Antarctica New Zealand and New Zealand Antarctic Society Volunteer Programme
Seeking Expressions of Interest
Voluntary Work in Antarctica
Painter / Decorator work
December 2010/ January 2011
The New Zealand Antarctic Society (Incoportated) and Antarctica New Zealand have entered into an agreement to provide an opportunity for two New Zealand Antarctic Society members to work voluntarily at Scott Base, Antarctica for approximately four to six weeks in December 2010/January 2011.
The voluntary work is that of painter/decorators, mainly painting window sills at Scott Base and will report to Antarctica NZ's Engineering Supervisor and work under the direction of the Scott Base Carpenters.
While formal painter/decorator trades qualifications are not necessary, a proven ability at painting and decorating is required. The successful volunteers will be expected to work outside, on scaffolding.
The candidates must have the following
Strong Health, Safety and Environment values
Proven ability in exterior painting
Sound decision making and work ethics
Current membership of the New Zealand Antarctic Society
Hold a current full Class 1 NZ drivers license
Hold a current workplace first aid certificate valid for the duration of the role
Possess the personal qualities required to fit in socially and professionally with a diverse range of people
The Volunteers are required to undergo all Antarctica NZ's induction processes prior to departure; including obtaining a medical clearance, undergoing police check, psychometric testing, pre deployment training and any role specific training.
If you are interested in applying for one of two positions please download and complete an application form right click this link to download the word document and return it to:
Julie Battersby
Chairman, Canterbury Branch
New Zealand Antarctic Society
P O Box 404
Christchurch
Applications must be marked 'Volunteer Application' to arrive no later than Friday 20 August 2010.
All applicants must be current financial members of the New Zealand Antarctic Society and be resident in New Zealand.
To join the New Zealand Antarctic Society click on the Join Us button on the left hand menu or click here...
Frequently Asked Questions
What experience do I need to apply for the programme?
You need to have a good knowledge and experience in the processes involved in painting exterior window sills. You will be expected to work in extreme cold conditions and work on scaffolding.
When does the programme start and finish?
You would normally leave Christchurch around 18th December and return around the end of January. Actual flight dates are controlled by the weather.
Do I need previous experience of working on the ice?
No, although having an understanding of what it is like to work in the cold conditions is important.
What are the hours of work?
Scott base works a 6 day week with Sundays off. A working week is a minimum of 48 hours and everyone on base is asked to pitch in to assist other staff if needed.
Applicants are initially considered by a small committee of the local branch of the New Zealand Antarctic Society. Each branch forwards their three top candidates to a committee selected by the Executive of the Society who review the final short list and recommend six candidates to Antarctica New Zealand for final selection. Antarctica New Zealand puts candidates through psychosomatic testing and interviews the final candidates. Antarctica New Zealand short list to three finalists all of whom undergo a full medical and Antarctic base training. Two successful candidates are finally selected with the third on standby in case one needs to withdraw for any reason.
