Pituffik Space Base is a large Arctic operation with many different departments working together every day. Even though employees work in different areas, everyone contributes to keeping the base safe, operational, and running 24/7 in one of the world’s most demanding environments.

Below is a simple overview of the main departments you may encounter during your stay.

Practical Information for New Employees

Please note that opening hours may vary depending on operational requirements, season, weather conditions, and holidays.

1. What is Pituffik Space Base?

Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base) is one of the northernmost operational bases in the world, located in Northwest Greenland. It supports Arctic operations, space surveillance, logistics, weather monitoring, communications, and defense-related activities.

2. Who operates the base?

The base is operated in cooperation with the United States Space Force and contractors such as Inussuk A/S under the Base Maintenance Contract (BMC), which includes logistics, maintenance, construction, catering, transportation, administration, health services, and technical support.

3. What is it like living in Pituffik?

Living in Pituffik is unique:

• Arctic climate and long winters
• Small international community
• Strong teamwork culture
• Shared facilities and housing
• Limited outside access
• Spectacular nature and northern lights

Many employees describe it as both a professional challenge and a personal growth journey.

4. How do I travel to Pituffik?

Most personnel travel:

• Via Copenhagen → Nuuk → Pituffik
  or
• Directly from Nuuk → Pituffik

Travel arrangements are normally coordinated by your employer or HR department. Due to Arctic weather and operational conditions, schedules may occasionally change.

5. What approvals or documents do I need before departure?

You may need:

• Passport
• Work contract
• Security/background approval
• Medical clearance
• Travel authorization
• Base access approval
• Vaccination documentation (if required)

Your employer will guide you through the onboarding process.

6. What happens during onboarding?

Newcomers typically go through:

• Safety briefings
• Arctic survival orientation
• Workplace introduction
• Housing assignment
• IT and communication setup
• Environmental & safety training
• Security instructions
• Introduction to cultural expectations

Inuksuk emphasizes safety, quality, and structured onboarding processes.

7. What should I pack?

Recommended items include:

Clothing

• Warm thermal layers
• Winter boots
• Gloves and hats
• Casual indoor clothing
• Workout clothes

Personal Items

• Prescription medicine
• Hygiene products
• Power adapters
• Entertainment items
• Photos or personal comforts from home

Many essentials are available on base, but options are limited.

8. Is internet available?

Yes, internet is available, though speeds and reliability can vary due to Arctic conditions and operational priorities.

9. What kind of housing can I expect?

Most personnel stay in:

• Shared dormitories or rooms
• Common bathrooms or shared facilities
• Dining hall access
• Laundry facilities
• Recreation areas

Housing standards vary depending on role and assignment.

10. Is there a dining facility?

Yes. Meals are provided through the dining facilities on base. The dining hall supports a large international workforce year-round.

11. What work culture should I expect?

Pituffik is highly operational and team-oriented.

Important values include:

• Reliability
• Safety
• Respect
• Professionalism
• Flexibility
• Being on time
• Helping colleagues

The environment is multicultural, with Greenlandic, Danish, American, and international employees working together.

12. Is safety taken seriously?

Absolutely.

Safety is a core operational principle. Employees receive Environmental, Safety & Health (ESH) training, and everyone has authority to stop unsafe work situations.

13. What happens in emergencies?

The base has:

• Medical services
• Emergency response teams
• Fire and rescue capabilities
• Evacuation procedures
• Communication systems for Arctic operations

All personnel are informed about emergency procedures during onboarding.

14. Can I exercise or do activities in my free time?

Yes. Activities may include:

• Gym/fitness facilities
• Movie nights
• Board games
• Social events
• Hiking (when allowed)
• Northern lights viewing
• Community activities

Previous contracts have emphasized morale and recreational activities as important parts of life on base.

15. What is “Greenland First”?

Greenland First is an initiative focused on creating opportunities for Greenlandic workers, apprentices, students, and local businesses through education, employment, partnerships, and long-term community development.

16. Are apprentices and trainees welcome?

Yes. Apprenticeships and internships are an important part of workforce development in Pituffik.

