How to: Work in Antarctica

“How do I get a job in Antarctica?”

This has been the most often asked question on my Instagram and Facebook posts.* So on Monday I took the opportunity at lunch to ask my table “How did you get a job here?” And was given an earful. Then I followed my own oft-advice - “Google it!” And so here we are…

…And so here you go. Swallow a red pill, take a sip of your favorite beverage to wash it down, and go look at far the rabbit hole goes:

1. Go to USAP.gov

2. On the left side bar, select “Jobs and Opportunities”

3. Then look through the options, open what’s interesting to you, update your resume and start applying

80% will be applying through Leidos or Amentum.** If you have telecommunications experience; an engineering background; GIS studies; any experience operating with helicopters; mid-level medical practice (NP or PA): make sure you look at all the other options!

There are two unique programs available for K-12 STEM teachers and Artisists/Writers/Journalists. They are not filled every year, typically because of budget constraints.

*The second most often asked question seems to be “Why are you driving tractors to the South Pole?”

**My meathead explanation: The US Antarctic Program is managed by the National Science Foundation (NSF), and since the mid-1990’s has awarded the primary “base” operations contract every 10 years. It has been held by Antarctic Support Associates, Ratheon, and Lockheed. It’s currently being held by the Antarctic Services Contract (ASC) - a joint venture of Leidos, Amentum, and GSC/Six-Mile. GHG (telecommunications) is a sub-contract to Amentum. Everyone else holds separate contracts with the NSF. And just for a heads up, a new operations contract was supposed to awarded this year, but the government shutdown in September 2025 delayed it far enough that the NSF has elected to extend the ASC contract one more year. So sometime in 2026 a new contractor should be announced, and they will be taking over in March 2027. For the grunt on the ground, lower management, and even most of middle management, this just changes who signs the paychecks and doesn’t effect employment. But it’s good to be aware of it.