Lab Technician in Eureka, Nevada at McEwen Mining Inc

Position Overview:

The Lab Technician at McEwen Mining Inc.’s Gold Bar operation supports safe, efficient, and accurate laboratory operations at a remote Nevada gold mine. This hands-on role is essential to daily production and ensures that samples and analytical results are processed accurately and efficiently.

Working in a fast-paced laboratory environment, the Lab Technician performs sample preparation, analytical testing, equipment operation, and data entry, while maintaining strict adherence to safety, environmental, and operational standards. The role plays a key part in supporting mine operations by delivering reliable laboratory data used for production monitoring and metallurgical analysis.

Key Responsibilities:

● Sample Preparation and Analysis ●
- Prepare blasthole samples for assay and process cyanide samples according to laboratory schedules.
- Perform fire assays and assist with additional analytical testing as required.
- Receive, log, and process plant solution and carbon samples.
- Maintain accurate sample tracking and documentation within the laboratory system.

● Laboratory Operations ●
- Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
- Conduct routine equipment inspections and basic troubleshooting to ensure reliable performance.
- Maintain accurate records of production targets, schedules, and laboratory results.

● Data Management and Reporting ●
- Scan and log samples into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Create and manage sample jobs within the LIMS database.
- Complete routine administrative documentation and laboratory reporting tasks.

● Safety and Compliance ●
- Safely handle hazardous chemicals and reagents in accordance with SOPs and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free laboratory environment.
- Participate in daily operational meetings and safety discussions.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, efficiency, and data quality.

Qualifications:

- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a mining or commercial laboratory preferred.
- Experience with chemical handling and laboratory procedures preferred.
- Experience operating or troubleshooting AA (Atomic Absorption) and LECO instruments preferred.
- Proficiency with wet lab techniques, including pipetting, solution preparation, and dilutions.
- Basic math skills, including calculating dilution factors and solution concentrations.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or similar systems.
- Valid driver’s license required.

● Skills and Attributes ●
- Strong organizational skills to manage high sample volumes efficiently.
- Ability to multitask and monitor multiple assays simultaneously.
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
- Positive attitude with a strong work ethic and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Adaptability to change priorities in a production-driven environment.

Work Environment / Physical Demands:

● This position operates in a remote, rural mining environment and requires working 10–12 hour shifts, which may include days, nights, weekends, and holidays depending on operational needs.
- Extended periods of standing and walking.
- Frequent climbing of ladders and stairs.
- Moderate to heavy lifting up to 50 lbs.
- Repetitive motions including bending, kneeling, and stooping.
- Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including respirators for certain tasks.
- Potential exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, and varying weather conditions.

Benefits/Culture:

● At McEwen Mining, our employees are key to our success. We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth