METALLURGICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:

The Metallurgical Laboratory Technician will be responsible for providing reliable laboratory and sampling support to the Metallurgy Section of the Process Plant. The role will be supporting process monitoring, metallurgical test work, plant surveys, sampling, quality assurance and metallurgical accounting by generating accurate, timely and traceable laboratory data to support safe, stable and efficient plant performance.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Your key accountabilities include:

• Collecting and preparing representative samples from key process streams, including mill feed, cyclone overflow, flotation feed and products, concentrate and tailings, in accordance with approved sampling procedures.
• Conducting routine metallurgical laboratory testing, including particle size distribution (PSD), moisture content, density, % solids, and other tests required for process monitoring and metallurgical investigations.
• Supporting metallurgical test work programmes, plant surveys and process investigations by preparing samples, executing test procedures, recording results and maintaining sample traceability.
• Supporting metallurgical accounting and process reconciliation activities by ensuring laboratory results are accurate, complete, timely and appropriately documented.
• Performing laboratory QA/QC activities, including preparation and use of duplicates, standards, blanks and control samples where applicable, and promptly identify and escalate anomalous or unreliable results.
• Operating, calibrating, maintaining and verifying laboratory equipment and instruments in accordance with approved procedures and manufacturer requirements, and report equipment defects or abnormal performance.
• Maintaining adequate laboratory housekeeping, reagents, consumables, sample storage and waste disposal arrangements to ensure the laboratory remains safe, organised and fit for purpose.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE:

• Diploma in Metallurgy, Mineral Processing, Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry or a related discipline.
• Additional training or certification in laboratory methods, sampling, QA/QC or mineral processing will be advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in a metallurgical, mineral processing, analytical or mining laboratory environment.
• Practical experience in mineral processing sampling, sample preparation and laboratory testing is preferred.
• Experience working in an operating processing plant environment will be advantageous.