MetSoP is recruiting two Lab Operators to join the Technical Services Department on a six-month fixed-term contract in Lanseria, Gauteng. The position is suited to candidates with Grade 12 who are interested in laboratory operations, sample preparation, metallurgical testing and the mining industry.
MetSoP is a company operating in the metallurgical and mining sectors, with a focus on developing innovative solutions for complex ore-processing challenges. The company provides specialised metallurgical services including custom reagent development, process optimisation and sustainability-focused practices.
Position Details
Position: Lab Operator x2
Department: Technical Services Department
Reports To: Technical Services Manager
Location: Lanseria, Gauteng
Employment Type: Fixed-Term Contract – 6 Months
Number of Positions: 2
Closing Date: 6 October 2026 at 16:00
About the Lab Operator Position
The Lab Operator will play an important support role within the Technical Services Department. The position involves handling samples and assisting technicians with laboratory and metallurgical test work activities.
The successful candidates will be expected to follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs) when carrying out sample preparation and other laboratory tasks. Attention to detail is important because samples must remain properly identified, representative and free from contamination throughout the preparation process.
The role also involves operating basic laboratory equipment under supervision. Candidates should therefore be comfortable working in a practical environment and following instructions relating to equipment use, laboratory safety and environmental procedures.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidates will be responsible for a range of laboratory and onsite support activities.
Sample Receiving and Management
Responsibilities will include receiving samples and ensuring that each sample is correctly labelled and logged. Proper sample management is essential for maintaining traceability and protecting the integrity of samples throughout the testing process.
The Lab Operator will also be required to store samples appropriately and maintain accurate sample preparation records.
Sample Preparation
A major part of the position involves preparing samples for laboratory and metallurgical testing.
Tasks may include:
- Crushing samples
- Milling samples
- Drying samples
- Splitting samples
- Handling prepared samples
- Ensuring samples remain representative
- Preventing contamination during preparation
- Maintaining sample preparation logs
All sample preparation activities must be performed in accordance with applicable standard operating procedures and instructions from the relevant technical personnel.
Supporting Metallurgical Test Work
The Lab Operator will assist technicians during flotation and other metallurgical test work activities.
The position provides an opportunity to gain practical exposure to laboratory processes associated with the metallurgical and mining industries. Candidates will work under supervision and will be expected to follow established procedures carefully.
Reagents and Consumables
The successful candidates will assist with preparing reagents and consumables required for laboratory and onsite test work.
These activities must be carried out under supervision and in accordance with applicable safety and operating procedures.
The Lab Operator will also monitor laboratory consumable stock levels and report shortages to the relevant personnel to help ensure that required materials are available when needed.
Laboratory Equipment
The role includes operating basic laboratory and onsite equipment under supervision.
Equipment may include:
- Crushers
- Mills
- Drying ovens
- Sample splitters
- Other basic laboratory and sample preparation equipment
Candidates will be expected to use equipment responsibly and follow applicable operating and safety procedures.
Any equipment faults, operational problems or safety hazards identified during work must be reported promptly.
Laboratory Housekeeping
Maintaining a clean, organised and safe working environment will be an important responsibility.
The Lab Operator will be expected to maintain the cleanliness and organisation of laboratory and onsite equipment, work areas and workspaces.
Proper disposal of laboratory and onsite waste must also be carried out in accordance with applicable safety and environmental procedures.
Record Keeping
Accurate record keeping is required as part of the position.
Responsibilities will include recording basic laboratory and onsite information, maintaining sample preparation logs and ensuring that relevant information is captured accurately.
Good organisational skills and attention to detail will therefore be important for candidates applying for this position.
Health, Safety and Quality
The successful candidates must consistently follow laboratory and onsite safety procedures and quality standards.
The role requires awareness of potential hazards and responsible handling of samples, equipment, reagents and waste materials.
Candidates will also be expected to report safety hazards and operational issues when identified.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates interested in the Lab Operator position should meet the following requirements:
- Grade 12 / High School Certificate is required.
- A certificate or coursework in Laboratory Science or a related field will be advantageous.
- Previous experience in a laboratory or technical environment is preferred.
- Basic understanding of laboratory safety procedures.
- Familiarity with sample handling and laboratory equipment will be beneficial.
A formal laboratory qualification is not listed as a mandatory requirement. Candidates with Grade 12 who have an interest in laboratory work, technical operations, metallurgical testing or the mining sector may therefore consider applying if they meet the other stated requirements.
Skills and Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate practical and organisational abilities relevant to laboratory operations.
Important skills include:
Basic equipment operation and handling:
The ability to safely handle and operate basic laboratory equipment under supervision is important.
Sample preparation and handling:
Candidates should be able to follow instructions when receiving, preparing, handling and storing samples.
Organisation and housekeeping:
Good organisational skills are required to keep work areas, equipment and samples properly managed.
Accurate record keeping:
The ability to maintain accurate records and sample preparation logs is essential for traceability.
Computer literacy:
Basic computer literacy, including familiarity with MS Office and laboratory systems, will be beneficial.
Laboratory safety:
Candidates must be able to work safely and follow established laboratory and onsite safety procedures.
Teamwork and communication:
The role requires collaboration with technicians and other members of the Technical Services Department. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively and follow instructions.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity may be suitable for candidates who have completed Grade 12 and are interested in developing practical experience in a laboratory or technical environment.
Candidates with laboratory-related coursework or certificates may have an additional advantage. Previous experience in a laboratory or technical environment is preferred, while familiarity with sample preparation and laboratory equipment will also be beneficial.
The position may be particularly relevant to individuals interested in the intersection of laboratory work, metallurgy, mineral processing and mining.
Successful candidates will work under the supervision of technical personnel and will be expected to comply with established procedures throughout laboratory and onsite activities.
Employment Information
The Lab Operator positions are based in Lanseria and are offered on a six-month fixed-term contract.
The successful candidates will report to the Technical Services Manager and will form part of the Technical Services Department.
The work involves practical laboratory and onsite activities, including sample preparation, equipment operation, test-work support, record keeping, housekeeping and safety compliance.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the specified requirements are invited to submit a detailed CV for consideration.
Applications should be sent by email to:
Email: [email protected]
Closing Date: 6 October 2026 at 16:00
Candidates should ensure that the CV clearly reflects their educational qualifications, relevant laboratory or technical experience, practical skills and any experience with sample handling or laboratory equipment.
Applications should be submitted before the stated closing date and time.
Important Information for Applicants
The Lab Operator opportunity offers practical exposure to laboratory operations within the metallurgical and mining environment. Candidates should carefully review the listed requirements before submitting an application.
Particular attention should be given to the requirement for Grade 12, as well as the preferred laboratory or technical experience. Candidates with relevant laboratory coursework, certificates or practical exposure should include these details clearly on their CV.
The ability to follow standard operating procedures, maintain accurate records, handle samples correctly and work safely will be important aspects of the position.
Applicants should also make sure that their contact information is current and that their CV provides sufficient detail for the recruitment team to assess their suitability for the position.