Description
About the Company
Tradestaff Global is currently seeking expressions of interest from licensed and experienced Excavator Operators to join us at McMurdo Station in Antarctica for the Summer 2025/26 season. This unique opportunity offers the chance to work in one of the most remote and stunning locations in the world.
About the Role
The deployment period is expected to run from approximately October 2025 to March 2026. These positions are not for the faint-hearted, as you will be residing in an isolated environment for several months.
We provide flights from any major New Zealand airport, along with food, shared accommodation, and travel insurance. The compensation for this role is $73.64 per hour, contracted on a basis of 54 hours per week and paid fortnightly in New Zealand dollars. All personal protective equipment will be supplied.
While the work is challenging, it offers a competitive salary, the opportunity to save money, valuable experience, and the chance to forge lasting friendships. If you've always wanted to experience working in Antarctica, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Requirements
The role involves construction work in Antarctica, which requires dedicated team players who are willing to assist with various tasks on-site. You will be operating 30–50T excavators on a significant commercial project in a high-risk environment. It is essential to be comfortable stepping out of the cab to contribute to general site work. Experience operating dozers, loaders, or rollers will be advantageous.
To be considered for this position, you must:
- Hold a WTR (Wheeled Tractor/Loader) endorsement and a Class 2 Licence.
- Have proven experience operating large excavators in civil, roading, or construction projects.
- Provide an up-to-date CV detailing machine sizes, brands, operational time, and examples of projects you have worked on.
Please note that due to travel restrictions, we can only accept applications from New Zealand and US citizens who possess New Zealand or US passports and are currently and permanently residing and working in New Zealand.
Additional requirements include:
- Willingness to receive vaccinations for Flu, Tdap, and MMR.
- Understanding that these roles are not ‘fly in, fly out’ (FIFO); you will be on-site for an extended period.
- Availability to work long hours, six days a week.
- Flexibility regarding start dates, which are contingent upon passing medical and dental checks, obtaining security clearance, your notice period, and flight availability to Antarctica.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
- A clean criminal record.
- Patience during the lengthy application process, which involves several steps.
Candidates should be prepared to travel to Tauranga for medical and dental examinations. We will cover the costs of testing and flights for those traveling from outside the Bay of Plenty.
Benefits
To apply, please submit your application online along with an up-to-date CV that highlights your commercial construction experience and the types of projects you have completed. If your application is successful, we will reach out to provide additional information about the interview and screening process.
Candidates must be proficient in IT, possess strong attention to detail, follow instructions carefully, and manage complex paperwork effectively.
What are you waiting for? Adventure awaits!
We encourage you to apply online now for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Applications will only be accepted through our online portal, and you will receive an automatic acknowledgment upon successful submission of your application.
To Apply
If this role is of interest, please Apply Now and submit your updated CV by following the link.
Please note: To be considered for this position, you must be eligible to work in New Zealand, with valid work rights.
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