Oversee air cargo operations at remote airfields supporting the US Antarctic Program, ensuring efficient and secure movement of freight and passengers in one of the most challenging environments on Earth. This position plays a critical role in maintaining operational continuity by managing cargo logistics, supervising rotating teams, and ensuring strict adherence to safety and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct cargo handling operations for aircraft from multiple providers, including military and contracted flights
- Supervise personnel during aircraft loading and unloading, ensuring compliance with safety and weight distribution protocols
- Manage automated and manual material handling equipment, including forklifts, pallet jacks, and cargo transport vehicles
- Verify cargo manifests, inspect packaging, and confirm compliance with transportation regulations for hazardous and special cargo
- Secure freight using approved tie-down methods and ensure adherence to US Air Force cargo safety standards
- Conduct quality checks on cargo loads and document any discrepancies, damage, or shortages
- Perform daily equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on cargo handling machinery and vehicles
- Train team members on airfield safety, cargo procedures, and emergency protocols
- Act as primary contact for flight crews and coordinate with air operations personnel to streamline cargo workflows
- Update cargo records and mission documentation using automated tracking systems
- Assume leadership duties in the absence of the shift supervisor and provide performance feedback for team members
- Support station-wide safety initiatives through participation in safety meetings and compliance audits
Qualifications
- High School diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum two years of experience in freight logistics, cargo documentation, and hazardous materials handling
- Proven experience in airfield operations and familiarity with aircraft load planning
- Understanding of weight and balance principles and cargo securing techniques
- Proficiency with cargo tracking systems such as MAXIMO and ICODES, and Microsoft Office applications
- Valid U.S. driver’s license and ability to obtain site access credentials
- U.S. citizenship required for credentialing
- Ability to pass required medical, dental, drug screening, and federal background checks
- Willingness to deploy to Antarctica for extended durations and perform physically demanding tasks in extreme cold
- Commitment to participate in station maintenance and community programs
Preferred Experience
- Class “A” U.S. driver’s license
- Supervisory or leadership experience in logistics or operations
- Knowledge of US Air Force loading regulations (Dash 9)
- Experience in polar or remote logistics environments
