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Fed up with the rat race? Sick of the daily grind commuting to your 9 to 5 in London? Scientists are launching a recruitment drive for workers in Antarctica.

The British Antarctic Survey is seeking staff in a range of roles including builders, carpenters, electricians, engineers and chefs to work at their bases on the icy continent — perfect for those who do not mind braving temperatures of up to minus 50C and living in near-constant darkness in winter.

But one engineer who took up the offer says it was the “best decision” he ever made. Tom Clements, 29, applied for the job as a technician for the British Antarctic Survey when he was made redundant after 10 years at a pharmaceutical company.

He has been there for 16 months and is responsible for keeping the Halley VI research station, in British Antarctic Territory, running throughout the bitter winter. In summer he helps move buildings that have been buried in snow.

He said there is “never a dull moment” and he gets to ride skidoos, kiteboard and relax with a drink. “I love it down here — it’s a different world. I’ve got no worries,” he added. “It doesn’t feel like a job — you are working to be able to live. It’s so nice to be free.

“There’s moments when I’ve gone outside, it’s pitch black and the green aurora lights the sky. You look into the distance and it puts into perspective how in the middle of nowhere you are. You feel so insignificant. The closest person is thousands of miles away and if anything was to happen and you needed help, you’re on your own. It’s changed me as a person. I’m so much more comfortable in myself now.

Getting to see nature up close is another advantage: “I absolutely love the penguins. The first time I went to see them I got a lump in my throat. You see them on David Attenborough documentaries, but when you see them in person it’s such a special thing.”

Despite being in one of the remotest places in the world, there could even be a chance to find love — couples have met on the bases, he added. Mr Clements, from Sussex, has two months until his contract ends. He admitted he misses home comforts such fast wi-fi, Dairylea dunkers and Nando’s.

Contracts run from four to 18 months. There is a starting salary of £23,937 per annum, with a 10 per cent bonus on successful completion, with living and training expenses covered.

Mr Clements said: “If you consider even looking at the job advert and reading the description you’ve got to go for the job. You’ve got nothing to lose. It’s the best decision you will make.”