Are You Cut Out for Living and Working in Antarctica?
Both the UK and US research facilities in Antarctica are seeking their next round of adventurers to go south. You don’t need a scientific background—opportunities span a wide range, from carpenters to electricians, chefs, and even hairdressers. But before you pack your thermal gear, ask yourself: can you handle the cold and isolation?
Meet Dan McKenzie: A True Antarctic Adventurer
At 38, Dan McKenzie’s journey from Wigan, England, to the Halley VI Research Station—one of five British Antarctic Survey (BAS) facilities—has been remarkable. A former marine engineer, McKenzie says, “I’ve always been adventurous and interested in finding the most wild places.” Since embarking on his first Antarctic contract in 2019, he has risen to station leader.
– Current Role: Station Leader at Halley VI
– Conditions: Average temperatures hover around -20°C, with extremes reaching as low as -40°C.
Imagine working on a bright Antarctic summer day with a view that stretches across endless white ice and a vivid blue sky. McKenzie describes summer temperatures, saying, “That temperature is pretty nice here, really; minus five is as warm as it gets.”
Responsibilities and Challenges
– Team Management: Leading a 40-member team during the summer season (November to February).
– Roles: Monitoring wildlife, atmospheric data, and the Brunt Ice Shelf, as well as addressing the emotional well-being of team members.
– Skills Required: In addition to technical expertise, the role demands conflict resolution and emotional support capabilities.
“People come into your office and say they’re not having a very good day,” McKenzie explains. “You have to support them, which adds variety to the role.”
Life at the Research Station
McKenzie is among approximately 120 BAS employees in Antarctica for the summer, with some staying through the winter months. He notes, “When the winter comes, you feel this incredible sense of freedom as most people leave.” Here’s what to expect:
– Living Arrangements: Shared dormitories with limited privacy, resembling a university experience.
– Work Schedule: A seven-day shift rota, with responsibilities beyond regular work tasks.
The Adventure Awaits—But Prepare for the Realities
BAS welcomes up to 150 new recruits each year, focusing heavily on operational roles that keep the research stations running. Positions available include electricians and chefs, with salaries starting at £31,244 per annum. The job package includes travel, accommodation, meals, and gear suitable for extreme conditions.
Consider These Before Applying:
– Fresh food is scarce.
– Alcohol supplies are limited.
– You’ll be sharing living spaces with colleagues.
Social Dynamics and Psychological Challenges
Dr. Duncan Precious, a clinical psychologist with armed forces experience, emphasizes the complexities of social dynamics in such confined quarters. When relationships fray, issues can spiral quickly. Yet, he notes that those drawn to living and working in Antarctica often thrive on good stress,” similar to military environments.
Mariella Giancola, BAS’s head of HR, warns prospective recruits about the challenges of close living conditions. “Many think they can handle living with others but find it overwhelming when personal space is non-existent,” she says.
The Rewards of the Experience
Despite the potential challenges, McKenzie insists the rewards are unparalleled. “When I first got down here, sharing a room was tough, and the weather was grim,” he confesses. “But seeing whales, seals, and even an emperor penguin colony—it’s like being in a David Attenborough documentary.”
In conclusion, if you’re considering a life filled with unique challenges and remarkable rewards, living and working in Antarctica could be your calling. It requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace a lifestyle unlike any other. Are you cut out for it?