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200 Australians Needed For Jobs In Research Stations In Antarctica

200 Australians Needed For Jobs In Research Stations In Antarctica

The Australian Antarctic Program is searching for 200 tradespeople to work on four Antarctic research stations.

Hannah Blackiston

Hannah Blackiston

The Australian Antarctic Program is searching for tradespeople to work on their research stations on Antarctica.

Two hundred workers are needed to fill 24 roles across the program's stations, including plumbers, electricians, chefs and engineering supervisors.

Australia's three Antarctic stations, Mawson, Davis and Casey stations, as well as the sub-Antarctic station on Macquarie Island, all need workers.

Each station requires telecommunications, aviation, infrastructure, science, mechanical and medical support.

Australian Antarctic Division psychologist Maree Riley said the roles are necessary for the stations to continue functioning.

"These roles keep the lights on, the water running and people warm in an unforgiving environment. Each job carries a huge responsibility but where else can you visit a penguin colony on your day off?" Riley said.

"This is an awesome opportunity to visit a part of the world few see while making a very real and meaningful difference to the future of our planet," Riley said.

The group is seeking people who are versatile, proactive, community-minded and flexible for them to work in the Antarctic environment.

Riley also said the group is particularly encouraging women to apply.

"If you are a female tradie or supervisor with a taste for travel or change, we want to hear from you," she said.

Contracts usually run for between four and 15 months and workers are paid an allowance to compensate for living in a remote and isolated environment.

"It's important to emphasise this isn't a paid holiday. It can be challenging work in an isolated place," said Riley.

"The selection process is rigorous because we have to ensure we are recruiting not only the right person for the job, but someone who is going to fit in to a small self-reliant community."

Field training officer Gemma Woldendorp has been at the Mawson research station since March.

Field training officers are responsible for search and rescue, as well as training other expeditioners for travelling and working in the field.

After nearly a year at the station, she is still in awe of Antarctica.

"I was truly humbled and amazed the first time some curious emperor penguins came up so close to me. You don't realise how big they are until they are standing a metre away from you," she said.

Her advice for others looking to join the Australian Antarctic Program is to immerse themselves in community life.

"Be prepared to be part of a community apart from your main job down south. We have a great crew here and everyone pitches in and helps each other out."

Featured Image Credit: Australian Antarctic Program

Topics: News, Australia