Heavy Mineral Technician Job Penicuik area,Easter Howgate Scotland UK,Science

Location: Easter Howgate

Role

Title:

Heavy Mineral Technician

Grade and Salary:Grade 7 - £38,448 - £48,337 per annum

FTE and working pattern:Full-time (35hrs per week) Fixed term for 12 months

Reward and Benefits:33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days for all full-time staff.

Detailed Description

We are seeking a Heavy Mineral Technician to support geological research through the preparation and processing of rock and sediment samples in our mineral separation laboratory at Heriot-Watt University.

The successful candidate will carry out sample preparation, separate heavy minerals for subsequent analysis, and support the day-to-day operation of the laboratory. The role requires a careful, methodical approach, strong organisational skills and a commitment to safe laboratory working.

Applicants should hold a BSc in geoscience or a related scientific discipline that includes practical laboratory work. Training will be provided in specialist mineral separation techniques and the completion and use of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessment forms.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

Receive, label, catalogue and store geological samples, maintaining accurate records throughout processing.
Prepare rock and sediment samples using appropriate methods, including drying, disaggregation, crushing and sieving.
Separate and recover heavy mineral fractions using heavy-liquid and magnetic separation techniques, following training and approved procedures.
Use a microscope to examine mineral separates and pick grains where required.
Prepare, label and store mineral fractions for subsequent mineralogical and geochronological analysis.
Maintain detailed records of processing methods, sample weights, mineral yields and any deviations from standard procedures.
Prevent cross-contamination through careful sample handling and thorough cleaning of equipment.
Handle, store and dispose of chemicals and laboratory waste in accordance with approved procedures.
Assist with preparing and updating COSHH forms, risk assessments and laboratory procedures, with appropriate training and supervision.
Undertake routine equipment checks, maintain laboratory cleanliness and report faults or safety concerns.
Monitor consumables and chemical stocks, identifying replenishment needs.
Coordinate sample-processing priorities with researchers and technical staff to meet project deadlines.

Person Specification Essential

A BSc in geology, geoscience, mineralogy, chemistry or a related scientific discipline, including practical laboratory training.

Practical experience of laboratory work gained through a degree, research project or employment.

An understanding of safe laboratory practice, including the importance of chemical safety, appropriate protective equipment and following risk assessments.

Ability to follow detailed procedures accurately and maintain consistent standards during repetitive sample-processing tasks.

Strong attention to detail, particularly in sample labelling, record keeping and contamination prevention.

Good organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple samples at different processing stages.

Confidence using spreadsheets and digital systems to maintain laboratory records.

Ability to work independently following training, recognise problems and seek guidance when required.

Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively with researchers, students and technical colleagues.

Willingness to undertake training in mineral separation methods, COSHH assessments and equipment operation.

Desirable

Experience working in a geological or mineral separation laboratory.

Experience preparing rock or sediment samples, including crushing, disaggregation or sieving.

Familiarity with…