Construction professionals offered ‘ultimate career change’ in Antarctica

BRITISH Antarctic Survey (BAS) is looking for skilled professionals to work at its research stations in Antarctica.

Carpenters, chefs, plumbers, and plant operators are being encouraged to apply for a job billed as offering the ‘ultimate career change’ for those seeking adventure at the end of the Earth.

BAS researchers discovered the ozone hole in 1985, and today, its scientists are studying how the frozen parts of our planet are changing as our climate warms, and what this means for people around the world.

The organisation’s Antarctic research stations are small, self-sufficient communities. Mike Brian began his career with BAS as a polar guide at Rothera Research Station and now manages operations for the station.

He said, “If you think about what it takes to keep a community going – plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, engineers, chefs – there’s a job for that. The people working on our stations are ordinary people, often doing an ordinary job – just in an extraordinary place!

“Working for BAS is a job unlike any other and an experience that will provide memories to last a lifetime. Successful applicants will work in some of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth, building lifelong friendships and contributing to vital science that is helping us understand our changing world.”

Phill Coolman is a carpenter at Halley VI Research Station. He first came to the station six years ago and has returned every season since. His role ranges from maintaining the station to solving practical problems to help carry out science in this extreme environment.

He commented, “Being a carpenter in Antarctica requires adaptability and teamwork. I’ve gained skills here that I’ve carried back to the “real world” and done things I never thought I would get the chance to do. Halley is a not only a station and a team, it’s a home and a family, and we all work together to keep the station and science running, even when the weather has other ideas! I planned on coming to Antarctica for one season and I’ve come back every season for the last 6 years and have no desire to stop any time soon.”

The first batch of jobs – including agricultural plant operator, diesel power generation technician, boating officer, diving officer, meteorological observer, and radio operator are now on the BAS website.

Contracts run from six to 18 months and are flexible. Salaries start at £30,244 per annum, with a benefits package. There are no living costs in Antarctica – accommodation, food, travel, specialist clothing, tools, and training are all provided.

Project Scotland spoke to BAS in 2022 on how Scottish construction professionals were at the forefront of an innovative Antarctic build. To read the article, click here.