Sample Preparation Operator

About the role

ALS is hiring a Sample Preparation Operator for its Kombat site in Namibia. The lab works 24/7, so the employee must be able to work shifts and flexi hours. The role covers the day-to-day handling of samples before they go to the laboratory, including preparation, quality control checks and tracking.

Key responsibilities

• Follow ALS health and safety standards, company policies, procedures and SOPs, and the company core values.
• Train new staff on sample preparation tasks.
• Monitor prep QC results and report deviations to the Team Leader, and assist with QC and HSE incident investigations.
• Log samples on GEMS, track them to the right laboratory sections and escalate tracking issues.
• Prepare sample rejects in polywoven bags for the warehouse and manage non-sufficient samples (NSS).
• Maintain and update operation logs and accurate QC data on GEMS.
• Adjust settings on Jaw Crushers, Boyd crushers and LM2 Pulverisers, and take corrective and preventative action.
• Help coordinate sample transport between laboratory areas and carry out daily housekeeping.
• Layout samples on drying racks, dry samples in an oven, crush/split samples, screen soil samples, record receiving weights and transfer pulp to sample envelopes.

Required profile

• Grade 12 in Maths and Science (advantageous).
• Fluent written and spoken English.
• Valid vehicle and forklift licence.
• Eligible to work in Namibia: citizen or permanent resident, or able to obtain a valid working visa.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet strict deadlines, prioritise and give accurate feedback on time.

Required skills

• Excellent computer skills in MS Word, Excel and GEMS.
• Good understanding of ALS policies, protocols and sample preparation procedures.
• Ability to identify HSE risks and report them.

To apply, submit an online application with a resume and cover letter.