Assayer Lab Technician

Summary:

Average Education: Bachelors

Assayers play a vital role in the mining industry by analyzing ores, metals, and minerals in a laboratory. Assayers are often used to determine if a potential mining site is viable.They are responsible for using chemicals and determining the value of various minerals. They also perform statistical analyses.

In general, people are drawn to a career in the mining industry for the rewarding work, as well as the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. The compensation is attractive as is the structured work schedule which allows for personal pursuits and professional development.

Someone who works as an Assayer makes a meaningful contribution to mine performance. Working in a laboratory, an Assayer enjoys a clean and predictable environment with many opportunities to collaborate and interact with a variety of professionals.

Compensation:

Average Salary: $46,000 - $75,000

Inspect, grade, sample, test or refine raw and processed materials, analyzing for substances such as metals, non-metallic materials, concentrates, and waste and air samples
Use spectrographic analysis, chemical solutions, and specialized equipment
Adjust methods of analysis
Receive samples of raw and processed materials from the mine or mill
Advise Supervisor or colleagues of issues and communicate with Engineers, Metallurgists, Hydrologists, skilled tradespeople and Mill Management
Complete inspection and test reports
May assist in environmental audits and the development of waste management and related environmental protection procedures
Maintain analysis equipment

What is it like to work in this field?:

As an Assayer, you will work in a laboratory near the mine or mill. You will spend the majority of your time analyzing samples. In a laboratory, you will stand up for the majority of your shift and you have to follow strict safety regulations because of hazardous materials that are sometimes used. As an Assayer, you may have to work under pressure to produce results promptly to support the efforts of mine crews to maximize output. Handling supplies and substances involves light duty lifting.

Safety is the top priority in the mining industry and employers take every precaution to create a safe workplace. All mine employees observe strict health and safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (e.g. safety glasses, respirator, steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear protection, etc.). This equipment also reduces the risks that come with exposure to various environmental conditions, extreme temperatures and hazards.

Working hours vary considerably from mine to mine. You might have standard weekday working hours or shift work that involves evening and/or weekend work. Overtime is generally not required but you may have opportunities to work overtime in return for extra compensation.

Some mines are located near communities, which would enable you to live at home and commute to work. These mining communities tend to be close-knit, with strong friendships forming among co-workers and their families. Because these communities are often small towns, they provide wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and hiking.

Success Profile:

Common traits that successful Assayers share are:

Ability to share opinions and findings with others, even when they are unfavourable
Ability to stay focused
Accountable for decisions and actions
Analytical
Aptitude for scientific inquiry
Embraces new technology
Fine motor skills
Methodical, consistent and neat
Patient
Precise and accurate
Willing to engage in continuous learning and skills development
Works well with others

Many of these traits can be developed. If you are interested in following this career path, first determine your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals in order to develop the traits you need to succeed.

Job Entry Requirements:

Note: this table reflects what is required at the time of hire. The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements