Laboratory Instrument Technician / Palmer Station

Leidos

1d • $87,100 - $157,450 • Onsite

About The Position

The Laboratory Instrument Technician supports the safe operation and maintenance of laboratories serving U.S. Antarctic Program scientists at Palmer Station, Antarctica. The laboratories include analytical chemistry, computer, microbiology, microscopy, molecular biology, radioisotope, seawater aquaria, and general-use facilities supporting atmospheric physics, geology, and glaciology projects.

This seasonal position requires deployment to Antarctica for approximately seven months, from March through October 2027, during the Austral Winter. Pre-deployment training may be required. The employee must complete the physical, dental, and psychological examinations required by the National Science Foundation (NSF), pass an EBI background check, and obtain a Public Trust security clearance before starting. Due to contract requirements, U.S. citizenship is required. Deployment eligibility is subject to background investigation and security screening, and the NSF retains final authority over deployment eligibility.

Requirements

• Typically requires a bachelor’s degree and 4–8 years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree and 2–6 years of relevant experience; experience may be accepted in lieu of education.
• Four years of laboratory or observatory technical work experience, including operational experience using analytical equipment.
• Deep understanding of and ability to apply principles, theories, and concepts in the technical domain, with broad understanding of related specialty areas.
• Ability to work independently to achieve day-to-day objectives with significant impact on operational results or project deliverables.
• U.S. citizenship is required by contract requirements; the qualifications section also lists U.S. citizenship or green card status.
• Must obtain a Public Trust security clearance before the start date; the process may take up to four months.
• Must deploy to Antarctica and successfully complete NSF-required physical and dental examinations, as well as pass an EBI background check. The posting also identifies psychological examinations as an NSF deployment requirement.
• Candidates must meet deployment eligibility requirements, including the stated restriction concerning discipline or separation related to stalking, sexual assault, or sexual harassment incidents within the past three years.
• During the interview, candidates must keep their camera on; the interviewer will take a picture for identification purposes if an offer letter is extended.

Nice To Haves

• Background in an academic research environment providing direct support to science projects.
• Previous experience working in Antarctica or at another remote research station.

Responsibilities

• Assist with reviewing research requirements and planning and scheduling laboratory support for science projects.
• Assist with researching, evaluating, justifying, and procuring laboratory and field instruments and equipment.
• Assist with receiving and inventorying capital equipment, instruments, materials, and supplies.
• Provide the S&TPS Peninsula Implementation Manager with input on improvements to laboratories and associated systems to enhance their use as research facilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level