Electrician, cook and hairdresser jobs paid 35,000 euros a year: accommodation and meals provided, in the coldest place on the planet
British and American research stations in Antarctica are expanding their teams for next season, offering positions that aren't just for scientists. Carpenters, electricians, cooks or hairdressers are just some of the sought-after jobs, but candidates must be prepared to deal with extreme cold, isolation and living in confined spaces.
Cook at Antarctic research station PHOTO: British Antarctic Survey (BAS)
The British Antarctic Survey (BAS), the United Kingdom's polar institute, and the United States Antarctic Program annually recruit staff for operational and support activities at their stations on the southernmost continent.
In addition to researchers, available positions include carpenters, plumbers, doctors or barbers. However, the major challenge is not the cold, but the isolation and living in a restricted environment, writes the BBC.
Dan McKenzie, leader of the Halley VI station in Antarctica, currently coordinates a team of 40 people. Originally from the north of England and a former marine engineer, McKenzie first arrived on the mainland in 2019 at Rothera Station.
“I've always been drawn to adventure and the wildest places”he says, in a satellite interview, for the quoted source.
During the Antarctic summer, temperatures range between -20 and -5 degrees Celsius, with highs rarely exceeding -5°C. In winter, thermometers can drop to -40°C. Summer brings continuous light for weeks, and the Halley VI station focuses on studies of the atmosphere, outer space, ozone layer monitoring and analysis of the Brunt Ice Shelf.
Dan McKenzie, Halley VI station leader in Antarctica photo: Dan McKenzie
The station leader has complex responsibilities: management of supply, safety, team training and emotional support of members, in an environment where privacy is limited and strict routine can create tensions.
Candidates are tested for conflict resolution skills and undergo training programs before departure.
Salaries start at around 35,000 euros per year, with accommodation and meals provided.
According to the cited publication, BAS annually recruits up to 150 people, most of them for operational roles, essential for the operation of the stations. In total, about 5,000 people work in Antarctica during the summer at about 80 stations operated by about 30 countries.
