If you’re looking for a new job and don’t mind the cold, a new posting could be just the thing for you.
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is looking for people to work at its research stations in Antarctica.
The list of positions includes chefs, plumbers, carpenters, and plumbers, as well as plant operators, boating officers and meteorological observers.
With salaries starting at £30,244 and zero living costs, you might be tempted to apply.
However, life at the South Pole isn’t for the faint–hearted.
The entire Antarctic continent is engulfed in complete darkness for half the year, while residents have been known to face freezing –89.2°C (–128.6°F) blizzards.
‘If you think about what it takes to keep a community going – plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, engineers, chefs – there’s a job for that,’ said Mike Brian, who manages operations for the Rothsera Research Station.
‘The people working on our stations are ordinary people, often doing an ordinary job – just in an extraordinary place!’
The first batch of jobs have been posted on the BAS website, and include Agricultural Plant Operator, Diesel Power Generation Technician, Boating Officer, Diving Officer, Meteorological Observer and Radio Operator.
However, more vacancies will be posted over the next three months – including chefs, station leaders, and zoological field assistants.
The contracts run from six to 18 months and are flexible, while salaries start at £30,244 per annum, with a benefits package.
It’s also important to note that there are no living costs in Antarctica.
‘Accommodation, food, travel, specialist clothing, tools and training are all provided,’ BAS explained.
Phill Coolman, a carpenter at the Halley VI Research Station, first joined BAS six years ago, and has returned every season since.
‘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,’ he said.
‘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.’
It might be hard to picture what life in Antarctica is really like.
However, TikToker Matty Jordan (@marrykjordan) regularly shares clips of his life at the South Pole – including several survival tips.
Leaving dinner and drinks outside is a big no–no, as these can completely freeze before you even take a bite.
You’ll also need to wear at least three thick clothing layers when it’s –45.4°F (–43°C), or five if it hits below –58°F (–50°C).
This includes a specialised Extreme Cold Weather jacket, two layers of gloves, a hat, boots and even goggles.
Mr Jordan explained: ‘Many people have asked if we have big jackets to keep us warm but the most effective thing you can do to prepare for cold weather is to layer really well.
‘The thermal base layer is probably the layer you want to get right. We wear merino base layers.’
Intrigued? You can find out more about the positions through BAS’s recruitment pages here.
