Job Description
The Laboratory Technician (Fire Assay) will assist with the day-to-day running of the laboratory for precious metals testing. 1. Sample Preparation- Receive and label all samples brought into the lab for accountability. - Prepare samples from drying, crushing, splitting and pulverising.- Mix fluxing reagents and load samples in furnace for the fire assay.- Mix reagents for acid digestions.- Perform fire assay techniques such as fluxing, fusing and cupellation of samples in correct numerical order. - Perform smelting and sample extraction of precious metals as and when required2. Setting up of Fire Assay Laboratory- Assist with the set-up of laboratory, prepare the SOPs for Fire Assay techniques. 3.Measurement and Calibration- Monitor analytical processes and take remedial action where deviations / discrepancies arise impacting on the quality of analytical results.- Report any apparatus or equipment which, to your knowledge, is not functioning correctly to the Lab Manager 4. Perform Laboratory Data Analysis and Reporting- Testing of precious metals scraps through cupellation method (fire assaying).- Evaluate, validate, ensure and report technical accuracy of reporting analytical results.- Monitor analytical processes and take remedial actions where deviations / discrepancies arise impacting the quality of analytical results.- Re-analyse analysis samples when control results are not within the acceptable range. 5. Quality Control- Inspect samples, fusions, lead buttons and prills to ensure the assaying method is correct.- Maintain records and accountability of materials (samples and standards) and equipment used. 6. Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting- Report any apparatus or equipment which, to your knowledge, is not functioning correctly to the Lab manager- Procurement and placement of all consumables, equipment and fixtures. - Assist in the general / preventive maintenance of equipment and housekeeping of the laboratory.- Maintain and record equipment faults.- Troubleshooting of analysis methods.7. Laboratory Housekeeping - Ensure and maintain work areas and equipment are clean, tidy and organised.8. Manpower Planning- Assist with overtime planning in consultation with the Lab Manager.- Assist with control and time keeping administration.- Maintain productivity and turnaround time.9. Compliance with Safety Protocols and Local Regulatory - Assist with the application and maintenance of all necessary governmental licenses related to the laboratory. (Eg: DoE, DOSH, BOMBA, Poison Act etc.)- Promote and implement workplace safety initiatives- Ensure and maintain proper sample disposal of cupels, fire assay lead wastes or water generated as a part of daily work performed in a safe manner and in compliance with the disposal regulations and requirements. - React appropriately and immediately to emergency situations and assists other employees in maintaining readiness to respond to emergencies within the workplace.