Australia is looking for Antarctic stations personnel | Polar Journal
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Australia is looking for Antarctic stations personnel

Heiner Kubny 22. December 2021 | Science
We are also looking for kitchen staff in particular. Cook Brigid Dwyer poses in front of Davis Station. (Photo: David Barringhaus)

The Australian Antarctic Program is currently seeking up to 200 qualified professionals for 24 different positions at four different Antarctic research stations. The exotic work locations are in the Mawson, Davis and Casey stations and on Macquarie Island. Job applications for the 2022/23 season are now open. Personnel is sought in almost all occupational groups. The positions of station managers have already been filled.

Gemma Woldendorp, who has always wanted to visit Antarctica, has spent the last nine months as a Field Training Officer at Mawson Research Station. The fascination hasn’t gone away yet. “The first time a couple of curious emperor penguins got that close to me, I was truly humbled and amazed. You don’t realize how big they are until they’re standing in front of you three feet away,” she explained. (Photo: AAD)

Each station requires telecommunications, aviation, infrastructure, science, mechanical and medical support. Specialists are needed for these areas. It is important to emphasize that this is not a paid vacation. It can be challenging to work in an isolated location for an extended period of time.

‘Australian Antarctic Division’ psychologist Maree Riley said it was a unique opportunity to support Australia’s scientific efforts in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.

‘Where else can you visit a penguin colony on your day off?” said Maree Riley in passing.

“This is a great opportunity to visit a part of the world that few see, while making a very real and meaningful difference to the future of our planet.”

Inspection of the VHF repeater at Tarbuck Crag. (Photo: Matthew Gledhill)

“The selection process is rigorous because we have to make sure we’re not only hiring the right person for the job, but also someone who will fit into a small, self-sufficient community.”

Contracts vary by position and season, but generally run between four and 15 months.

Ms. Riley said AAD is looking for well-rounded, proactive, community-minded and flexible people and is especially encouraging women to apply.

“If you are a female professional or supervisor with a penchant for travel or change, we want to hear from you,” she said.

Ward doctor Jan Wallace is happy when she’s not busy. (Photo: Geoffrey Wallace)

Conditions for jobseekers

The vacancies are available to Australian citizens and Australian residents with employment rights in Australia or New Zealand citizens.

The annual base salary for a cook is $68,998 per year. While working in Antarctica, additional allowances totaling $63,437 per year will be paid.

Salaries vary by profession, with a ward physician receiving up to $207,000.

The deadline for applications is January 27, 2022.

“We are responsible for the technology on the wards and are looking for colleagues. Just get in touch.” (Photo: Amy Hobbs)

Website: for jobseekers

Heiner Kubny, PolarJournal

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