As a Senior Communications Technical Officer (SCTO), you will carry out routine and complex telecommunications maintenance. You will also make repairs and operate communications equipment. You may install or assist with the installation of complex telecommunications systems.

SCTOs are employed in winter jobs at Casey, Davis, Mawson and Macquarie Island. Summer or shorter winter jobs may become available.

Ship based IT and communication support positions may be drawn from successful SCTO applicants.

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 $94,838 per annum.
• Base salary + additional allowances when in Antarctica starts from $160,179 per annum.
• 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.

Eligibility

A security clearance is required for this role and applications will only be considered from Australian citizens

To apply for this role you must have the skills and licences listed below:

Qualifications/licences (provide copies in your application):

• An Open Cabling Licence with optical, coax and structured (O, C & S) endorsements.
• Cert III in Electronics and Communications (UEE30920) or comparable qualification.
• A Certificate of Competency in Perform Inspection (MEM15004B or PUAEQU001).
• This position requires a Baseline Vetting security clearance. You will be required to obtain and maintain a clearance at this level.
• A current, unrestricted “C” class (manual) Australian driver’s licence.
• Valid passport when travelling to the Antarctic or sub-antarctic. 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.
• A current statement of attainment in the following units of first aid, or the ability to attain prior to commencement:
  • 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

Skills and experience (at least one of the following within the last 5 years):

• Satellite communications systems and equipment with a strong understanding and practical maintenance experience, including BUC/LNB style, or other microwave communications systems.
• Analogue radio systems with a strong understanding and practical maintenance including installation and repair of HF mobile and fixed base. VHF Repeaters/Base stations, Mobile radios and portables. Testing and repair of antennas and associated cabling/feeder systems and familiarity of masts and associated hardware.

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 Hays at antarctica@hays.com.au or 03 8602 9896.