Laboratory Assistant

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.

When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. 

ALS Minerals are hiring candidates to work in the well-equipped Fire Assay Department at our state-of-the-art Geochemistry Laboratory in Loughrea, Co. Galway, our Hub laboratory for a vast region that includes Europe, Africa and Middle East.

We are currently hiring our Weekend Shift

Fire Assay is a process for the analysis of precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum and palladium in samples of rocks, ores and minerals.

Responsibilities:

• Mixing a portion of finely pulverised sample with assay flux in clay crucibles.

• Fusing the above mixture in a fusion furnace at approximately 1100 C and pouring the melt into cast iron moulds.

• Retrieving solidified melt and retrieving a lead button.

• Ensuring the lead button is free from impurities

• Cupellation of the lead button in a cupellation furnace at approximately 950 С to oxidise and remove the lead by absorption in the cupel so that only a small prill remains containing all precious metals extracted from the original sample.

• Sending the prill for weighing or digestion before instrumental analysis.

Before samples are analysed in Fire Assay they are weighed.

Weighing Responsibilities:

• Check and maintain order of the samples being processed and sample’s identification.

• Handle the samples to preserve their identification and prevent their loss, contamination or confusion.

• Check method, all notes on Worksheet and follow direction when it is added.

• Weigh samples according to SOP.

• Fill in appropriate forms and worksheets and sign/initial records.

• Always operate equipment according to instructions/manuals and follow safety rules. Keep equipment and workplace clean. When work is finished, tidy up the work area.

The product of the Fire Assay Lead Collection procedure is silver and precious metals prills. Gold, silver or both are determined either by instrumental analysis or gravimetrically on the principle of "Parting" silver from precious metals in a prill using dilute nitric acid.

• After the Fire Assay process the prill is digested using various acids and sent to the lab for analysis.

• It is the responsibility of the technician performing any fire assay duties (weighing or sample digest) to understand all the procedures associated with the method.

• Ensure equipment used is properly calibrated

• Maintain sample order during all processes. As there are numerous manual handling processes involved in this procedure it is critical that all efforts are made to ensure correct sample order is retained.

• Handle prills with care and ensure they are not "lost" during any of the dissolution, decanting, washing or other handling processes.

• Inform their supervisor if problems are encountered

Requirements:

• This is an entry level position and previous laboratory experience, while being a bonus, is not required. All necessary training and instructions will be provided.

• Good numerical, communication, organisational and time management skills

• Good physical fitness and ability to undertake shift work if required. ·

• Ability to follow written procedures and be detail oriented, highly motivated, and able to work independently as well as a part of the team

• A high regard for personal safety and the safety of others

• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines

• The ability to work in a hot, manual intensive work environment

• To be flexible and reliable to meet the high demands of the department

What we Offer:

• Competitive salary progression with additional premiums for working overtime and for work on evening / night and weekends shifts.

• Free onsite parking

• Access to the Company Employee Assistance Program

• Initial contract is 12 months in duration, but will be extended if the candidate is successful in the role.

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the different strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognized and valued.

Training:

• Training on day shift (7:30-16:00, for a week to 2 weeks)

Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. 

At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. 

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request. 

Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.