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National Weather Service
Professional Development Series
Professional Competency Unit


Surface Observing Program

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PCU 2: Program Administration

Producer: Joe Facundo, Office of Operational Systems


Description of Job Duty Competency to be Achieved

Demonstrate the ability to administer the functions of the surface observing programs.


Description of Need

Must possess the skills and understanding of the requirements necessary to perform the management functions of this program in support of the NWS mission.


Specific Job Task Skills and Knowledge

1. Draft operating instructions and procedures for the surface program.

2. Prepare management information systems reports.

3. Conduct inventories and maintain supply records.

4. Plan and perform self-inspections.

5. Plan and conduct quality control and product improvement programs.

6. Maintain current Weather Service Operations Manual.

7. Maintain current Operational Handbooks.

8. Maintain current Engineering Notes.

9. Facilitate observer testing/certification process.

10. Demonstrate knowledge of system and sensor outage procedures.

11. Knowledge of station inspection program.

12. Conduct data surveys.

13. Conduct observer and instructor training.

14. Act as COTR for contract observing locations.

15. Demonstrate knowledge of safety requirements relating to all aspects of the surface observing program.


Instructional Components

Instructional Component 2.1: PDS Team suggests a Remote Training module(s) be developed to cover the following:

  • Management and Information Systems reports.
  • Conducting inventories and maintaining supply records
  • Quality control and product improvement programs.
  • Observer/instructor training and testing/certification process.
  • Inspection program.

    Instructional Component 2.2: Receive on-the-job training on the following:

  • Maintaining current Operational handbooks and Engineering notes.
  • Demonstrate system and sensor outage procedures.
  • How to conduct data surveys.
  • How to act as a COTR for contract observers.

    Instructional Component 2.3: PDS Team suggests a video teletraining session be developed to discuss operating instructions and procedures, and safety requirements relating to the surface observing program.


    Return to Surface Observing Program PDS page


    Last reviewed or updated on 3/14/01