Jobs

South Africa maintains bases at Antarctica as well as on Marion and Gough Islands, managed and administered by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT).

At the Antarctic base, SANAE IV, the field of research is varied. there are programmes, which provide for upper air research (e.g. cosmic rays) and others again, which cover the earth sciences (e.g. geology). At Gough Island meteorological observations are made and Marion Island is a meteorological station with research programmes being undertaken in the fields of oceanography, biology and geology.

Relief voyages to replenish supplies and to exchange personnel take place annually. These voyages are undertaken by the DEAT research and supply ship, the mv SA Agulhas.

Annual departure times to the various bases are usually as follows:

Each expedition is made up of the following personnel:

*All scientists are recruited by participating research institutions.

Appointments are of a temporary nature and in the case of logistic support personnel, e.g. Radio Technicians, the duration is about 15 to 18 months. In scientific posts the periods of appointment vary, and are determined by the training required in a specific instance as well as the time required for the writing up of results upon return from the expedition. Normally, such appointments do not exceed a period of three years. The time spent on one of the Islands or in the Antarctic itself is usually between 12 to 14 months.

Should more than one applicant be found successful for an advertised post, a position at one of the other bases will be offered to candidates who are suitable and interested.

A Team Leader for SANAE, Gough and Marion Islands is selected from the expedition team and performs the duties he/she is qualified for, as well as the required leadership duties.
A thorough knowledge of administration and staff control is essential. Knowledge of scientific research is a recommendation. An appropriate B-degree is essential.

Individual Training

Team Training

General benefits

Applications

Public Servants must submit their applications via their respective Departments/Administration. Selected candidates will be required to undergo personal interviews and, if successful, proceed for medical examinations. A day is required for these purposes. Applicants residing outside the immediate vicinity of Pretoria will be reimbursed for their travel costs. Applicants who choose to travel by road or by air will be refunded the cost of the most economic transport (bus or first class train ticket) only.

forms:     Z83 Goverment application
              Biographical questionnaire

Completed application forms can be forwarded to:

Medical Doctor

Applicants must be registered as general practitioners with the SA Medical and Dental council.

Medical Orderly

Applicants must either be registered with the SA Nursing Council or must be/have been operational medical orderlies in the Permanent Force of the SANDF. Extensive experience in the handling of casualties will be a strong recommendation.

Radio/Electronic Technicians

National Diploma for Technicians or equivalent. Experience in HF and Computer Communication, network (LAN/WAN) will be a recommendation.

Electrical/Electronic or Mechanical Engineer

A four-year degree as prescribed in the Engineering Profession of South Africa (Act 114 of 1990) with at least two years practical experience.

Industrial Technician (Electronic/Electric/Mechanical)

National Diploma (T or N stream) or registration as an Engineering Technician with at least two years experience.

Biologist

Field Assistant

Graduates in the natural sciences or persons who are studying in this field, will receive preference.

Geologist