Fire Assay Technician

Fire Assay / Wet Lab Technician position preparing samples and conducting laboratory tests in a metallurgical and chemical testing environment.

About the role

This role operates a range of laboratory equipment, performs hand titrations and measurements, maintains accurate records and logs, and supports ongoing test work while consistently following health and safety procedures and maintaining a clean, organized work area.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples for fire assay and wet laboratory analyses according to established procedures and specific directions.
• Operate laboratory equipment including grinding ball mills, gravity and flotation machines, balances, pH meters, and related instruments.
• Perform hand titrations using various chemicals and record results accurately.
• Take pH and redox measurements for existing tests and document findings in daily logs.
• Wash, rinse, and maintain glassware, pans, and other lab vessels to ensure readiness for testing.
• Maintain detailed daily records and logs of tests, sample preparation, and equipment usage without constant supervision.
• Follow all health and safety rules and regulations at all times while working with laboratory equipment and chemicals.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work area in the column lab and wet lab.
• Perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment within assigned scope and abilities.
• Load and unload ball mills, column test charges, and other equipment with materials weighing up to 50 pounds repetitively.
• Safely perform work using chemicals such as sodium cyanide (NaCN), sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), lime, and other reagents.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors both orally and in writing regarding test procedures, results, and issues.
• Collaborate with others in a team environment to meet production and quality goals.
• Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and quality standards.
• Perform other related laboratory duties as assigned to support test programs and operational needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Ability to follow specific directions and standard operating procedures accurately.
• Capability to work safely in a laboratory environment and adhere to health and safety regulations.
• Ability to perform simple mathematical calculations related to test measurements and data recording.
• Skill in keeping accurate records, logs, and documentation without constant supervision.
• Ability to work effectively with others in a team environment.
• Strong oral and written communication skills for reporting results and discussing procedures.
• Ability to perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment within scope of training and abilities.
• Positive attitude toward safety regulations, production targets, and quality goals.
• Ability to comply with all company policies.
• Physical ability to crawl, kneel, bend, and reach with hands and arms above shoulder level repetitively.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds repetitively.
• Ability to load and unload ball mills and column test charges up to 50 pounds repetitively.
• Capability to safely perform work using chemicals such as NaCN, H₂SO₄, and lime.
• Physical ability to stand, grasp, and perform other types of physical work for extended periods of time.
• Ability to pass a respirator medical evaluation and wear a respirator as required.
• Ability to be clean shaven where the respirator contacts the face to ensure proper fit.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a laboratory environment, particularly in wet chemistry or fire assay, is beneficial.
• Familiarity with laboratory practices in metallurgical testing or chemical analysis is an advantage.
• Understanding of basic laboratory safety protocols when handling chemicals and operating equipment.
• Attention to detail in sample preparation, titrations, and measurement recording.
• Reliability and self-motivation to work with minimal supervision while maintaining high quality standards.

Work Environment

This role is based in a laboratory environment that includes a wet lab and column lab, with regular use of grinding ball mills, gravity and flotation machines, balances, pH meters, and other analytical equipment. Work involves handling chemicals such as sodium cyanide, sulfuric acid, and lime, following strict safety procedures and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, including a respirator when required. The position requires standing, bending, lifting, and performing repetitive physical tasks for extended periods. The workplace emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to safety and quality standards, with a collaborative team culture focused on supporting ongoing testing and production goals.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00 per hour.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental, and vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Schedule

This is a Contract to Hire, fully onsite position based in Sparks, NV.