Ground Penetrating Radar Specialist (Antarctica)

Description

The United States Antarctic Program (USAP) has an opening for a Ground Penetrating Radar Specialist supporting National Science Foundation-funded field science in the Antarctic Interior.

This is a physically demanding contractual position supporting field operations in remote Antarctic locations. Candidates must have demonstrated experience assessing glaciological features for safe travel using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) in polar environments, be able to lift up to 35 pounds, and successfully pass a national security background check.

*** This is for an alternate position, Deployment to Antarctica is required in this role. Deployment length is expected to be for 5 months, starting in October 2026. The candidate in the position must complete the physical and dental examinations required by the 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 typically can take 2-4 months to complete.

• Operate Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) systems mounted on sleds, snowmobiles, or tractors to detect crevasses and other subsurface hazards.
• Provide real-time interpretation of GPR data to support safe travel routes.
• Process raw GPR data using software such as GSSI RADAN to produce actionable maps and reports.
• Interpret data to identify hazards and support safe vehicle operations.
• Perform daily maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of GPR equipment, computers, and associated electronics.
• Work outdoors in extreme cold environments for extended periods, including camping in remote locations.
• Interact professionally with the National Science Foundation, subcontractors, military personnel, government agencies, and Antarctica New Zealand.
• Operate snowmobiles, tracked snow vehicles, fleet trucks, and other assigned equipment.
• Work independently with minimal supervision and provide leadership when required.
• Frequently lift, push, and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Maintain a safe work environment and ensure safety remains the highest workplace priority.
• Utilize safe travel techniques in crevassed terrain, including roped travel and GPR-assisted navigation.
• Ensure cargo is returned from the field, cleaned, and delivered to the appropriate work centers before redeployment.
• Prepare written reports following Field Safety assignments.
• Perform equipment operation and fueling duties as required.
• Maintain field sites and equipment for Antarctic conditions.
• Maintain organized camps, follow environmental protocols, and manage waste retrograde activities.
• Occasionally work at high altitudes.
• Resolve field challenges, including personnel and resource limitations, as needed.
• Support camp operations, including cooking, food planning, galley tasks, resupply, and general camp/traverse duties.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in Geophysics, Geology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience operating GPR systems in glaciated environments.
• Two to four field seasons operating GPR equipment in glaciated environments.
• Strong proficiency with GPR data processing and interpretation software.
• Experience using ice-penetrating radar as a life safety mitigation tool.
• Proficiency with GPR software such as GSSI RADAN, EKKO Project, or similar applications.
• Previous experience working in polar or other remote field environments.
• Familiarity with GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Experience interpreting satellite imagery and other georeferenced datasets.
• Ability to work independently, as a team member, or in a leadership role with minimal supervision.

• Experience integrating GPS/GNSS data.
• Current CPR certification.
• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification.
• Advanced GIS experience working with multiple geospatial data formats.
• Snowmobile operating experience.
• Heavy or tracked vehicle operating experience.
• Experience processing satellite imagery and georeferenced datasets.

• Willingness and ability to deploy to Antarctica for extended periods.
• Successful completion of…