Excavator Operator – ANTARCTICA

About the Company Tradestaff Global is a leading recruitment agency specializing in providing skilled professionals to the construction industry. We are committed to connecting talented individuals with exciting opportunities around the world. About the Role We are currently seeking expressions of interest from licensed and experienced Excavator Operators for a unique opportunity to work at McMurdo Station in Antarctica during the summer season of 2025/26. Deployments are expected to take place from approximately October 2025 to March 2026. These roles require a strong work ethic and a willingness to embrace the challenges of working in one of the most remote and stunning environments on the planet. What's on Offer? We provide flights from any major New Zealand airport, along with food, shared accommodation, and travel insurance. The hourly rate for these positions is $73.64, with contracts paid fortnightly in NZD for a total of 54 hours per week. All necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) will also be supplied. This is a demanding role, but in return, you will receive a competitive salary, the opportunity to save while working abroad, invaluable experience, and the chance to forge lasting friendships. If you have ever dreamed of such an adventure, this could be the perfect job for you. What’s the Job? Working in construction in Antarctica offers a unique experience that differs significantly from other environments. We are looking for hard-working team players who are willing to assist with a variety of tasks on-site, including operating 30–50T excavators on a large commercial build in a high-risk environment. You should be comfortable leaving the cab to help with general site work. Experience operating dozers, loaders, or rollers would be a valuable asset for this position. Requirements To be considered for this role, you must hold a WTR (Wheels, Tracks, and Rollers) endorsement and a Class 2 License. Proven experience operating large excavators in civil, roading, or construction is essential. Please provide an up-to-date CV that details your experience with machine sizes, brands, operating time, and examples of projects you have worked on. What’s the Catch? Due to travel restrictions, only New Zealand and US citizens with New Zealand or US passports who are currently and permanently residing and working in New Zealand are eligible to apply. Vaccinations for Flu, Tdap, and MMR are required. Candidates should be aware that these positions are not fly-in fly-out (FIFO); you will be on-site for an extended period, working long hours, six days a week. Start dates are approximate and contingent upon passing medical and dental checks, obtaining security clearance, meeting your notice period, and the availability of ice flights. Additionally, you must pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test and have a clean criminal record. The application process is thorough, requiring patience as you navigate through the steps. You will need to travel to Tauranga for medical and dental exams, and we will cover the costs of testing and flights for those traveling from outside the Bay of Plenty. What Now? To apply, please submit your application online along with an up-to-date CV that highlights your commercial construction skills and experience. If your initial application is successful, we will reach out to you with further information regarding the interview and verification process. Candidates should be IT literate, attentive to detail, able to follow instructions, and capable of managing complex paperwork. What Are You Waiting For? Adventure awaits! Apply online now to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Please note that we can only accept online applications, and you will receive an automatic acknowledgment upon successful submission. At Tradestaff Global, we offer a diverse range of roles across the construction industry, including positions for carpenters, machine operators, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, duct installers, pipefitters, welders, and many more. Explore our current opportunities at our website.