Programs may include:

• Mechanics
• Logistics
• Administration
• Construction trades
• Catering & gastronomy
• Technical fields

The apprenticeship program also supports young Greenlanders adapting to life away from home for the first time.

17. What languages are spoken?

The main working languages are:

• English
• Danish
• Greenlandic

Inuksuk has emphasized translating procedures and work instructions into Greenlandic to support inclusiveness and training.

18. What should I know about the Arctic environment?

The Arctic environment requires respect and preparation:

• Weather can change quickly
• Temperatures can become extreme
• Wildlife safety rules may apply
• Environmental protection is important

Always follow local guidance and safety instructions.

19. What is expected from me as a newcomer?

You are expected to:

• Follow safety procedures
• Respect cultural differences
• Be professional and cooperative
• Ask questions if unsure
• Support your team
• Stay flexible and adaptable

20. What makes Pituffik special?

Pituffik is more than a workplace.

For many people, it becomes:

• A professional milestone
• An Arctic life experience
• A place of strong friendships
• A journey of personal development
• A chance to contribute to Greenland and the Arctic

What to Expect When Traveling to the Base

Traveling to Pituffik Space Base is very different from ordinary business travel. Due to the remote Arctic location, military environment, weather conditions, and security requirements, all personnel go through a structured onboarding and arrival process before beginning work on the base.

Whether you travel from Nuuk, Copenhagen, or another location, the goal of onboarding is to ensure that all employees arrive safely, are properly prepared, and understand the rules, responsibilities, and conditions of working in the High Arctic.

Before Departure

Before traveling to Pituffik, employees normally complete several onboarding steps coordinated between HR, supervisors, logistics personnel, and the base administration.

This may include:

• Employment documentation
• Travel coordination
• Base access approval
• Medical and health requirements
• Security processing
• PPE and clothing guidance
• Work-related certifications
• IT and communication setup
• Emergency contact registration

Employees will also receive practical information about:

• Arctic weather conditions
• Packing recommendations
• Transportation schedules
• Housing arrangements
• Base rules and expectations

Travel Through Nuuk

Many Greenland-based employees travel through Nuuk before departure to Pituffik.

In Nuuk, onboarding may include:

• Final HR processing
• Equipment handover
• Safety briefings
• Travel documentation checks
• Coordination meetings
• Introduction to company procedures
• Issuing of workwear or Arctic gear

For new employees, Nuuk may also serve as the first introduction to the organization and the people they will work with.

Travel Through Copenhagen

Some employees and contractors travel through Copenhagen before continuing to Greenland and Pituffik.

In Copenhagen, the process may include:

• International travel coordination
• Medical documentation verification
• Security or travel briefings
• Transit coordination with Greenland flights
• Equipment and baggage handling
• Final travel approvals

Because Arctic travel is weather-dependent, flexibility and patience are often necessary.

Arrival in Greenland

Depending on travel schedules and weather conditions, employees may stay temporarily in Nuuk or another transit location before continuing north.

During this period, personnel may receive:

• updated flight information
• weather and operational briefings
• accommodation instructions
• additional onboarding information

Travel to Pituffik is carefully coordinated due to limited flight schedules and operational requirements.

Arrival at Pituffik Space Base

Upon arrival at Pituffik, personnel normally go through a formal arrival and reception process.

This often includes:

• identity verification
• access registration
• transportation to housing
• check-in procedures
• room assignment
• meal and facility orientation
• emergency information
• introduction to supervisors and departments

New arrivals are also informed about:

• local rules
• safety requirements
• restricted areas
• working hours
• transportation procedures
• emergency alarms and response procedures

Safety & Security Briefings

All personnel are expected to complete required safety and security briefings.

Topics may include:

• workplace safety
• environmental rules
• emergency procedures
• fire safety
• Arctic weather precautions
• reporting procedures
• cybersecurity awareness
• photography and social media restrictions
• PPE requirements

Safety and operational discipline are extremely important due to the remote Arctic environment.

Housing & Daily Life

Pituffik functions as a small Arctic community. During onboarding, employees are introduced to daily life on the base, including:

• accommodation facilities
• dining hall
• recreation areas
• gym and common areas
• laundry facilities
• transportation arrangements
• internet and communication access

Personnel are expected to show respect for shared living spaces and colleagues from many different nationalities and professional backgrounds.

