Australian Antarctic Division launches recruitment drive, more than 270 jobs on offer

The opportunity to live and work in Antarctica could be the “adventure of a lifetime” for some, with more than 270 roles needing to be filled for the 2025-26 season. How much you could earn:

Dean Ahern, left, was the manager at the Wilkins Aerodrome in Antarctica over winter. He says the experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity and encourages others to seek work opportunities on the icy continent as the Australian Antarctic Division launches a new recruitment campaign for the 2025-26 season. Picture: Supplied

The Australian Antarctic Division has launched a massive recruitment drive as it seeks to renew its ranks on the frozen continent next year, looking for electricians, mechanics, carpenters, chefs, and a range of other diverse tradespeople and professionals to man the research stations.

Launched today, the recruitment process will involve more than 270 new recruits being selected to live and work in Antarctica in the 2025-26 season, with contracts on offer ranging from six months to more than 15 months.

Salaries range between about $75,000 and $100,000, with up to $65,000 of additional pay on the table in the form of remote location allowances and other benefits.

Mawson research station. Picture: Michael Brill/Australian Antarctic Division (AAD)

Those who are chosen to fill the roles will help maintain Australia’s scientific research stations, Mawson, Casey, and Davis, as well as one on the sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island.

Dean Ahern, of Deloraine, who was the manager of the Wilkins Aerodrome over the winter and has spent a total of nine summers and two winters in Antarctica, said working on the icy continent was a “life-changing experience”.

He encouraged anyone considering applying for a role to embrace the opportunity with open arms.

Dean Ahern, centre, was the manager at the Wilkins Aerodrome in Antarctica over winter. He says the experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity and encourages others to seek work opportunities on the icy continent as the Australian Antarctic Division launches a new recruitment campaign for the 2025-26 season. Picture: Supplied

“You will meet fantastic people, see some amazing sights, be challenged in many different areas and leave with lifelong friends and great memories,” he said.

Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) director of expeditioner services Gina Woodward said while working in Antarctica wasn’t for everyone, it was the “adventure of a lifetime” for many people.

“We’re after people who are both technically at the top of their field, but also are well suited to small community and remote living,” she said.

“The work is hard, and it’s a massive sacrifice being so far from family and friends, but the rewards are a lifetime of stories, friendships and memories.”

ANTARCTIC JOBS – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

– More than 270 jobs on offer in 38 positions for the 2025-26 Antarctic season

– Salaries between about $75,000 and $100,000, plus allowances of up to $65,000

– Contracts ranging from 6-15 months