Description
The McMurdo Research Associate supports a variety of scientific research projects in the physical and astrophysical sciences at McMurdo Station during the austral summer (October to February). In accordance with technical direction provided by grantees, subcontractors, and the National Science Foundation, the Research Associate works with advanced scientific instrumentation, assists in the collection of data, troubleshoots problems, and carries out research protocols for NSF-funded science.
This is a seasonal position (approx. 5 months) with an expected salary range of $77,000 - $87,000 annually ($6,417 - $7,250 per month deployed), plus a percentage increase during deployment.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust security clearance. This process may take up to 4 months.
Eligibility for deployment will require physical and dental evaluations with parameters determined by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Due to contract requirements, US citizenship is required.
About the Antarctic Support Contract:
Leidos Antarctic Support Contract (ASC) is the prime contractor to the National Science Foundation (NSF) in support of the United States Antarctic Program (USAP). Leidos supports the NSF’s Office of Polar Program’s Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics by aligning with their Mission and Vision Statements:
Vision: Expanding our scientific reach in Antarctica through increased operational and logistical effectiveness.
Mission: To provide the operational and logistical platform necessary for the U.S. to conduct world-class science in Antarctica and maintain its active and influential presence on the continent.
Leidos ASC provides science and logistics support for approximately 150 science and technical events across three geographically remote research stations; McMurdo Station, Palmer Station, and South Pole Station and several deep field sites across Antarctica. Each station or field site supports world class research across multiple science disciplines. The planning and implementation of science support requirements in Antarctica is a critical part of our mission.
Primary Responsibilities:
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Deploys to McMurdo Station, Antarctica, from early October to late February.
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Maintains, troubleshoots, and repairs a variety of equipment used in the long-term monitoring of physical phenomena including (but not limited to) UV spectroradiometers, GPS receivers, VLF radio receivers, seismometers, all sky imagers, lasers, magnetometers, photometers, interferometers, and other optical instruments.
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Collects, archives, and transmits data and status reports to project researchers.
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Regularly employs ingenuity and creativity to develop new technical solutions and systems in order to achieve functional objectives.
Minimum Qualifications:
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Requires ability to apply principles, theories, and concepts from the technical domain and has a broad understanding of other related specialty areas.
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Requires a BS degree and 4 – 8 years of prior relevant experience, or a Masters degree with 2 – 6 years of prior relevant experience, or equivalent.
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Able to work independently to achieve day-to-day objectives with significant impact on operational results or project deliverables.
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Fluency with networking topics and file transfer tools required. Administrator ability for Macintosh and Linux/Unix platforms required. Unix system administration ability required.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Master’s degree or higher in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, Electrical, Aeronautical or other engineering discipline is preferred.
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A background in an academic research environment providing direct support to science projects is preferred.
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Experience in general computer repair including IBM-PC, Macintosh, and network equipment preferred.
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Experience with Python and SQL databases; RA should be able to write scripts for automation and reporting, including visualizations.
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Two years’ experience in laboratory or observatory technical work. Laboratory or observatory technical work should include operational experience utilizing experimental, physical, optical, or atmospheric science equipment. Experience handling cryogens preferred but not required.
At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that allow them to thrive professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business. We’re excited to learn more about you – apply today!
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July 10, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range $69,550.00 - $125,725.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.
Pay and Benefits
Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.
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Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.
