Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work in Antarctica

Dr James Greenhalgh is no stranger to working in remote locations, but a stint in Antarctica may be his most worthwhile experience yet.

The South Australian man is the sole doctor on Casey Station, one of three permanent bases and research outposts maintained by the Australian Antarctic Division.

As a part of the tight-knit community of 30 people, his role is to provide medical care and help in emergencies.

While the role comes with its challenges, the experience and scenery is second to none.

“It’s pretty epic, I’ve loved being down here,” Dr Greenhalgh said.

“It’s an awesome opportunity to come to one of the most remote untouched and beautiful parts of the world.”

Dr Greenhalgh gained the role through the Australian Antarctic Program.

The team is currently looking for more than 200 people to fill 29 different roles across Australia’s three scientific research stations including Casey, Davis and Mawson.

There are vacancies for electricians, carpenters, mechanics, plumbers and chefs.

The team is also looking for specialists in science, aviation, voyage, field leadership and telecommunications.

Salaries for the entry-level roles start at about $79,000 and go up to $150,000 for leadership roles, with six and 12-month contracts.

The opportunity also gives successful applicants the chance to earn $72,000 in allowances over a 12-month period for working in a remote location and doing overtime.

Expenses such as accommodation, fuel, meals, phone and utilities are covered.

The program offers workers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the coldest region on the planet.

Candidates must be an Australian citizen, have a trade qualification with several years of experience and be community-minded.

“I think to come down to Antarctica you need to be adventurous, flexible and team-minded because nothing you do here is alone,” Dr Greenhalgh said.

“You’re always working as a part of a team.”

Head of recruitment Gina Woodward said the placements offered the chance to make incredible memories and friends for life.

“If you want to have that once-in-a-lifetime experience that a lot of other people don’t get to do, then this is an amazing opportunity,” she said.

“You’ll get a chance to see things that you never thought you’d see beyond pictures on social media.

“I think being able to see the vastness of such an untouched environment is amazing.

“It’s such a different version of what people see from tourist ships, and you’re seeing the science happening as well.”

Applications to live and work in Antarctica as part of the program close on October 31.