Peninsula Field Camp Assistant

The United States Antarctic Program has an opening for a Field Camp Assistant supporting National Science Foundation-funded field science on the Antarctic Peninsula. This a dynamic position working in remote locations to prepare for and assist camp operations for field scientists. This is a contractual position, physically strenuous for short and intense bursts. The candidate must be able to deploy to remote locations: either our cargo hub of Punta Arenas, Chile, or via the Antarctic Research Vessel Nathaniel B. Palmer to areas along the Antarctic Peninsula for day trips or multi-day camping. The person in this position must have an active resume leading remote camping groups, be capable of lifting up to 35lbs, willing and able to pass a medical pre-qualification process, and pass a national security background check.

*** Deployment to Antarctica will be necessary (approximately 4-6 months per year, ~January - April). The candidate in the position must complete the physical and dental examinations required by the NSF for deploying to Antarctica. ***

Additional work includes camp pack up 2 times a year in Chile, ~3 weeks per session (October and April).

Due to contract requirements, US Citizenship is required.

Must obtain a Public Trust security clearance prior to start date. This process could take up to 4 months.

Your greatest work is ahead! 

About the Antarctic Support Contract:

Leidos Antarctic Support Contract (ASC) is the prime contractor to the National Science Foundation (NSF) in support of the United States Antarctic Program (USAP). Leidos supports the NSF’s Office of Polar Program’s Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics by aligning with their Mission and Vision Statements:

• Vision:  Expanding our scientific reach in Antarctica through increased operational and logistical effectiveness.

• Mission:  To provide the operational and logistical platform necessary for the U.S. to conduct world-class science in Antarctica and maintain its active and influential presence on the continent.

Leidos ASC provides science and logistics support for approximately 150 science and technical events across three geographically remote research stations; McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, and South Pole Station and several deep field sites across Antarctica. Each station or field site supports world class research across multiple science disciplines.  The planning and implementation of science support requirements in Antarctica is a critical part of our mission.

To learn more about the Leidos Antarctic Support contract, click here.

Are you ready to join a team dedicated to a mission? Begin your journey of a flourishing and meaningful career, share your resume with us today!

The Challenge:

• Organize, prep and pack expedition gear for day trips up to multi-week camping trips in Antarctic conditions

• Be able to lead a full camp set-up/take-down including: moving cargo, setting up tents, cooking station, waste station, fueling areas, medical area, etc. according to USAP standards

• Maintain and repair camping and mountaineering gear at end of season in-shop or complete field-repairs in-situ as needed.

• Help guide, train and work worth scientists of varying levels of camping and outdoor experience on safe field practices and USAP procedures

• Assist with daily camp chores to maintain a safe, healthy and hygienic environment including: waste sorting and management according to environmental standards, haul or melt snow for water, cook meals, dish washing and galley duties, charge communications devices, etc.

• May operate snow machines, ATV’s, generators and other small machinery

• Assist with routine maintenance of camp equipment Familiarity and ability to perform daily communications check-ins via a variety of devices/methods: Iridium, HF radio, VFH radio, Starlink

• Assist with cargo movements including packaging, labeling, weighing, and palletizing, as well as lifting, hauling and carrying and securing. Assist with moving and carrying scientific samples as needed.

• Maintain a positive work environment in order to achieve a safe scientific expedition.

What Sets You Apart:

• High School diploma or GED

• Two years of combined experience is required in any of the following areas: expedition outfitting in polar climates or high altitude winter settings, National Park service positions, outdoor education, and/or guiding services.

• Experience working on or from ships, sea kayaking, sailing or other maritime

• Basic navigational skills and able to operate a GPS

• Wilderness First Responder Certification

You May Also Have:

• Bachelors degree in science: geology, marine, biology, ecology.

• Experience with operating and maintenance of engines: ATV and snow machines, generators

• Commercial sewing skills Backpacking, climbing and mountaineering particularly in high latitude or polar climates

• Vessel experience: sailing, small boats, commercial, or research

• Spanish language skills or proficiency

• Experience with Outward Bound, NOLS or another outdoor leadership school W-EMT or equivalent

Original Posting:May 2, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $50,700.00 - $91,650.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.