South Pole Machinist

University of Chicago • Town of Plover, WI

46d • $75,000 - $100,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The South Pole Machinist operates and maintains the MAPO machine shop, which is located in the Dark Sector Laboratory of the NSF Amundsen-Scott research station at the South Pole in Antarctica. The Machinist works as part of a team to provide on-site machinist services to scientists and engineers from several universities. A continuous stay at the South Pole, lasting approximately eleven months, is required. The position begins 1/15/2027 and ends 11/30/2027.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Multiple years of experience with machining and working with complex instruments.
• In addition, preference will be given to candidates with experience with telescopes and mechanical systems, including electrical systems, servo systems, and cryogenic systems, as well as radio, analog, and digital electronics.
• Good problem-solving, organization, and communication skills.
• Must have the ability to work independently and as well as within a team environment.
• Planning; attention to detail; analytic and quantitative skills; reading; self-motivation; problem-solving; math; reasoning; oral and written communications; ability to manage time pressures.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate the MAPO machine shop.
• Provide machining support for all science projects and the NSF Station.
• Assist with the assembly and set-up of scientific equipment.
• Assist with the testing, integration and maintenance of electrical and mechanical assemblies, including the power, computer and electronic components.
• Climb, operate machines and power tools outside of MAPO machine shop.
• Other fieldwork for instrument deployment and maintenance.
• Provides technical and administrative support for a research project.
• Assists with the installation, sets up and performs experiments, interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.
• Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed