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Antarctic Workforce Struggles with Infractions, but Reward System Helps Boost Morale

McMurdo Station, Antarctica - The harsh conditions of Antarctica can be a challenge for even the most seasoned employees at McMurdo Station. However, despite occasional conflicts and infractions, the station’s human resources department has implemented a unique system to reward good behavior and maintain morale.

Reward System Boosts Morale

According to HR Manager Weir, there were only three disciplinary actions taken last winter, but over 2,000 “attaboys” - a system where employees are awarded cash prizes for being “caught doing something right.” The reward system is designed to boost morale, which is critical in the isolated Antarctic environment.

“If morale goes down the tubes, we’ve got a big problem on our hands,” Weir said.

Handling Conflicts

Living and working in close quarters can exacerbate conflicts, but Weir and her team are equipped to handle any issues that may arise. She wears a pager and is notified immediately if there’s a problem involving an employee during the night. The following day, she investigates the incident and works with supervisors to resolve the issue.

“Getting into a fight is grounds for termination,” Weir said. “However, we can’t simply fire someone when no planes can land or take off. So, we have to work harder to help employees resolve their problems.”

Serious Infractions

In rare cases, serious infractions do occur. Last winter, an employee was caught with illegal drugs, which led to automatic dismissal. The employee agreed to continue working and was paid for his services until the first plane arrived.

Peer Counseling Groups

The station’s HR team also offers peer counseling groups to help employees work through conflicts and personal issues.

“I’m convinced that you can reduce employee turnover by resolving problems rather than just terminating people,” Weir said.

Ice Fatigue and Incentives

As the season comes to a close, employees are often faced with the challenges of “Ice fatigue.” By this point, they’re physically tired, tired of each other, and ready for a change of scene. However, most employees stick it out, knowing that failure to complete their contracts means forfeiting their bonuses and being flown directly home.

The station offers various incentives to encourage employees to stay the course:

Those who successfully complete a contract season are eligible for a performance-based completion bonus averaging 22 percent of base salary.
Employees who work consecutive summer and winter seasons receive a $1,000 or $1,500 bonus, depending on their location.
The biggest perk, however, is the fare credit system, which allows employees to use the cost of their ticket home towards purchasing a ticket around the world with stops on three to six continents.

Employee Loyalty

Despite the challenges, many employees return year after year. The harsh conditions and close quarters can build deep friendships that last a lifetime.

“Many people come back year after year,” said recruiting manager Johnson. “And when they go home, they hold retreats back in the States.”

Network administrator Dennis Hoffman is one such employee, having spent 11 winters at McMurdo Station. He credits his decision to return with the friends he made and the camaraderie he shared on The Ice.

“I have more friends here than back in the States,” he said.