We conduct these operations at Australia’s three Antarctic continental stations, sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island and other remote Southern Ocean locations.

The Watercraft Operators are responsible for the safe execution of waterborne activities in accordance with the AAD’s authorised Safety Management System and Standard Operating Procedures. Common evolutions include the ship to shore transfer of expeditioners, supporting scientific research, cargo transfer operations, and supporting the establishment and monitoring of ship-to-shore fuel transfer operations.

Suitable candidates may then be selected from the group of successful Watercraft Operators to be a Watercraft Coordinator. The Watercraft Coordinator works with the Voyage Leader and Deputy Voyage Leader to ensure waterborne operations are achieved in a safe, compliant, and efficient manner.

Watercraft Operators are generally employed through the summer voyage season. However, at times winter season positions may be available to support specific project outcomes. Contracts range from 5 to 12 weeks and are dependent on the voyage duration (indicative, may vary due to operational and environmental considerations).

Please note that this role does not involve the operation of larger vessels and applicants must have extensive, current hands-on experience in operating small watercraft under 15 m in length in a range of operational conditions.

The Australian Antarctic Program’s (AAP) vision is to ensure Antarctica is valued, protected and understood. Working with the AAP provides a unique opportunity to experience Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, while supporting world-leading science.

The AAP aims to support expeditioner growth, professionally and personally, with a focus on wellbeing. We strive to employ versatile, proactive and community minded people. Expeditioners will need to contribute to a small team and be resilient as they face the challenges of living in an isolated environment.

For more detailed information about the requirements of the role and the selection process, please see the job description document and link to more information on the application process below.

Employment conditions

• The annual base salary when in Australia starts from $89,311 per annum for Watercraft Operators and $93,857 per annum for Watercraft Coordinators
• Base salary + additional allowances when on voyage to and from Antarctica starts from $157,265 per annum for Watercraft Operators and $161,811 per annum for Watercraft Coordinators.
• A generous employer superannuation contribution of up to 15.4% will be paid in addition to salary and allowances.
• You will accrue recreation leave at the equivalent of 20 days per annum pro rata. Please note that recreation leave is not available in Antarctica but will be paid out on return to Australia.

What we are looking for

Essential

To apply for this role, you must have experience within the last 5 years, preferably within the last 2 years, in the skills and licences listed below:

Qualifications/licences

Provide copy with your application:

• Coxswain 1 certificate – current
• Driver’s licence – current, unrestricted “C” class (manual) Australian driver’s licence
• Citizenship – in accordance with the PS Act 1999, Australian Public Service employees are required to be Australian citizens. Persons who are not Australian citizens will generally only be considered where there are no suitable Australian applicants, with next considerations being Australian residents with work rights and New Zealand citizens.

Obtain prior to job commencement:

• Valid Passport – The expiry date of the passport (and any relevant visa) must be at least 6 months beyond the planned end date of your intended stay in the Antarctic or sub-Antarctic.
• Provide First Aid (HLTAID0011) must be valid for at least 18 months beyond the date of AAD commencement.
• Provide CPR (HLTAID009) must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of AAD commencement

Knowledge and experience

• Operating watercraft (under 15 m in length) in either hazardous conditions or remote locations
• Working to Standard Operating Procedures, Job Hazard Analyses and organisational policies. Candidates must be able to demonstrate a strong safety culture and willingness to comply with safety and environmental policies and procedures
• Writing and presenting concise operational reports and briefing groups on operational requirements
• Broad general experience

Highly Desirable

These are not essential to the role however, to be suitable you will need to have at least some of these. We encourage you to apply even if you do not fit 100% of the requirements.

Qualifications and licences

Provide copies in your application:

• Dogging Licence
• Marine Engine Driver (MED)

Desirable

Qualifications and licences

Provide copies in your application:

• Rigging
• Diesel Mechanic
• Other relevant training qualifications

Knowledge and experience

Within the last 2 years:

• Conducting dogging and/or rigging activities.
• Operating watercraft (under 15 m in length) in support of cargo transfer and ship-to-shore refuelling operations
• On water loading and unloading cargo transfer operations involving craning or similar apparatus.

Other requirements

As a proactive and positive member of the community you will:

• Maintain a personal and practical commitment to AAD policies and standard operating procedures (including work, health and safety and environmental policies). Training and guidance in regard to all responsibilities relevant to your position will be provided.
• Be rostered to perform duties to support the community life of the expedition, such as general kitchen duties, garbage clearance, general cleaning duties, and assisting other expedition members with official programs, to ensure an equitable contribution.
• Work in areas outside of your primary role, for example, aiding other areas or science projects, or participating in general labouring tasks such as clearing snow or handling cargo.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At the AAD, we value diversity in all its forms – background, experience, and perspective. We recognise the challenges that come with our work and are committed to fostering an inclusive culture for all. We encourage applications from everyone, especially people from under-represented groups like Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, gender-diverse people, LGBTQIA+ communities, and those of different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Personal qualities

During the recruitment selection process the AAD assesses individual personal qualities expeditioners need to successfully live and work in an isolated Antarctic/sub-Antarctic community. 

Covid-19

Expeditioners must comply with the AAD’s Infectious Respiratory Disease Management Plan, including the requirement to have had a COVID-19 vaccination or a medically documented COVID-19 infection, within 12 months of deployment. More information is available.

Contact

For general enquiries, please email the Hays Expeditioner Recruitment Team at antarctica@hays.com.au.

For job specific (technical or trade related) enquiries, or to discuss the role in more detail, please contact Maritime Capabilities Team at maritime.capabilities@aad.gov.au.