Senior Field Assistant

SQM AUSTRALIA PTY LTD; Western Australia; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

SQM Australia Pty Ltd is seeking a Senior Field Assistant to join our exploration team across Australia. In this hands-on role you will support planning, sampling, drilling, and field operations while working with geologists, contractors, and field crews in remote and near-mine environments.

You will contribute to data collection, documentation, and safety compliance, and mentor new starters and contractors. Valid drivers licence and First Aid certification are required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Field Assistant or in a similar field-based geoscience role.
• Sound knowledge of geological principles, fieldwork methodologies and exploration techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to work in remote locations and in varying weather conditions.
• Competence in geological logging, mapping and sampling procedures.
• Strong technical communication skills with the ability to produce clear and accurate field reports and documentation.
• Leadership qualities and the capability to guide contractors effectively.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise workload.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
• Current First Aid certification and willingness to maintain relevant safety qualifications.
• Valid driver's licence and ability to travel to remote field locations.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, coordination and execution of field exploration programs, including geological mapping, sampling and drilling support activities.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to new starters and contractors on site procedures, safety protocols and best practices.
• Conduct geological observations, logging and data collection in accordance with project specifications and industry standards.
• Maintain detailed field records, notebooks and documentation to ensure accurate capture of exploration data.
• Support the operation and maintenance of field equipment and instruments, ensuring they are functioning correctly and safely.
• Assist with sample preparation, labelling and chain-of-custody procedures for assay submissions.
• Contribute to health, safety and environmental compliance on site, actively promoting a strong safety culture.
• Liaise with project managers, geologists and other team members to ensure field operations run smoothly and efficiently.
• Conduct site inspections and produce regular reports on field progress and any issues encountered.

Skills

Field experience

Geoscience knowledge

Geological logging

Team leadership

Safety awareness

Independent work

Job description

About the role

As our Senior Field Assistant, you'll play a key hands-on role in delivering exploration programs across Australia, working alongside geologists, contractors and field teams across a variety of remote and near-mine environments. From drilling and sampling through to camp operations, logistics and rehabilitation, no two campaigns will be quite the same.

This is an opportunity for an experienced Field Assistant who enjoys variety, works well in a close-knit team and takes pride in keeping field operations safe, organised and moving forward.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in the planning, coordination and execution of field exploration programs, including geological mapping, sampling and drilling support activities
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to new starters and contractors on site procedures, safety protocols and best practices
• Conduct geological observations, logging and data collection in accordance with project specifications and industry standards
• Maintain detailed field records, notebooks and documentation to ensure accurate capture of exploration data
• Support the operation and maintenance of field equipment and instruments, ensuring they are functioning correctly and safely
• Assist with sample preparation, labelling and chain-of-custody procedures for assay submissions
• Contribute to health, safety and environmental compliance on site, actively promoting a strong safety culture
• Liaise with project managers, geologists and other team members to ensure field operations run smoothly and efficiently
• Conduct site inspections and produce regular reports on field progress and any issues encountered

What we're looking for

• Proven experience as a Field Assistant or in a similar field-based geoscience role, preferably within mineral exploration or mining operations
• Sound knowledge of geological principles, fieldwork methodologies and exploration techniques
• Demonstrated ability to work in remote locations and in varying weather conditions
• Competence in geological logging, mapping and sampling procedures
• Strong technical communication skills with the ability to produce clear and accurate field reports and documentation
• Leadership qualities and the capability to guide contractors effectively
• Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise workload
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively
• Current First Aid certification and willingness to maintain relevant safety qualifications
• Valid driver's licence and ability to travel to remote field locations

What we offer

We offer competitive remuneration and a range of benefits designed to attract and retain talented individuals. Our team benefits from a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture where safety is paramount and contributions are valued. We recognise the importance of work-life balance and strive to create an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.