Starting Work

Before beginning regular duties, employees typically:

• meet their supervisor and team
• review job responsibilities
• receive local work instructions
• complete department-specific training
• review safety procedures
• receive equipment and tools if needed

Some positions may require additional certifications or access permissions before work can begin.

Living and Working in the Arctic

Working at Pituffik is not only a job assignment — it is also an experience of living and working in one of the world’s most remote environments.

Employees are encouraged to:

• support one another
• communicate openly
• follow procedures carefully
• stay aware of Arctic conditions
• ask questions when uncertain
• maintain professionalism at all times

Preparation, teamwork, and responsibility are essential parts of everyday life at Pituffik Space Base.

Security Responsibilities for Employees and Contractors at Pituffik Space Base

Working at Pituffik Space Base means operating in a unique Arctic environment with high standards for safety, professionalism, and security. All employees, contractors, apprentices, and visitors are expected to contribute to maintaining a safe, secure, and professional workplace.

Security is not only the responsibility of Security Forces or management — it is a shared responsibility for everyone working on the base.

Why Base Security Matters

Pituffik Space Base supports critical Arctic operations and infrastructure. Because of its remote location and strategic importance, all personnel must follow security procedures carefully.

Good security practices help protect:

• personnel
• facilities
• equipment
• operational continuity
• sensitive information
• transportation and logistics
• emergency preparedness

Access & Identification

All personnel must:

• Carry valid identification when required
• Follow all access control procedures
• Use only approved access points
• Never share badges, passes, or credentials
• Report lost IDs or access cards immediately

Access to certain buildings or operational areas may be restricted depending on work responsibilities.

Visitors & Unauthorized Access

Employees must:

• Never allow unauthorized persons into restricted areas
• Escort visitors when required
• Report suspicious behavior immediately
• Follow all instructions from Security Forces and supervisors

Unauthorized access to operational or restricted areas is taken seriously.

Photography & Social Media

Photography, video recording, and drone use may be restricted in certain areas of the base.

Personnel must:

• Follow all photography rules
• Never photograph restricted facilities or equipment
• Avoid sharing sensitive operational information online
• Use good judgment on social media

Even small details shared publicly can create security concerns.

IT & Cybersecurity

All employees are responsible for protecting digital systems and information.

Employees must:

• Keep passwords secure
• Lock computers when unattended
• Use approved devices and systems only
• Report suspicious emails or cyber incidents
• Follow company and base IT policies

Cybersecurity is an important part of modern base security.

Workplace Safety & Reporting

Security also includes workplace safety and awareness.

Employees are expected to:

• Follow safety procedures
• Use required PPE
• Report unsafe conditions
• Report accidents, incidents, or near misses
• Participate in safety training and briefings

If something does not look right — report it.

Emergency Situations

In emergency situations, employees must:

• Stay calm
• Follow instructions from supervisors and emergency personnel
• Follow evacuation procedures
• Report to designated assembly points when required
• Never interfere with emergency operations

Because Pituffik is located in a remote Arctic environment, preparedness and discipline are extremely important.

Alcohol, Drugs & Conduct

Professional conduct is expected at all times.

Employees must:

• Follow company and base policies regarding alcohol and substances
• Never report to work impaired
• Respect colleagues, supervisors, and security personnel
• Follow all local rules and regulations

Maintaining a professional environment is essential for safety and operations.

Arctic Conditions Require Awareness

The Arctic environment creates additional risks and responsibilities.

Employees should always be aware of:

• weather conditions
• ice and snow hazards
• limited daylight periods
• vehicle safety
• cold-weather exposure
• emergency communication procedures

Preparation and awareness are part of everyday life at Pituffik.

Security Is Everyone’s Responsibility

At Pituffik Space Base, security depends on teamwork, professionalism, and personal responsibility.

Every employee contributes to:

• a safe workplace
• operational reliability
• protection of personnel and infrastructure
• emergency readiness
• a professional working culture

By following procedures and looking out for one another, we help maintain a safe and secure environment for everyone working and living at Pituffik Space Base.