Are you a disciplined and experienced Lab Tech looking to apply your expertise in a high-stakes gold production environment? Our client, a reputable mining company, is seeking a Laboratory Technician Assistant with a minimum of 3 years of experience in gold mining operations. This role is designed for a professional who understands the nuances of gold recovery and is ready to provide critical technical support to the metallurgical team through precise testing and process monitoring.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Chegutu
- Category: Mining
- Closing Date: 2026-05-30
Key Responsibilities
- Gold Analysis & Testing: Perform routine and non-routine laboratory tests, including fire assays, cyanide leach tests, and carbon activity testing.
- Process Monitoring: Regularly monitor and record plant parameters (pH levels, dissolved oxygen, cyanide concentrations) to ensure optimal gold recovery.
- Sample Management: Oversee the collection, preparation (crushing, pulverizing), and systematic tracking of ore and solution samples.
- Data Accuracy: Ensure high precision in data entry and assist in the interpretation of results to identify recovery fluctuations.
- Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily calibrations and basic maintenance of laboratory instrumentation to ensure zero downtime.
- Safety & Compliance: Maintain a clean, hazard-free lab environment, strictly adhering to chemical handling protocols and environmental standards.
Requirements
- Experience: Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in a gold mine laboratory or mineral processing environment.
- Education: Certificate or Diploma in Laboratory Technology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- Technical Skills: Proficient in gold-specific assay techniques and familiar with gravity and CIL/CIP circuits.
- Attention to Detail: Proven ability to maintain accuracy under production pressure.
- Communication: Strong reporting skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with the metallurgical and plant teams.
How to Apply
Send your application to [email protected] with the subject line “Lab Tech Assistant – Mining Industry”. Please include your Professional Summary, Years of Experience, and Industry Specialisations in the email body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Laboratory Technician Assistant in the Zimbabwean gold mining sector?
Most roles require a National Certificate or Diploma in Applied Chemical Technology, Metallurgy, or a related science field from a recognized Zimbabwean institution. Practical experience or an industrial attachment in a laboratory setting, especially within mining, is highly advantageous.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Laboratory Technician Assistant in a gold mine in Zimbabwe?
You'll typically be involved in sample preparation, basic chemical analysis, maintaining lab equipment, and recording data accurately. This includes tasks like crushing, pulverizing, fire assay preparation, and assisting senior technicians with various analytical tests relevant to gold extraction processes.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Laboratory Technician Assistant in the Zimbabwean mining sector?
The work culture often emphasizes safety, adherence to strict protocols, and teamwork due to the hazardous nature of some chemicals and equipment. Expect long shifts, sometimes rotational, and a strong focus on punctuality, reliability, and precision in your work.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Laboratory Technician Assistant in the Zimbabwean gold mining industry?
With further education, experience, and good performance, you can progress to a Laboratory Technician, Senior Laboratory Technician, or even a Metallurgical Technician. Opportunities for specialization in different analytical techniques or supervisory roles may also arise over time.
What typical benefits can I expect as a full-time Laboratory Technician Assistant in the Zimbabwean mining sector?
Full-time employees typically receive benefits such as medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave, in line with Zimbabwean labor laws. Some mining operations may also offer housing assistance, transport, or subsidized meals, especially in remote areas.
How should I apply for this role in Zimbabwe, and what do employers typically look for?
Submit a well-structured CV and cover letter highlighting relevant qualifications, practical experience, and a strong commitment to safety and precision. Employers value candidates with a proactive attitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a demanding environment.