The Australian Antarctic Program launched its annual recruitment drive on October 1, offering more than 200 contracts for people to live and work at research stations in Antarctica. Applications for the 2027-28 season close on October 31, 2026.
Successful candidates will spend between six months and over a year at stations including Casey, Davis, and Mawson. These are among the most remote work environments on the planet. Workers will support scientific research, station operations, and logistics across the continent.
The program covers a wide range of roles. Available positions include electricians, carpenters, mechanics, plumbers, chefs, telecommunications officers, logistics coordinators, medical practitioners, aviation support staff, field training officers, and leadership roles. Most positions do not require prior Antarctic experience. However, applicants must demonstrate relevant qualifications and the ability to live in an isolated community for extended periods.
Base salaries for entry-level and trade roles start between AUD 79,000 and AUD 90,000 (roughly Rs 9.1 million to Rs 10.4 million). When Antarctic allowances for remote work and overtime are factored in, total packages frequently exceed AUD 120,000. Senior and leadership positions can reach AUD 150,000 or more. In addition, the program covers accommodation, meals, and all other living costs while workers are on station.
The program primarily requires Australian citizenship under the Public Service Act 1999. However, the Australian Antarctic Division can make exceptions for positions that prove difficult to fill. In those cases, Australian residents with work rights receive next consideration, followed by New Zealand citizens. This means Pakistani professionals already holding Australian work visas or permanent residency can apply. Those without existing work rights would need to secure an eligible Australian visa first. Applicants with questions about eligibility can contact the recruitment team at 1800 030 755 or visit jobs.antarctica.gov.au.
Contract lengths vary by role. Most run between six and 12 months, while some voyage-based positions last fewer than four months. The Australian Antarctic Division runs a multi-stage selection process that includes applications, interviews, medical checks, and psychological assessments. As a result, the full hiring process can take up to nine months from application to deployment.
Applications are open now through the Australian Antarctic Division’s jobs portal at jobs.antarctica.gov.au.
