The South African National Space Agency
VOLUNTEER POSITIONS FOR THE RELIEF VOYAGE TO SANAE IV, ANTARTICA
SANSA has the mandate to drive the promotion and use of space and cooperation in space-related activities. To achieve this, the Agency fosters research in space science and technology, advances space engineering programmes, and supports industrial development in space technologies within the framework of national government policy. More information about SANSA can be found at www.sansa.org.za.
About the Opportunity
SANSA is assembling a team of volunteers to participate in the annual relief expedition to SANAE IV, Antarctica. This is a unique and extraordinary opportunity for individuals with a scientific or engineering background to experience life and work in one of the most remote environments on Earth.
The SANAE IV research station is located at 71°S, 2°W – approximately 4280 km from Cape Town Harbour. Successful candidates will embark on South Africa’s polar research and supply vessel, the SA Agulhas II, for a voyage of approximately 14 days to Antarctica. Upon arrival, volunteers will be stationed at the SANAE IV base for the entire relief period, working under the guidance of the Group Leader or Senior Engineer.
Key Responsibilities
Volunteers will assist with a variety of critical tasks essential to the operation and maintenance of the research station. Duties will include:
- Assisting with critical infrastructure maintenance.
- Servicing scientific instruments and equipment.
- Supporting logistical operations during the expedition.
- Performing physical labour as required in a challenging environment.
Requirements
Ideal candidates must meet the following criteria:
- This is a voluntary position; no salary will be paid, however, all expenses from Cape Town onwards (travel, accommodation, gear, etc.) will be covered by SANSA.
- Must be physically fit and mentally resilient to handle the extreme and challenging conditions of Antarctica.
- Work will involve significant physical labour and hiking over rough terrain in extreme Antarctic weather.
- Must have a background in science, engineering, or a related technical field.
- Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo a full medical examination, including a dental check, at SANSA’s cost.
- For SANSA students: A letter of permission from your supervisor is required.
- For SANSA staff members: Written permission from your line manager is required.
More information about life at SANAE IV can be found at www.sanap.ac.za.
Voyage Details
Estimated Dates: 9 December 2025 – 9 February 2026 (To Be Confirmed)
The expedition will begin and end in Cape Town, with all travel and logistics handled by SANSA.
How to Apply
To apply for this once-in-a-lifetime volunteer opportunity, please submit the following documentation via the official SANSA website:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A cover letter summarizing your motivation for applying.
- If applicable, the required permission letter from your supervisor or line manager.
Apply for this position at: sansa.mcidirecthire.com
Disclaimer
Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not been contacted within four (4) weeks of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful. SANSA follows strict, fair, and non-discriminatory selection procedures. Affirmative Action measures will be used to redress employment disadvantages experienced by designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act.
Background verification, including criminal records, credit checks, security clearances, qualifications, citizenship checks, competency assessments, and psychometric testing, will form part of the selection process. By applying, you consent to SANSA collecting, processing, and sharing your Personal Information for verification and employment purposes.
SANSA reserves the right to defer or close this vacancy at any time.