Laboratory Technician

LAB TECHNICIAN

Company: Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC

Department: Operations

Location: Corporate HQ – Desert Center, CA

Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To

Mine Operations Manager

Position Summary

Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC is seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Lab Technician to support our Gold & Iron Division, specializing in mineral analysis and aggregate testing. This position is crucial in ensuring the quality and efficiency of our tailings recycling operations and mineral recovery processes. The Lab Technician will be responsible for preparing samples, conducting detailed testing on raw and processed materials, and providing accurate data to guide operational decisions.

This role requires extensive knowledge of testing methodologies, lab equipment, and safety protocols. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in laboratory practices, an understanding of mineralogical testing, and the physical capability to handle large and heavy samples regularly. The position offers an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic, fast-paced mining environment where precision and attention to detail are critical to success.

The Lab Technician will work closely with cross-functional teams, including process plant operators and management, to ensure timely and accurate reporting of material properties and analysis. This role is integral to our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Sample Collection & Preparation:

• Collect mineral and aggregate samples from various site locations, ensuring proper labeling and documentation for traceability.
• Prepare samples for testing by crushing, splitting, sieving, and other required methods, ensuring uniformity and consistency for accurate results.
• Safely handle, transport, and process samples, which may weigh up to 60 lbs or more, adhering to proper lifting techniques and safety protocols.

Material Testing & Analysis:

• Conduct detailed laboratory testing on raw and processed materials to determine key characteristics, including:
• Metals Analysis: Perform precise assays to detect and measure the concentration of gold, iron, and other valuable minerals.
• Gradation Testing: Analyze particle size distribution to ensure compliance with project specifications.
• Physical Properties Testing: Evaluate material density, moisture content, and other physical attributes critical to operational decisions.
• Utilize advanced laboratory equipment, including spectrometers, sieves, scales, and moisture analyzers, ensuring proper calibration and maintenance.

Data Management & Reporting:

• Accurately record and analyze test results, maintaining detailed documentation for internal use and external reporting as required.
• Generate comprehensive reports to communicate findings to operations managers and other stakeholders.
• Identify trends, deviations, or anomalies in testing data and collaborate with the management team to address potential issues proactively.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance:

• Operate laboratory instruments and ensure regular maintenance and calibration to maintain accuracy and reliability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor technical issues with lab equipment, coordinating with external service providers for more complex repairs.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment by adhering to established housekeeping and maintenance standards.

Collaboration with Process Plant Operations:

• Work closely with plant operators to align laboratory findings with production goals, providing actionable insights to improve efficiency and recovery rates.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives, offering technical expertise to enhance mineral recovery and optimize plant performance.

Safety & Compliance:

• Adhere to strict safety standards, wearing all required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety goggles, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal regulations regarding laboratory procedures, hazardous material handling, and waste disposal.
• Actively participate in safety meetings and training sessions to stay informed on best practices and company safety protocols.

Requirements

Qualifications/Knowledge/Critical Skills

Required:

• Associate’s degree in Chemistry, Geology, or a related scientific field. A Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry is preferred. Equivalent experience in a laboratory setting may be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in laboratory testing, preferably within the mining, aggregate, or mineral processing industries.
• Strong knowledge of mineral sampling procedures, testing methodologies, and laboratory best practices.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, including spectrometers, scales, and sieves.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for technical reporting and collaboration.
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work under minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
• Physical ability to lift and handle heavy samples (up to 60 lbs or greater) regularly and work in physically demanding environments.

Preferred:

• Experience in aggregate testing, tailings recycling, and mineral recovery processes.
• Familiarity with industrial processing plants and equipment.
• MSHA Part 48 certification or willingness to obtain certification upon hire.

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

• Physical Activity: Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, and lift heavy samples. Frequently involved in repetitive tasks, including sieving, weighing, and sample preparation.
• Work Environment: Exposure to a range of conditions, including dust, noise, vibration, and varying temperatures, in both indoor and outdoor settings. May work in confined spaces or at elevated heights during sample collection or equipment maintenance.
• Safety Gear: Mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety goggles, helmets, and steel-toed boots.

Schedule

Shift Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with potential for overtime as operational needs dictate.

Compensation

The Lab Technician position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging between $30.00 to $40.00, depending on experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with employer matching, generous paid time off, holiday pay, and life insurance. Final compensation reflects the candidate’s skills, experience, and qualifications, underscoring our commitment to attracting top talent.

PLEASE NOTE: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required for the role. Duties and responsibilities may change, or additional tasks may be assigned at any time as deemed necessary by management.

Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC is committed to a workplace that fosters diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We ensure equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. If you require any accommodations during the hiring process, please notify us.

Thank you for your interest in opportunities with Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC. We appreciate the enthusiasm and professionalism demonstrated by individuals seeking to join our team.

Please be advised that Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC does not engage with or entertain solicitations from third-party recruiting firms for our hiring needs. We have a dedicated internal recruitment team managing our talent acquisition process. We kindly request that third-party recruitment firms refrain from submitting candidates for our open positions. Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC will not consider or entertain candidates represented by headhunter agencies for our current requisitions. Our commitment to fair and equitable hiring practices includes working directly with candidates who apply through our official channels. We believe in fostering a transparent and direct relationship with potential team members.

We appreciate your understanding and compliance with this policy. If you are interested in joining Aggregate Mineral Resource Group, LLC, please visit our official careers page here: AMRG, LLC | Career Center for a list of our current job opportunities and application instructions.

Salary Description

$30 - $40 / hourly