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Summer Antarctica Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This is a seasonal position which deploys to McMurdo Station, Antarctica for the austral winter ... Work with off-site staff to prepare for upcoming summer science projects. * Act as science liaison ...

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Summer Antarctica information

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$7

$15

$22

How much do summer antarctica jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer antarctica in the United States is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Summer Antarctica vs Summer Arctic?

AspectSummer AntarcticaSummer Arctic
Work EnvironmentCold, icy, remote continent with research stationsCold, icy, remote region with research stations and indigenous communities
Required CredentialsScience or environmental degrees, research experience, safety trainingSimilar credentials: science degrees, environmental expertise, safety certifications
Industry UsagePrimarily scientific research, environmental monitoringScientific research, climate studies, indigenous community support

Summer Antarctica and Summer Arctic both involve scientific research in cold, remote environments, requiring similar credentials and safety training. The main difference lies in their locations and ecosystems, with Antarctica being a continent surrounded by ocean and the Arctic an ocean basin surrounded by land. Both regions are vital for climate studies and environmental monitoring, but their unique environments influence the specific research activities conducted.

What are summer Antarctica jobs?

Summer Antarctica jobs refer to temporary positions available at research stations on the Antarctic continent during the austral summer, typically between October and February. These jobs support scientific research and the operation of the stations, including roles in logistics, maintenance, food services, administration, and scientific research assistance. Positions are open to people with a wide range of skills and backgrounds, but most require strong physical fitness and the ability to live and work in remote, harsh environments. Applicants often go through a rigorous selection process and must meet specific medical and security requirements. Working in Antarctica during the summer is a unique experience that offers personal and professional growth, as well as the opportunity to contribute to important scientific research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Antarctic field researcher during the summer season, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Antarctic Field Researcher during the summer, you generally need a background in environmental science, biology, geology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS systems, cold-weather gear, and safety certifications like first aid are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, resilience, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in the extreme and isolated Antarctic environment. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, efficient research operations and successful collaboration under challenging conditions.

What are some unique challenges faced by those working in summer Antarctica research positions, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Working in a Summer Antarctica research role presents unique challenges such as extreme weather, isolation, and limited access to resources. Applicants must be prepared for rapidly changing conditions and the need to adapt to a close-knit, supportive team environment. It's essential to be proactive in maintaining both physical and mental well-being, participate in pre-departure training, and embrace a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Building resilience and flexibility will help you thrive in this extraordinary workplace.
More about Summer Antarctica jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Antarctica jobs? Cities with the most Summer Antarctica job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Antarctica jobs? The most popular types of Antarctica jobs are:
What states have the most Summer Antarctica jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Antarctica jobs include:
Infographic showing various Summer Antarctica job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 32% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,041 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Winter Lab Assistant- Antarctica

Leidos

Remote

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 488 rated business services


Job description

Leidos is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to assist with all aspects of laboratory facility management and logistical or technical support for science teams deployed to Antarctica. This is a seasonal position which deploys to McMurdo Station, Antarctica for the austral winter season, February - October (approximately 9 months). The candidate in the position must complete the physical and dental examinations required by the National Science Foundation (NSF) for deploying to Antarctica.
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.
Don't miss this opportunity to join a dynamic team and make a difference. Apply now!
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:
  • Serve as on-site Point of Contact for the Crary Science and Engineering Center (aka Crary Lab) during winter season.
  • Work with off-site staff to prepare for upcoming summer science projects.
  • Act as science liaison, including coordinating with other departments for facility inspections, tours, and completion of work orders/tasking.
  • Ensure laboratory users maintain safe laboratory practices as outlined in the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
  • Orient users to the facility by informing users of all standard safety expectations, highlighting emergency response procedures, presenting primary hazards of the facility, and conducting routine laboratory inspections.
  • Assist in the planning, allocation, and adaptation of laboratory resources and equipment for current or upcoming science teams.
  • Coordinate intra- and intercontinental science sample movements with scientists and work centers.
  • Prepare weekly and end-of-season status reports. Create and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Conduct cleaning, organization, and preparation of laboratories, offices, aquarium facilities, loading docks, staging spaces, cold storage rooms, conference rooms, and other common-use areas within the facility.
  • Monitor and maintain cold storage rooms, chemical storage rooms, and all shared-use areas within the facility.
  • Manage inventory and tracking of samples, equipment, or other resources.
  • Brief various agencies and ASC departments on current research; providing tours of laboratory facilities.
  • Monitor the Duty Pager, requiring being on-call 24/7 for alarms throughout the duration of the winter season.
  • Provide input on suggested improvements to laboratory spaces and associated systems to enhance usage of research facilities.
  • Shovel and otherwise maintain entrances/exits to the facility for safe and proper egress.
  • Support the Hazardous Materials Specialist with monitoring the receipt, inventory, proper use, and disposal of hazardous laboratory chemicals.
  • Assist with segregation and packaging of laboratory solid wastes for proper disposal, reuse, and/or recycling.
  • Monitor use of radioisotopes and radiation producing equipment by National Science Foundation (NSF) Office of Polar Programs' (OPP) approved groups. Provide cryogen support where required.
  • Support the Instrument Technician by testing, maintaining, and calibrating equipment and instrumentation as requested.

What Sets You Apart:
  • Bachelor's degree in a science field, and 2 - 4 years of prior relevant experience. Additional years of experience will be considered in lieu of degree.
  • Experience in a research environment providing direct support to science events/projects required.
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal communication, and public speaking skills.
  • Self-motived with strong problem-solving skills. Executes projects and requests without supervision.
  • Proficiency in MS Office applications.

You May Also Have:
  • Remote field work and/or polar experience preferred.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
August 7, 2026
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 $69,550.00 - $125,725.00
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.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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