Agricultural Plant Mechanic

Interview/assessment/start date: Interviews week commencing 24th March, start dates from 1st May 2025.

British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is looking for an exceptional Agricultural Plant Mechanic to join our team based in Antarctica. BAS delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the Polar Regions. We employ experts from many different professions to carry out our Science as well as keep the lights on, feed the research and support teams, and keep everyone safe!

Working at BAS is rewarding. Our skilled science, operational and support staff based in Cambridge, Antarctica, and the Arctic work together to deliver research that uses the Polar Regions to advance our understanding of Earth as a sustainable planet. Through our extensive logistic capability and know-how, BAS facilitates access for the British and international science community to the UK polar research operation. Numerous national and international collaborations, combined with an excellent infrastructure, help sustain a world-leading position for the UK in Antarctic affairs. British Antarctic Survey is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation.

What we offer:

As a valued employee, you’ll be eligible for benefits including an end of contract payment upon completion of a successful assignment in Antarctica, annual leave, a defined benefit pension scheme with NEST (National Employment Savings Trust), and access to a 24 hours/365 days per year employee assistance programme. In addition, you will be provided with pre-deployment training and accommodation costs. All food, accommodation, and polar clothing during Antarctic deployment will also be provided.

Within the role, there will also be an opportunity to develop your knowledge of different machinery while adapting to an entirely unique work environment. Training will be provided to support you as you prepare to live and work in the extreme polar environment. In addition, you will need to pass a medical to demonstrate that you are medically fit to work in Antarctic conditions.

You’ll be joining a world-leading interdisciplinary research organisation that is committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career, and giving you the support you need to thrive at BAS.

In this role, your main responsibilities will include:

1. Carrying out machine plant diagnostics, servicing, and repairs to the highest standard on all station vehicles.
2. Undertaking computer technical diagnostics, identifying issues, and problem-solving as required.
3. Keeping the garage and workshops in a safe and tidy condition, maintaining a detailed spare parts inventory, and following Health and Safety guidance to ensure the smooth running of the workshop.
4. Operating mobile plant when required for snow clearance and general station snow management.
5. Working effectively as part of a team contributing to the overall success of operations through teamwork and good communication.
6. Building strong and positive working relationships to maintain and improve the vehicles section profile.

You will bring to the role:

1. Proven experience of maintaining and servicing mobile plant equipment controlling a varied fleet of vehicles, diesel generators, and ancillary plant.
2. Possess a relevant qualification or equivalent experience in a mechanic-based area.
3. A wide range of experience in the maintenance and overhaul of contractor’s plant, farm machinery, or heavy vehicles.
4. A flexible attitude to daily tasks and the ability to adapt and deal with changing priorities.
5. Ability to work well in a team by being understanding and respectful of peers and colleagues.

Please download the job description for more details.

If we’ve just described you, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now at bas.ac.uk/vacancies.

What experiences can we offer you?

At BAS we believe everyone plays a vital role, is unique and valued; therefore, we embrace diversity as well as equality of opportunity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming working environment where everyone’s unique perspectives are valued.

Different perspectives and collaborative working help us achieve our best work and come together to form a high-performing team that makes positive changes in the business. That’s the power of every individual. Our cultural values are built on mutual respect, inclusion, commitment, and excellence.

If you are looking for an opportunity to work with world-class and amazing people in one of the most unique places in the world, then British Antarctic Survey could be for you.

If you require the job information in an alternative format (i.e., email, audio, or video), or would like any further information or support, please do not hesitate to get in touch at jobs@bas.ac.uk or alternatively you can call us on 01223 221508.

You can also apply for this role by clicking the Apply Button.