Senior Laboratory Technician (Geomaterials & Petrology)
Company: Petrolab Ltd
Location: Redruth, Cornwall, UK
Salary: £28,000 - £34,000 per annum (Full-time 37.5 hours)
About the Role
Petrolab is a leading mineral and geomaterials consultancy providing specialised support to the global mining, minerals processing, and construction industries. We are seeking an experienced Senior Laboratory Technician to join our technical team in Redruth.
In this role, you will provide critical technical support for petrological and mineralogical consultancy projects. You will be responsible for the high-precision preparation of geological and structural material samples, ensuring all outputs meet the rigorous standards required for international mineral resource analysis and evaluation.
Core Duties & Responsibilities
Precision Sample Preparation: Execute technical preparation of minerals, rocks, and concrete samples, including specialized cutting, crushing, grinding, and fine polishing for petrological analysis.
• Section Preparation: Perform high-dexterity tasks in the creation of thin-sections and polished blocks, requiring extreme diligence and technical accuracy.
• Scientific Testing & Analysis: Use laboratory equipment for weighing, sieving, and physical testing of geomaterials to support interpretative reporting.
• Sample Management & Custody: Oversee the routine handling, recording, and secure storage of incoming/outgoing international mineral samples, maintaining a clear audit trail.
• Laboratory Administration: Maintain laboratory equipment, ensure calibration standards are met, and manage stock control for specialized consumables.
• Safety & Compliance: Adhere to strict health and safety protocols regarding manual handling of heavy geological samples and the use of industrial preparation machinery.
Candidates must possess:
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of related on-the-job experience in a materials testing or similar testing laboratory, including the preparation of thin-sections.
• Technical Aptitude: Proven experience in geological or construction material sample preparation (e.g., concrete or mineral processing).
Benefits
Petrolab supports the professional development and personal growth of its staff with comprehensive training and a range of benefits:
• Competitive salary £34,000 (subject to experience).
• 33 days holiday (including bank holidays).
• Employer contributory pension.
• Private health insurance (Private medical).