Plant Operator - Davis Station, Antarctica

Take your skills to Antarctica and experience one of the world's most remote and remarkable environments. Join the Australian Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal (AIR) Alliance for the 2027/28 summer season at Davis Station. Put your plant operating skills to work supporting critical infrastructure renewal projects while experiencing one of the world's most remote locations. Plant Operator – Davis Station, Antarctica Take your trade to Antarctica and experience one of the world's most remote and remarkable environments. The Australian Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal (AIR) Alliance is seeking experienced Plant Operators to support the delivery of critical infrastructure renewal works at Davis Station, Antarctica, for the 2027/28 summer season. Working alongside other skilled tradespeople, you will contribute to the renewal of essential station infrastructure through a range of plant and construction activities. Successful applicants will need strong plant operating skills, a commitment to safety, and the adaptability to live and work within a close-knit Antarctic station community. About the Role As a Plant Operator with AIR Alliance, you will contribute to the delivery of infrastructure renewal works at Davis Station, applying your plant operating skills and experience across a range of construction activities. The role requires flexibility and adaptability to meet changing project requirements, including undertaking duties beyond plant operation. Employment and Deployment Details Anticipated commencement: September 2027. Pre-departure training: Approximately 4–6 weeks prior to deployment to Antarctica. Anticipated completion: February 2028. Working arrangements: Six-day working week during the Antarctic deployment. *All dates are indicative and subject to change Key Responsibilities Operating a range of heavy plant and equipment safely and efficiently in accordance with project requirements. Supporting broader construction and infrastructure activities to meet changing project requirements. Maintaining plant and equipment, and reporting faults as required. Working collaboratively with other trades and project personnel. Ensuring compliance with safety, environmental and operational procedures. Essential Qualifications and Requirements Construction White Card. Current High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) Heavy Rigid (HR) Driver's Licence. Hold Nationally recognised plant operating tickets or Statements of Attainment for: Excavator Roller Articulated Haul Truck Valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity beyond the planned completion of deployment. Ability to obtain and maintain a satisfactory police background check. Experience and Skills Minimum three years' demonstrated experience operating a range of heavy plant and equipment on civil, construction or infrastructure projects. Demonstrated commitment to workplace health and safety. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Desirable Qualifications and Requirements RIIWHS204E - Work safely at heights Current High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) – Crane (C6 or above). Experience Previous Antarctic experience Experience working in remote or challenging environments Additional: Applicants are encouraged to identify any additional licences, tickets or Nationally Recognised Statements of Attainment for the following: Scissor Lift Boom Lift Front End Loader Excavator Skid Steer Telehandler Articulated Haul Truck Roller Scaffold (SB or above) Rigging (RB or above) Dogging What We’re Looking For Successful candidates will be adaptable, resilient and committed to working safely in a remote and challenging environment. You will thrive as part of a close-knit team, demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills, and be willing to contribute positively to station life and the broader community. Above all, you will embody the AIR Alliance values of Respect, Safety, Integrity, Inclusivity, Innovation and Accountability. Life at Davis Station Living and working at Davis Station presents unique environmental and operational challenges. Antarctica's extreme climate and unpredictable weather conditions require adaptability, flexibility and a strong commitment to safety. While Davis Station offers private bedrooms and comfortable facilities, successful expeditioners understand the importance of contributing to a close-knit station community. In addition to your role, you will be expected to participate in shared responsibilities that support station life. Periods of isolation, weather-related restrictions on movement, and limited contact with family and friends can also form part of the deployment experience. Support Throughout Your Deployment The AIR Alliance is committed to supporting expeditioners throughout their deployment. Successful candidates will receive pre-departure training, resilience and wellbeing preparation, and ongoing support for both expeditioners and their families before, during and after deployment. Why Join Us? Working in Antarctica offers challenges and experiences that few construction projects can match. You'll have the opportunity to put your skills to the test, work alongside a highly skilled team and experience life in a part of the world that most people will never get to visit. The Australian Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal Program is a chance to be part of a project with a lasting impact while gaining valuable professional and personal experience. Beyond the experience itself, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to a significant milestone in Australia's Antarctic history, helping deliver infrastructure that will support Australia's scientific and operational activities for years to come. Recruitment Timeline for the 2027/28 Program *Dates are used as a rough guide and subject to change Applications: November 2026 Shortlisting: November 2026 to January 2027 Interviews: January 2027 to March 2027 Assessment Centres (completed through the Australian Antarctic Program): April 2027 to June 2027 Medical / Psychological Assessments (completed through the Australian Antarctic Program): April 2027 to July 2027 Reference checks: June 2027 to July 2027 Employment Offers: July 2027 Progression through the recruitment process is subject to successfully meeting the requirements of each assessment stage. Applicants will receive updates and important information via the email address provided in their application. Please monitor your inbox regularly, including your junk or spam folder, to ensure you don't miss any correspondence. Applying To assist with the assessment process, please ensure your resume clearly lists all relevant plant operating qualifications, licences, tickets, certifications and plant competencies, including licence classes and High Risk Work Licences. All applications and resumes must be submitted through Jora. Applications sent directly via email may not be reviewed or considered as part of the recruitment process. Contact For enquiries regarding this opportunity, please email AIRP-Jobs@antarctic-alliance.com For more information about the Australian Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal Program and to stay up to date with project news and future opportunities: Australian Antarctic Infrastructure Renewal Program: https://www.antarctica.gov.au/antarctic-operations/airp/ AIR Alliance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/antarctic-infrastructure-renewal-alliance/ AIR Alliance is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and members of the LGBTIQA+ community. Ready for a Career Experience Like No Other? Be part of a skilled and dedicated team delivering essential infrastructure renewal works in Antarctica. This is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself professionally, contribute to Australia's Antarctic future and experience life at Davis Station. Apply now through Jora and take the first step towards your Antarctic adventure!