Antarctic Airfield Manager

About the Role

The role is based at McMurdo Station and South Pole Station, with a deployment period of 7 months. The Airfield Manager will be part of a team responsible for providing operational and logistical support to the National Science Foundation's Office of Polar Programs. The team's efforts are crucial in enabling scientific research and discovery in Antarctica.

As the primary point of contact for airfield management activities, the Airfield Manager will work closely with the National Science Foundation, military and other contractors, subcontractors, and Antarctic Support Contract departments. Effective communication and coordination skills are essential in this role, as well as the ability to work in a remote and demanding environment.

What You Will Do

• Supervise daily airfield operations at McMurdo Station and South Pole Station
• Manage airfield inspections and runway condition reports
• Coordinate with NSF, area organizations, and departments regarding airfield flight support capability and airfield services
• Lead all coordination with NSF, area organizations, and departments regarding airfield services
• Oversee airfield maintenance and ensure compliance with ASC, NSF, US Army Corps of Engineers Cold Regions Research and Engineering Lab (CRREL) procedures/policies, and United States Air Force (USAF) Airfield Engineering requirements
• Report airfield status and coordinate support at NSF Town Hall, Air Operations Planning Board (AOPB), and all other meetings as required
• Coordinate the annual certification activities for Phoenix Airfield for submittal to NSF
• Resolve technical discrepancies with airfield regulations in coordination with other contractors and agencies
• Report airfield facility status and changes to primary USAP airfield users - senior NSF officials, New York Air National Guard (NYANG) 109th and Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC), in a timely and professional manner

What We Are Looking For

• Proven experience in airfield management or a related field
• Strong understanding of airfield operations, maintenance, and regulatory requirements
• Excellent communication and coordination skills
• Ability to work in a remote and challenging environment
• Public Trust security clearance investigation prior to start date
• US citizenship or permanent residence
• Completion of physical and dental examinations required by the NSF for deploying to Antarctica

Nice to Have

• Experience working in Antarctica or similar extreme environments
• Knowledge of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements and federal and military air regulations
• Familiarity with aeronautical charts and maps, publications, flight data, and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work on a unique and critical project in Antarctica
• Professional development and growth opportunities
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs
• Generous paid time off and leave policies
• Remote work stipend and support for remote work setup

• Ensure you have the necessary skills and experience in airfield management, as well as the ability to work in a remote and challenging environment.
• Familiarize yourself with the regulatory requirements for airfield operations, including ICAO and US military regulations.
• Highlight your experience working in extreme environments or remote locations in your application.
• Be prepared for a thorough background investigation and security clearance process.
• Research Leidos and the United States Antarctic Program to demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the role and organization.
• Prepare examples of your experience with airfield inspections, maintenance, and coordination with stakeholders to discuss during the interview process.