Satellite Communications Engineer/Communications Technician - Palmer, Antarctica (Austral Summer 2026)

Note: If you would like to be considered for more than one position or position tier, please individually apply for all positions that you are interested in.  One application submitted for a specific position does not automatically include you to be considered for all positions that you may be qualified to perform.

Job Purpose

This position is a combination of the satellite communications engineer, communications technician, telephone technician, and electronics technician.  The individual is responsible for all communications functions at the National Science Foundation's (NSF) scientific research base at Palmer Station, Antarctica.  This includes C-band satellite, HF/VHF/UHF radio, telephones, LAN cabling, and scientific electronics. 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain and repair C-band satellite earth station including 4.9 m dish, LNAs, waveguides, dehydrators, up/down converters, solid state power amplifiers, modems, and monitoring & control system (MaxView).   The satellite system supports voice, data, video transfer, and critical life safety needs such as medical video teleconference calls.
• Monitor and analyze satellite communication link, identify performance issues, and coordinate with satellite and teleport providers. 
• Provide engineering and subject matter expert support for communication system designs, projects, and upgrades.  
• Create and maintain communications systems documentation.
• Review communications systems for sparing and life cycle maintenance schedules.
• Maintain Inmarsat and Iridium satellite terminals and user equipment.
• Install, maintain, program, and repair VHF marine mobile, base station, and hand-held radios; VHF/UHF linked remote repeaters; repeater controllers; and tone remotes.
• Maintain marine AIS (Automatic Identification System) transceivers, receivers, and mapping software to monitor and track vessel movement for life safety.
• Install, maintain, and repair HF radio equipment and systems.
• Oversee antenna riggers performing annual antenna and tower maintenance.  Perform minor tower work for urgent repairs.
• Support station telephony, both VoIP and analog.
• Maintain and install station copper and fiber cable plant.  Maintain documentation.
• Manage network and communications system UPS units ranging from 1500 VA to 10 kVA.
• Construct and maintain solar power systems for remote repeaters, weather data sites, and seasonal science needs.  Maintain 12 V and 24 V DC power systems used in assorted communications systems.
• Install and maintain wireless LAN systems including bridges to remote islands and ships.
• Service weather data collection systems on remote islands.
• Maintain station public address system.
• Assist with repair and fabrication of equipment for scientific and station electronic systems.
• Monitor VHF and HF radio traffic.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residence is required.
• Bachelor's degree with an emphasis in engineering, communications systems, or satellite systems.  Equivalent experience accepted in lieu of degree.
• Diversified satellite engineering experience in design, system integration, operational support and review.
• Demonstrated experience supporting and maintaining technical communication equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair a wide range of electronics equipment. 
• Soldering, cable building and electronic project fabrication skills.
• Experience with spectrum analyzers, RF service monitors, data test sets, oscilloscopes, and RF power meters.
• Experience with fiber optic cable splicing, copper and optical TDRs, 66 and 110 punch blocks and tools, and BICSI cabling standards. 
• Strong computer skills.  MS Office, satellite M&C software, and radio programming.
• Fall protection and tower climbing safety experience preferred.
• Experience with search and rescue, mountaineering, small boat operations, firefighting, or emergency medical response desired, but not required.

Competencies

• Outstanding customer service and interaction skills.
• High level of initiative and dedication.
• Ability to work both independently with little supervision, and in a team environment.
• Ability to get along well with others living and working in close quarters.

Physical Requirements

• Deployment will be required in this position. The individual in the position must successfully complete physical and dental examinations as required by the NSF for deploying to Antarctica.   Failure to meet these requirements may result in withdrawal of employment offer or other employment action.
• Individual must be capable of operating a standard desktop computer; must be able to lift and carry up to 10 pounds.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Position Expectations

• This is a full-time, seasonal position located in Antarctica.
• All expenses paid while deployed including meals, lodging, cold-weather gear, tools, and travel to/from Antarctica.
• Performance Period: Oct 2026 - Apr 2027

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer as defined by the EEOC