with an interest in emerging analytics, AI-assisted workflows, and evolving applied meteorology practices.
  • Experience in the electric utility industry, particularly weather-driven impacts to power generation or commercial optimization, is a plus.


TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires very little travel.

About the Team

Southern Company Services

About Southern Company

With 4.4 million customers and more than 42,000 megawatts of generating capacity, Atlanta-based Southern Company is the premier energy company serving the Southeast. A leading U.S. producer of electricity, Southern Company owns electric utilities in four states and a growing competitive generation company, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and retail electric prices that are significantly below the national average. Southern Company has been listed the top ranking U.S. electric service provider in customer satisfaction for nine consecutive years by the American Customer Satisfaction Index.

Southern Company Careers

Join the dynamic team at Southern Company, a leader in energy innovation and a champion of sustainable practices. As one of the most respected companies in the energy sector, Southern Company offers unparalleled job opportunities that promise not only professional growth but also a commitment to diversity and leadership development.

Work You’ll Do

At Southern Company, we are not just about power generation; we are about empowering our team to innovate and lead the industry. By joining our team, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field, using your skills to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change.

Explore a World of Opportunities

Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Southern Company has a place for you. Our wide range of employment options ensures that every team member can find a path that best suits their career ambitions and skills.

Innovate and Lead

Southern Company is at the forefront of technological innovation in the energy sector. Our team members are encouraged to lead projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of what is possible in energy production and management.

Grow and Develop

We believe in nurturing the potential of our employees through targeted diversity training, leadership workshops, and continuous professional development. Career growth at Southern Company is not just a possibility—it is an expectation.

Be Part of Our Culture

Southern Company’s culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and inclusion. We celebrate diversity and believe that it drives innovation. Our team is our family, and we support each other in achieving personal and professional goals.

Benefits That Go Beyond

Choosing a career at Southern Company means enjoying a range of benefits designed to enrich your life and support your lifestyle. From health and wellness programs to retirement plans, we ensure our team members are taken care of.

Join Our Team

Ready to power up your career? Explore the job opportunities at Southern Company today. We are actively hiring and looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven individuals. Enhance your skills, join a community of innovators, and work towards a sustainable future.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Southern Company by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and practical tips to advance your career.

Networking and Career Advancement

At Southern Company, networking and internal mobility are key components of career advancement. Connect with leaders, engage in cross-departmental projects, and take your professional journey to new heights.

Prepare for Your Interview

Make your mark from the first interview. Visit our career site for tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and making a lasting impression.

Join Southern Company—where careers glow brighter!

SEARCH SOUTHERN COMPANY JOBS Stay ahead of the curve in your career with Southern Company, where innovation meets tradition and every employee is empowered to excel.
Learn more about Southern Company
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$77.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+3%
Revenue
$20.3 billion

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