Ground Penetrating Radar Specialist; Antarctica)

Position: 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.*
* ** Primary Responsibilities*
* + 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.

** Required Education and Qualifications*
* + 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.

** Preferred Qualifications*
* + 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.

** Physical and Other Requirements*
* + Willingness and ability to deploy to Antarctica for extended periods.

+ Successful completion of NSF-required medical and dental examinations.

+ Successful completion of employer-required drug screening and background check.

+ Successful completion of the NSF Federal Background Check.

+ Ability to perform physically demanding work, including heavy lifting, climbing, crawling, and working outdoors in extreme cold.

+ Participate in community responsibilities, including housekeeping ("house-mouse"), station cleanup ("daisy-picking"), recycling efforts, and safety initiatives.

+ Valid U.S. driver's license.

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