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 required
Setting up of Fire Assay Laboratory
· Assist with the set-up of laboratory, prepare the SOPs for Fire Assay techniques.
Measurement & 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
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.
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.
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.
Laboratory Housekeeping
· Ensure and maintain work areas and equipment are clean, tidy and organised.
Manpower Planning
· Assist with overtime planning in consultation with the Lab Manager.
· Assist with control and time keeping administration.
· Maintain productivity and turnaround time.
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.
Job Requirement
Educational & Professional Qualifications
· Minimum Diploma qualification in Chemistry or its related field.
Relevant Experience
· At least 3 years’ experience as a Fire Assayer.
· Demonstrated understanding of the analytical processes in Fire Assay and the analysis process.
· Problem solving skills.
· Have experience in selecting and setting up of equipment and processes to recover precious metals including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium is an advantage.
· Possess experience and the ability to operate ICP / XRF is an advantage.
· Must be willing to work overtime whenever necessary.
· Knowledge in safe handling of industrial chemicals.
· Possess effective verbal and written communication skills.