Part-Time Storm Chaser

Part-Time Storm Chaser (Field Weather Coverage)

KOCO-TV is looking for a part-time Storm Chaser to join one of our many two-person severe weather chase teams. This is high-pressure, real-time work supporting on-air meteorologists during rapidly changing conditions. One team member drives. The other monitors radar, data, and communications. Precision, calm judgment, and ethical decision-making are non-negotiable. This role reports to the News Director.

Role Overview
Storm Chasers provide critical, ground-level reports during severe weather events. This position may serve as either the driver or the radar/data operator, depending on assignment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate a vehicle or monitor radar, weather data, and communications from the passenger seat during severe weather.
• Capture live and recorded video using station-authorized equipment for on-air and digital platforms.
• Report live on-air observations when directed.
• Relay accurate, timely storm details to station meteorologists, including severity, movement, and real-time conditions from the field.
• Monitor weather conditions before and during deployments to anticipate storm development.
• Adhere strictly to journalistic ethics, safety protocols, and station policies at all times.

Work Schedule

• No fixed schedule. Hours are dictated by weather conditions.
• Availability required on short notice when severe weather is forecast.
• Assignments are made at the direction of station meteorologists or news management.
• In-person attendance is required.

Important Note
This is not a casual field position. Severe weather coverage is intense, unpredictable, and safety critical. Teamwork, judgment, and professionalism are essential.

Required Qualifications

• Clean driving record (required for all team members).
• Strong situational awareness and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Understanding of and commitment to journalistic ethics and accuracy.
• Ability to follow direction precisely and communicate clearly in fast-moving situations.
• Willingness to work in all weather conditions.

Values in Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That’s why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization that fosters collaboration and open communication, ensuring that the content we create is authentic, accurate, and connected to the communities we serve.

Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching nearly 25 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry’s premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.