Job Interview

It was a little surreal: I had been standing in line for about 45 minutes, resume in hand, to get about 5 minutes of face time with the hiring manager. In line in front of me were two men in suits and ties. Some had Master’s degrees, all had long and impressive resumes. And we were all vying for a low wage job as a janitor. In Antarctica.

Raytheon Polar Services division has the contract to service the scientific colony for the National Science Foundation, so in the austral summer, a small town of some 600-1000 residents forms and then disbands on the southern-most continent at McMurdo Bay. Naturally that many people need food, housing, recreation, and all the necessities of life below freezing. That was why I found myself standing in line for an hour and 45 minutes for the job of shuttle driver. I admit, when the interviewer asked how I felt about driving on the ice shelf in white-out conditions, I had to pause. I think I said something about being interested to learn new techniques.

Funny, I had rarely considered how many jobs I am not qualified for until asked by a manager about my experience operating a crane in sub-zero weather. I usually figure I can bluff and buffalo my way through most interview questions and learn on the job, but there was no getting around some of them. Thankfully someone with my skill set is qualified to be a: dishwasher, janitor, shuttle driver (maybe), outdoor recreation coordinator (the job I really want!), and general assistant. Actually, if ever there was a job I am qualified for it is General Assistant. Do anything, anywhere, in any conditions, for long hours every day. Ok, no prob, Bob.

So, a few hours in Denver selling myself to the old timers who have been deploying for years (funny, they don’t look deranged), and then I was working my way toward Nebraska, where I now find myself helping work on the ranch for the next 2 weeks.