Overview of the role
Here is the opportunity of a lifetime – to practice generalist medicine in one of the most challenging, rewarding and unique environments in the world – Antarctica.
As an Antarctic Medical Practitioner (AMP) you will provide complete generalist medical, surgical and emergency dental care for a remote community at an Australian Antarctic station, during a voyage and in Antarctic and subantarctic field environments.
You will be the sole medical practitioner at the station, providing total health care service for approximately 15 to 18 wintering expeditioners, up to 120 during summer (October to March) and up to 130 passengers and crew on expedition voyages. Most positions available are for winter (total employment 15–18 months, with time in Antarctica 10–15 months). Occasional shorter term appointments may be available as ships’ and summer station and field doctors.
Suitable candidates may be considered for engagement/employment as an Antarctic Medical Practitioner in respect of the 2017–18 Antarctic season.
The experience of living and working in this remote region is very different from that of most suburban or rural practices and most AMPs look back on their time in this beautiful, harsh and icy environment as stimulating and rewarding.
For more detailed information about the requirements of this role and the selection process, please see the application kit below. You might also like to read more about working as an Antarctic Medical Practitioner in Antarctica.
Employment conditions
Salary and allowances
The annual base salary (while in Australia) is $126,096–$183,891 per annum ($4,834–$7,050 per fortnight before tax).
Additional allowances totalling $56,335 per annum are payable while working in Antarctica.
Further allowances for recognition of prior service (up to $11,500 per annum) and working a winter season may be payable.
You will also receive ACRRM accredited remote and Antarctic medicine training and professional development, medical indemnity and professional development support and opportunities for research and higher degrees in remote and polar medicine. The AAD has developed with UTAS, the UTAS Masters of Public Health (Remote and Polar Health).
Superannuation
A generous employer superannuation contribution of up to 15.4% will be paid in addition to salary and allowances.
Recreation leave
You will accrue recreation leave at the equivalent of 20 days per annum pro rata. Please note that recreation leave is not available in Antarctica, but will be paid out on return to Australia.
Contact
To discuss your application, please ring 1800 030 755 for general information or contact Dr Jeff Ayton on (03) 6232 3300 for position specific matters.
Important Note: If you are not an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or are not resident in Australia, in the first instance please contact Dr Jeff Ayton, Chief Medical Officer on +61 3 6232 3300 or email medicine@aad.gov.au.
Application kit
The following documents contain important information you need to know about employment and related issues – please read them carefully.
Please note that if you do not demonstrate that you meet the required skills, knowledge and attributes for the role your application will not be considered further.
General information for applicants [PDF]
Job description [PDF]
Antarctic Medical Practitioner application questions [Word]
To apply as an Antarctic Medical Practitioner please ensure you have read all the information available prior to emailing a current CV and your responses to the application questions [Word] to recruitment@aad.gov.au.
