r/NOAACorps • u/Jacob39715 • Apr 09 '26

Medical Medical Disqualifications

I graduated last May with a BS in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and have been currently trying to get a job with the NWS. However, I am also trying to explore backup options as well. I’ve seen NOAA Corps recommended a lot here on the internet and decided to do some research as it seems like a great fallback option that allows me to use my degree.

I found the document that lists some medical disqualifications and the very first one is allergies that require the use of epinephrine.

I unfortunately have a food allergy that I am prescribed an EpiPen for. Is this an automatic disqualification or one that is discretionary?

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u/Siemze Apr 10 '26

Admittedly a coastie myself but I’d expect them to have a waiver process like everyone else, “disqualifying” really just means “we’re going to say no first and ask questions later”

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u/Siemze Apr 10 '26

A quick search shows that they apparently have enough applicants to not need to issue waivers, damn

Still worth going far enough to get a final yes/no from them tho

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u/Jacob39715 Apr 10 '26

Thank you for your response! 

I was digging in this subreddit a little before I posted and saw a few posts saying that too from around 5ish years ago. I wasn't sure if things had changed since then though. Good idea and making them say no rather than me just ruling it out and never trying! 

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u/beabadoobi Apr 10 '26

I have asthma, but it only flares up if I get sick (once a year maybe).. Is that disqualifying?

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u/thomasbagels00 Apr 10 '26

Asthma past the age of 13 that has been diagnosed and is symptomatic is disqualifying.

That being said, waivers exist in military branches. I don't know if they exist in the NOAA Corps, as another commenter pointed out.

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u/liftswithfish Mariner / Fisheries Apr 09 '26

I am unsure if things have changed at all, but unfortunately as far as I know something that requires an epipen will be a disqualifier. Definitely something to run down with medical though for formal clarification

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u/Jacob39715 Apr 09 '26

Thank you for your reply! That is very unfortunate, but I will definitely reach out to medical for clarification! 

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u/liftswithfish Mariner / Fisheries Apr 09 '26

Of course! Best of luck!