Specialist in Polar History

Viking was founded in 1997 and has grown to be the leading small ship travel company, offering destination-focused river, ocean and expedition voyages on all seven continents. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests The Thinking Person’s Cruise® in contrast to mainstream cruises.

With more than 250 awards to its name, the company currently operates a fleet of state-of-the-art ships that have received numerous accolades since their launch from industry experts and travelers alike. For the second year in a row, Viking was voted the #1 River Line and the #1 Ocean Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking was also named #1 for both Rivers and Oceans by Travel + Leisure in the 2022 World’s Best Awards making it the only cruise line to reach the top of its categories in both publications in the same year.

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

Viking Expeditions is a new arm of Viking Cruises to deliver expedition cruises in destinations previously not operated by Viking Cruises. We are currently building two bespoke expedition vessels, designed to be the perfect platform for delivering expeditions. Each vessel operates a fleet of Milpro Mk5 zodiacs, two offshore 13m RIBs, two U-boat Worx Cruise 7 submersibles, and a fleet of kayaks.  The vessels will also operate as credible, rigorous research platforms, with a 40sqm wet-lab onboard, a range of scientific instrumentation, and with resident field scientists year-round.  Viking expeditions are partnering with a suite of academic institutions, notably Cambridge University’s Scott Polar Research Institute, US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (NOAA GLERL), Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA) to collaboratively deliver a comprehensive research program.

Our specialists hold a senior role on-board Viking’s expedition vessels and are key contributors to the delivery of Viking’s Enrichment Program by giving presentations, workshops and guiding interpretative walks and hikes on shore; and by mingling in guest areas on board, encouraging and facilitating an environment of informal education.  Our specialists’ professional / academic research backgrounds will also, as appropriate, enhance our research program.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Professional Skills 

• Strong leader, team player and an inspiration to others
•  Extensive experience in a specialized academic field
• Fantastic communication skills, especially of technical information to interested non-specialists
• Knowledgeable about expedition operations
• Works well under pressure
• Smart, presentable, friendly and excellent people skills
• Good computer & Microsoft Office experience (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc)
• English speaking and writing to a high standard

General Duties 

• Prepare and conduct formal enrichment lectures, “Ted-x style” talks and informal workshops
• Lead walks, hikes or drive zodiacs as per instructed by the Assistant Expedition Leader
• During off-ship activities, act as an interpretative guide, engaging guests and enhancing their experience
• Socialize and be visible in guest areas as often as possible

• When assigned, write a short blurb reflecting the day’s experiences for marketing or other purposes
• Assist with embarkation and disembarkation duties as necessary
• Assist in any other general duties assigned by the Expedition Admin Team
• Be a role model by leading by example.

Mindset and Values 

• Be well groomed and of professional personality and focused on delivering 100% satisfaction
• Enthusiastic and proactive, loves to share his/her knowledge
• Operationally disciplined, able to rigorously ensure all Viking SOPs are followed
• Adhere to schedules, always setting good standards and an example to colleagues

Communication & Coordination 

• Report to the Expedition Program Coordinator

Your profile:

• Previous experience in a similar role or relevant experience lecturing
• demonstrated experience in the Expedition Cruise Industry – advantageous
• Successful in your field of expertise
• Established track record of scientific publications – advantageous
• Good administration and organization
• Proactive problem solving
• Teamwork and good communication
• Well organized, efficient and positive
• Understand guest needs
• Proactive in upholding Viking standards of excellence
• Marine Radio Operator’s VHF license or equivalent
• Small boat license (RYA Powerboat level 2 or equivalent) – Advantageous

Guidelines and Regulations:

• Implement Standard Operating Procedures & STAR Service Standards within the department.
• Ensure appropriate appearance and clothing according to the updated Grooming Standards.
• For work in Polar Regions: have passed the appropriate and most recent field staff online assessment of IAATO/AECO.

• The company reserves the right to change/extend this job description if necessary, at any point of time during her/his employment.