Fire Assay Lab Technician

McClelland Laboratories, Inc.; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

OSHA safety training

Hazardous materials handling training

First Aid/CPR certification

Job summary

McClelland Laboratories, Inc. in Reno, NV is seeking a Fire Assay Technician to perform laboratory analyses of geological samples using fire assay methods and to document results with high accuracy.

You will prepare samples, operate fusion and cupellation furnaces, record data, and maintain QA/QC and safety standards in a fast-paced laboratory setting. Experience in chemistry or geology is preferred, with attention to detail, good math skills, and the ability to work independently as well as

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree in chemistry, geology, or a related science preferred.
• Previous laboratory or fire assay experience preferred.
• Knowledge of fire assay principles and laboratory procedures is an asset.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with LIMS are beneficial.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations and maintain accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Prepare geological, mining, and metallurgical samples for analysis.
• Weigh and mix samples with appropriate fluxes and reagents.
• Load and operate fusion furnaces and cupellation furnaces.
• Perform fire assay procedures, including fusion, cupellation, and bead recovery.
• Prepare assay beads or prills for further analysis using gravimetric methods or instrumental techniques (e.g., ICP-OES or AAS).
• Record, verify, and report analytical results accurately.
• Calibrate, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Follow laboratory QA and QC procedures.
• Adhere to laboratory safety policies and high-temperature equipment handling protocols.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Assist with inventory management of laboratory supplies and consumables.
• Report equipment malfunctions and participate in routine maintenance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Teamwork

Independent work

Problem solving

Safety focus

LIMS familiarity

Mathematics proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree in chemistry/geology or related science

Tools

Fusion furnace

Cupellation furnace

Bead preparation instruments

ICP-OES

AAS

Laboratory information management systems (LIMS)

Job description

A Fire Assay Technician performs laboratory testing to determine the concentration of precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, in geological, mining, and industrial samples using fire assay methods. The technician prepares samples, operates laboratory equipment, follows strict quality control procedures, and ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare geological, mining, and metallurgical samples for analysis.
• Weigh and mix samples with appropriate fluxes and reagents.
• Load and operate fusion furnaces and cupellation furnaces.
• Perform fire assay procedures, including fusion, cupellation, and bead recovery.
• Prepare assay beads or prills for further analysis using gravimetric methods or instrumental techniques (e.g., ICP-OES or AAS).
• Record, verify, and report analytical results accurately.
• Calibrate, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Follow laboratory quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) procedures.
• Adhere to laboratory safety policies, including proper handling of chemicals and high-temperature equipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Assist with inventory management of laboratory supplies and consumables.
• Report equipment malfunctions and participate in routine maintenance activities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree in chemistry, geology, or a related science preferred.
• Previous laboratory or fire assay experience preferred.
• Knowledge of fire assay principles and laboratory procedures is an asset.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are beneficial.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations and maintain accurate records.

Required Skills

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to follow written procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Commitment to laboratory safety and quality standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds (23 kg).
• Work in environments with high temperatures, dust, and chemical exposure while using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks and manual handling of samples.

Working Conditions

• Laboratory environment with exposure to furnaces, chemicals, and dust.
• Shift work, overtime, weekends, and holidays may be required depending on production schedules.
• Strict adherence to safety, environmental, and quality regulations is essential.

Preferred Certifications

• OSHA or equivalent laboratory safety training.
• Hazardous materials handling training.
• First Aid/CPR certification (preferred).

With experience, Fire Assay Technicians may advance to roles such as: