Palmer Research Associate; Alternate Security Clearance

Position: Palmer Research Associate (Alternate) with Security Clearance
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- Description This is an alternate position, and will only be officially hired should the already identified primary candidate be deemed unfit to deploy or withdraw from consideration. Leidos is in search of an experience Research Associate to join the Antarctic team at Palmer Station. In accordance with overall technical direction, guidance, and protocols provided by grantees, subcontractors, and the National Science Foundation, the Research Scientist position supports a variety of scientific research projects in the physical and astrophysical sciences at remote Antarctic field stations, works with advanced scientific instrumentation, assists in the collection of data, and carries out research protocols for NSF grantees.

*** Deployment to Antarctica is required in this role. Deployment length is expected to be for 6 months, starting in November of 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 could take up to 4 months. If this sounds like an environment where you can thrive, keep reading! 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,  . Primary

Responsibilities Include:

* Maintains, trouble shoots, and repairs a variety of equipment used in the long-term monitoring of physical phenomena including (but not limited to) UV spectroradiometers, GPS receivers, VLF radio receivers, neutron and radio-nuclide detectors, seismometers, magnetometers, photometers, interferometers, air sampling units, and other instruments.
* Collects, archives, and transmits data and status reports to project researchers.
* Collects and prepares samples for shipment, maintains inventory of flasks and works with logistics department to ensure adequate flask inventory for the next season.
* Regularly employs ingenuity and creativity to develop new technical solutions and systems in order to achieve functional objectives.
* Uses digital and analog electronic equipment to diagnose and repair instruments and computer hardware failures.
* Supports Grantees by ensuring timely problem resolution, minimizing data collection interruptions, and notifying grantees of outages, issues, and maintenance schedules.
* Maintains appropriate project logbooks, documents and email records. Updates standard operating procedures.
* Administers, operates, and maintains computer-based data acquisition systems. Coordinates with the IT department on computer configurations and networking topology issues such as firewall access and IP addresses.
* Receives and inventories capital equipment, instruments, materials, and supplies. Maintains accurate inventory of spare parts for equipment and instruments, and prepares resupply lists.
* Assists with life-cycle management and informs grantees or staff on replacement timelines.
* Occasionally conducts briefings on research and tours of facilities for distinguished…