Sample Preparation Technician (Crushing / Splitting / Pulverizing) in Sohar, Oman

A leading company in the Sultanate of Oman is seeking a skilled Sample Preparation Technician specialized in Crushing, Splitting, and Pulverizing operations to join their team in the vital industrial city of Sohar. This position represents an excellent opportunity for hands-on professionals to join a dynamic work environment where the quality of sample preparation plays a pivotal role in downstream analysis and ultimate assurance.

Job Description & Key Responsibilities

The selected technician will be responsible for the initial and critical stages in the sample analysis chain, upon which the accuracy of all subsequent results depends. Core responsibilities include:

1. Sample Receipt and Logging: Receiving incoming samples (often rock, mineral, or soil-based) from the field or other departments and accurately logging their data into designated systems to ensure full traceability.
2. Primary Crushing Operations: Using appropriate jaw or cone crushers to break down large samples into manageable smaller pieces, while preserving the sample's original characteristics and avoiding contamination.
3. Sample Splitting Operations: Applying systematic splitting techniques (such as rotary sample splitters or the cone and quartering method) to obtain representative sub-samples for analysis or archiving.
4. Final Pulverizing/Grinding Operations: Grinding the split samples into a fine, homogeneous powder using ball or disc mills, ensuring they are suitable for precise chemical and physical analyses (e.g., XRF, ICP, Fire Assay).
5. Quality Assurance and Cleanliness: Strict adherence to Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) protocols, including cleaning equipment between different samples to prevent cross-contamination, and participation in internal reference sample programs.
6. Maintenance and Safety: Performing basic routine maintenance on equipment used (cleaning, lubrication) and full compliance with all occupational health and safety procedures in the lab or workshop, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Qualifications & Key Requirements

To be a successful candidate for this role, you should meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: A diploma in Science (Chemistry, Geology, Environmental Science) or a related engineering field, or a recognized technical certificate in laboratory or mineral processing.
• Practical Experience: Proven hands-on experience of at least 2-3 years in a similar role as a Sample Prep Technician, Laboratory Technician, or in a mineral processing workshop. Direct experience operating crushing, splitting, and pulverizing equipment is a fundamental requirement.
• Technical Skills:
  • Practical knowledge of different crusher types (jaw, cone) and grinding mills.
  • Understanding of sample splitting techniques to obtain a representative sub-sample.
  • Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with high precision.
• Personal Skills: Strong attention to detail, reliability, ability to work independently as part of a team, and a commitment to high safety standards. Good organizational skills to manage sample flow are essential.

Work Location: Sohar, Oman

The position will be based in the Sohar Industrial City, one of Oman's premier industrial hubs, hosting major petrochemical, mining, and manufacturing complexes. The city offers a dynamic working environment with advanced infrastructure.

How to Apply

The company welcomes qualified candidates who meet the above criteria. As the company is advertised as "Confidential," please apply through the official channel where the job was posted (such as the Naukrigulf website or the portal where you found the listing). Ensure you prepare a professional resume in English (Arabic translation is preferred) that highlights:

• Your specific experience in sample preparation.
• The types of equipment you have operated (mention makes or types if possible).
• Any knowledge of laboratory QA/QC and safety protocols.
• Your contact information.

Given the technical nature of the role, the selection process may include a practical skills assessment.