South Pole Research Associate (I)

Leidos

1d•$69,550 - $125,725•Onsite

About The Position

The Leidos Corporation is seeking a Research Scientist (I) 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 for this position. This role is expected to deploy for approximately 13 months, from mid-October 2026 through mid-November 2027. Pre-deployment training begins in late September, with deployment from the Denver area once training is complete. The individual in the position must successfully complete the physical, dental and psychological examinations as required by the NSF for deploying to Antarctica. Failure to meet these requirements will result in withdrawal of employment offer or other employment action. 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, click here.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Electrical, Aeronautical, or other Engineering, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or Physics.
Two years’ experience in laboratory or observatory technical work, which should include operational experience utilizing experimental, physical, optical, or atmospheric science equipment.
General electronic troubleshooting experience, with a minimum of two years of experience in the use of bench testing equipment.
Experience working with diverse groups of people in high stress situations.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Must be organized, able to multi-task, and able to work without direct supervision.
Due to contract requirements, US Citizenship is required.
Must obtain a Public Trust security clearance prior to start date.

Nice To Haves

Soldering experience a plus.
Experience handling cryogens and compressed gases.
Basic understanding of RF and power equipment (RF attenuators, filters, LNAs, switches, switching power supplies).
Experience with network interfaces helpful.
Familiarity with Macintosh and Linux/Unix platforms, as well as legacy versions of Windows.
Familiarity with networking topics and file transfer tools.
Successful conflict resolution experience or training.

Responsibilities

Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair a variety of equipment used in the long-term monitoring of physical phenomena including (but not limited to): data collection equipment, magnetometers, spectrophotometers, CCD cameras, and other radio and optical equipment.
Use digital and analog electronic equipment to diagnose and repair instruments and computer hardware failures.
Support researchers by ensuring timely problem resolution, minimizing data collection interruptions, and providing notifications of outages, issues, and maintenance schedules.
Maintain appropriate project log books, documents and email records.
Maintain and operate liquid nitrogen plant, cryogenic dewars, and compressed gas cylinders.
Provide manual labor as needed, including excavating buried experiments and maintaining access to surface installations.
Maintain accurate inventory of spare parts for equipment and instruments.
Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment, and prepare resupply lists.
Participate in community duties, which may include washing dishes and cleaning common areas.
Other duties as required.
Assist the station meteorologist with weather observations and balloon launches several times a day. This will involve shift work. Specialized training will be provided.
All South Pole winter crew members will be assigned to an Emergency Response Team (ERT) such as the Fire Brigade or First Aid team. Specialized training will be provided.