Laboratory Operator

  • Augusta (Richmond County)
  • Permanent
  • Full-time

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Introduction

Aurubis – metallurgy is our passion. We are a leading global multi-metal company and one of the largest copper recyclers worldwide. We process complex metal concentrates, scrap metals, and metal-bearing recycling materials into metals of the highest purity. These metals serve as the basis for key megatrends such as digitalization, renewable energies, e-mobility, and urbanization. Aurubis has about 7,100 employees, production sites in Europe and the US, and an extensive worldwide distribution system. Join our team and promote progress together with us!

Job Summary:

The full-time position of an onsite LABORATORY OPERATOR reports to the Laboratory Team Lead and conducts a wide range of laboratory tests, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment, and ensure that the laboratory adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. The Laboratory Operator is responsible for producing accurate and reliable test results that can be used by other members of the organization for research, quality control, or regulatory compliance purposes. Additionally, the Laboratory Operator plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and safety of the laboratory environment and ensuring that it operates efficiently and effectively. Overall, the purpose of the role is to contribute to the success of the organization by supporting its laboratory operations and producing high-quality data in Aurubis Richmond. The successful candidate will have a passion and proven experience record for laboratory work, be able to work independently and as part of a team and be committed to producing high-quality data.

 

The position’s focus is to perform laboratory tests and operate laboratory equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures and ensuring that laboratory results are of high quality and accuracy. The goal is to support the laboratory's research objectives by providing reliable and accurate laboratory results in a safe and compliant environment. This role supports the Sample Preparation and Laboratory Manager in establishing operational excellence in Aurubis Richmond.

Laboratory Operator

Your Tasks

Responsibilities 

  • Conduct laboratory tests in accordance with standard operating procedures.
  • Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, spectrophotometers, and centrifuges.
  • Perform routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
  • Prepare and analyze samples using a variety of techniques and instrumentation.
  • Record and maintain accurate laboratory records, including test results, equipment maintenance, and calibration records.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during testing.
  • Ensure laboratory safety protocols and regulations are adhered to at all times.
  • Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment, and reorder when necessary.
  • Collaborate with other laboratory personnel to ensure efficient laboratory operations.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to ensure smooth and efficient laboratory operations.
  • Coordinate with other departments to ensure timely and accurate reporting of laboratory results.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to laboratory colleagues to facilitate their professional development.
  • Identify areas for process improvement and develop and implement plans for improvement.
  • Participate in laboratory research activities, including designing experiments and interpreting results
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation of laboratory operations, also in corresponding IT-systems.
  • Professionally correct execution of laboratory analysis, including operating laboratory equipment.
  • Operating laboratory equipment includes tasks such as but not limited to sample preparation, calibration, conducting analysis.
  • The operation also includes cleaning and, if necessary, simple maintenance work. The employee usually performs his tasks according to clear instructions.
  • Prepare sample bags for shipping.
  • Securing separation of different batches to always avoid contaminations.
  • Performing basic calculations on different contents of materials.
  • Executing stock taking activities in respective areas of responsibility.
  • Professionally handling of claim management.
  • Complying with company instructions e.g., on health & safety, environmental protection.
  • Complying with company rules and regulations.
  • Economic behavior about material and time expenditure.
  • Provision of work equipment.
  • Preparing workstations for e.g., maintenance (tasks).
  • Knowing and understanding the processes and procedures in the direct field of activity
  • Assuring quality and actively participating in continuous improvement programs.
  • Proactive exchange of information with peers and superiors (e.g., on process/condition of aggregates).

Your Profile

Requirements:

  • At least 3 years of laboratory experience, ideally in a non-ferrous metallurgical environment.
  • Experience with laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.
  • Strong technical expertise in laboratory procedures and protocols
  • Demonstrated ability to work in and through teams at all levels of the workforce.
  • Proven work experience in calibrating and operating laboratory equipment ideally in an international environment.
  • Basic understanding of processes within analyzing metal containing materials.
  • Basic computer skills (business system, email, Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Solid knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices in the workplace.
  • Solid knowledge of environmental protection, occupational safety, and labor law standards.
  • If filled with an internal current employee of Aurubis, individual must be willing to relocate to the US for a minimum of three (3) years with a possibility of extension upon approval, if needed.
  • Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements, such as those from the FDA, EPA, or OSHA, as well as experience in maintaining compliance with these requirements.
  • Familiarity with current DOT and OSHA regulations is a must.

We Offer

  • 401(k) with company match
  • Dental Insurance
  • Health Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • STD
  • LTD
  • Competitive Vacation Plan
  • ...and more!

Interested?

Aurubis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to national or ethnic origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or other characteristics protected by law.

What does Aurubis stand for? Take a look here!

Aurubis considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law.