Eastplats invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the available Laboratory Assistant position within the company’s Laboratory Department. The mining company continues to provide employment opportunities within the mining sector, especially for individuals with laboratory experience and strong technical knowledge in sample preparation and Fire Assay procedures.

Mining and laboratory job seekers in South Africa now have an opportunity to apply for a Laboratory Assistant vacancy at Eastern Platinum Limited, commonly known as Eastplats. The company has officially opened applications for the position and interested candidates are encouraged to submit applications before the closing date.

The latest vacancy offers candidates an opportunity to work within a professional mining laboratory environment while gaining exposure to quality systems, safety procedures, laboratory operations, and mining industry standards. The role is suited for candidates who are capable of working under pressure, maintaining laboratory accuracy, and following strict safety and operational procedures.

Job Overview

The available opportunity is for the position of Laboratory Assistant in the Laboratory Department. The role falls under Job Grade A2 and will require the successful candidate to work on surface at the laboratory.

Vacancy Details

• Position: Laboratory Assistant
• Reference Number: LA20260521
• Department: Laboratory
• Job Grade: A2
• Working Environment: Surface Laboratory Work
• Closing Date: 28 May 2026

The company is searching for candidates who can work efficiently in a demanding environment while maintaining laboratory quality standards and safety procedures.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates interested in the Eastplats Laboratory Assistant vacancy must meet the required qualifications and experience listed by the company. Applications from candidates who do not meet the requirements may not be considered.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must have:

• Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science
• At least 2 years of relevant sample preparation and Fire Assay experience
• Computer literacy skills
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Flexibility and willingness to work shifts
• Ability to work under pressure
• Honesty and reliability
• Understanding of laboratory safety management
• Knowledge of occupational health, safety, and personal hygiene in the mining industry

Eastplats is looking for disciplined and dedicated candidates who understand laboratory procedures and mining industry standards.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The Laboratory Assistant will perform various laboratory and sample preparation activities. The role involves working with samples, operating laboratory equipment, and ensuring that testing procedures are completed correctly and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Performing routine analytical techniques related to sample preparation and Fire Assay procedures
• Receiving, logging, labelling, and filtering samples according to procedures
• Drying, weighing, crushing, splitting, milling, fluxing, and fusion of samples
• Preparing samples for testing using approved methods
• Ensuring turnaround times are met for laboratory analysis
• Disposing of samples according to company procedures
• Replacing gas cylinders when necessary
• Draining effluent tanks
• Conducting analytical quality checks according to standard operating procedures
• Recording repairs, maintenance, calibration, and verification activities
• Performing sieve sizing analysis and reporting
• Conducting weekly milling and crushing efficiency checks
• Cleaning the workplace to prevent sample contamination
• Assisting with productivity documentation after each shift
• Carrying out sampling activities according to procedure
• Ensuring proper shift handover processes

The successful candidate will also be expected to support productivity, laboratory efficiency, and compliance with safety systems.

Physical Requirements

The position requires candidates who are medically fit and capable of working within a mining laboratory environment. Eastplats confirmed that applicants must have good general health and must be able to obtain a certificate of fitness, also known as a red ticket.

Mining laboratory environments often involve exposure to dust, chemicals, heavy materials, and shift work, making physical fitness an important requirement for the role.

Key Performance Areas

Eastplats expects employees to contribute positively to operational goals and workplace safety standards. The Laboratory Assistant will need to demonstrate commitment to company systems, procedures, and performance targets.

Performance Expectations

Key performance areas include:

• Adhering to company systems and procedures
• Following mine plans and budgets
• Maintaining communication and reporting channels
• Supporting succession and development initiatives
• Following safety acts, procedures, and agreements
• Achieving safety targets
• Ensuring compliance with legislation relevant to mining operations
• Conducting daily and weekly reporting activities

The company places strong emphasis on workplace safety, operational excellence, and employee development.

Eastplats Five Star Performance Management System

Candidates applying for the position should be able to perform according to the Eastplats Five Star Performance Management System. The company evaluates employees in the following five areas:

1. Operational Results – Technical and financial targets
2. SHERQ Results – Safety, health, environment, risk, and quality systems
3. Leadership and People Results – Leadership and career development orientation
4. Management Results – Implementation of systems to achieve targets
5. Customer and Relationship Results – Professional relationships with colleagues, managers, and customers

Applicants must also demonstrate alignment with the Eastplats Value System.

POPIA Disclaimer

Eastplats confirmed that by sending a CV to the company email address, applicants agree to the processing and sharing of personal information for verification purposes in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

The company also stated that all personal information will remain confidential during the recruitment process.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit applications before the closing date of 28 May 2026. Late applications will not be accepted or considered.

Application Method

Candidates should send:

• Updated CV
• Correct reference number: LA20260521
• Position name: Laboratory Assistant
• Applications must be emailed to: hrvacancy@eastplats.co.za

CVs may also be handed in at the mine human resources office through recognized ward councillors or their delegates on Tuesdays and Thursdays before the closing date.

Important Notes for Applicants

Before applying, candidates should ensure that:

• All information on the CV is accurate and updated
• Contact details are correct
• Relevant qualifications and experience are clearly listed
• The correct reference number is included in the application
• Applications are submitted before the closing date

Applicants are advised to prepare professional CVs that highlight laboratory experience, Fire Assay knowledge, mining experience, and safety awareness. Strong communication and teamwork abilities may also improve application success.

Why Consider a Mining Laboratory Career?

Mining laboratory positions remain important within South Africa’s mining industry because laboratories help ensure accurate mineral testing, quality control, and operational efficiency. Laboratory Assistants support production processes by preparing and analysing samples that assist mining operations.

A laboratory career in mining can provide:

• Practical mining industry experience
• Technical laboratory skills development
• Exposure to analytical procedures
• Opportunities for career growth within mining operations
• Experience with quality systems and safety procedures

Candidates with experience in sample preparation and Fire Assay procedures may find additional opportunities within the mining and metallurgy sectors after gaining experience in roles such as this one.

Closing Date Reminder

The official closing date for the Eastplats Laboratory Assistant vacancy is 28 May 2026. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline.