
Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine is inviting applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates for the position of Senior Operator – Laboratory (B3). This opportunity is open to both internal and external applicants who meet the minimum requirements and are interested in building a career within a dynamic mining environment.
The successful candidate will be based at the plant laboratory and will report directly to the Laboratory Analyst or a nominated representative. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to quality assurance processes, laboratory operations, and plant optimization activities that support efficient production and customer satisfaction.
Position Details
- Job Title: Senior Operator – Laboratory (B3)
- Reference Number: DCM/PLANT/SOL
- Department: Plant
- Number of Positions Available: 1
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 28 June 2026
Applications are welcomed from individuals who are committed to excellence, safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within a mining and laboratory environment.
About Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine
Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine is a wholly owned subsidiary of Assore Limited and operates as a values-driven mining company dedicated to maintaining high operational standards while placing people at the center of its success. The company is committed to responsible mining practices, employee development, workplace safety, and sustainable growth.
The mine strives to attract talented individuals who demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a willingness to contribute positively to operational objectives.
Minimum Educational Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum educational requirements:
- Grade 12 / Standard 10 Certificate with Mathematics and Physical Science.
- Valid Code 08 (B) Driver’s Licence.
The following qualifications will be considered advantageous:
- National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry.
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry.
- SANAS Laboratory Systems Certificate.
- ISO/IEC 17025 Training Certificate.
Candidates possessing the advantageous qualifications may have an added benefit during the selection process, although these are not compulsory requirements.
Experience Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants should have between six months and one year of practical exposure within a laboratory environment, preferably related to mining operations and laboratory process equipment.
Relevant experience may include:
- Laboratory sample preparation.
- Operation of laboratory testing equipment.
- Quality control procedures.
- Analytical testing processes.
- Exposure to mining production environments.
- Equipment calibration and verification activities.
Practical knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety standards will be beneficial.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Operator – Laboratory will play an important role in ensuring that samples are collected, prepared, tested, and analyzed accurately to support product quality and plant performance objectives.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Sample Collection and Transportation
- Collect samples accurately from sample cutters, stockpiles, dispatch trucks, and designated sampling points.
- Retrieve samples from various operational outlets as required.
- Ensure collected samples are transported safely and efficiently to the laboratory for analysis.
- Maintain sample integrity during handling and transportation.
Sample Preparation
- Prepare samples for analysis according to established laboratory procedures.
- Ensure samples are processed within specified turnaround times.
- Assist analysts with preparation activities such as:
- Weighing samples.
- Fusing samples.
- Leaching samples using approved analytical methods.
- Transferring prepared samples into volumetric flasks.
- Follow laboratory standards to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the preparation process.
Laboratory Analysis
- Conduct sample analysis using designated laboratory equipment and approved procedures.
- Operate analytical instruments safely and effectively.
- Produce accurate test results in accordance with laboratory requirements.
- Report analytical findings to supervisors using prescribed reporting formats.
- Support plant optimization initiatives through reliable testing and analysis.
Equipment Verification and Calibration
The role requires active participation in the verification and calibration of laboratory equipment to ensure accurate results.
Duties include:
- Verifying moisture analyzers using approved procedures.
- Conducting product size verification using sieve masters.
- Recording test results and recommending corrective actions where necessary.
- Performing mini-efficiency tests using sieves to monitor product quality and consistency.
- Verifying oven functionality to ensure effective drying performance.
- Maintaining accurate records relating to equipment verification activities.
Quality Control Activities
- Support laboratory quality assurance initiatives.
- Ensure testing activities comply with operational standards.
- Assist in maintaining consistent product quality that meets customer requirements.
- Contribute to laboratory process improvements and operational efficiency.
Chemical Testing
- Take and monitor pH readings.
- Gradually add whitewash solutions as required.
- Continue monitoring and adjusting solution levels until the desired basic solution is achieved.
- Record observations and report findings according to laboratory procedures.
Plant Optimization Support
- Participate in plant optimization test work campaigns.
- Assist with data collection and testing activities.
- Contribute to initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and product quality.
- Support continuous improvement efforts through accurate laboratory analysis and reporting.
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should possess the following skills and attributes:
- Strong attention to detail.
- Good numerical and analytical abilities.
- Ability to follow laboratory procedures accurately.
- Knowledge of quality control principles.
- Effective communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Good organizational and record-keeping skills.
- Commitment to workplace safety.
- Problem-solving capabilities.
- Ability to perform routine laboratory tasks with consistency and accuracy.
Employment Conditions
Appointment to this position will be made in accordance with Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine Conditions of Employment.
The successful candidate will be required to:
- Undergo a medical fitness assessment as required by the Mine Health and Safety Act (Act 29 of 1996).
- Participate in psychometric assessments if required.
- Complete any additional assessments deemed relevant to the position.
- Successfully pass criminal background verification checks.
- Successfully pass credit verification checks where applicable.
Employment will be subject to satisfactory outcomes from all required assessments and verification processes.
Employment Equity
Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine is an equal opportunity employer. Appointments will be made in accordance with the company’s Employment Equity Plan and Mining Charter objectives.
Applications from suitably qualified candidates from designated groups are encouraged.
The selection process will also consider alignment with the core values of Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine.
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the official Dwarsrivier Recruitment platform.
Applicants must ensure that all required supporting documents are attached to their application, including:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copies of qualifications.
- Certified copies of certificates.
- Certified copy of driver’s licence.
- Any additional supporting documentation relevant to the position.
All certifications must be completed by the South African Police Service (SAPS) or another recognized authority.
Failure to provide proof of qualifications or required documentation may result in the application being disqualified.
Shortlisted candidates may be requested to authenticate information provided in their applications and supporting documents.
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted regarding the outcome of the recruitment process.
Important Notes
- Late applications will not be accepted.
- Unsolicited applications will not be considered.
- Recruitment agency submissions will not be accepted.
- Candidates should ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete.
POPIA Disclaimer
By submitting an application to Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine, applicants consent to the processing of personal information for recruitment purposes.
Personal information may be shared with relevant third parties for verification and screening processes where necessary.
All personal information will be handled confidentially and used solely for the purpose for which it was collected, in accordance with applicable data protection legislation.
Candidates seeking an opportunity to develop their laboratory skills within a mining environment are encouraged to apply for this Senior Operator – Laboratory (B3) position and become part of a company committed to operational excellence, quality standards, and employee development.
Closing Date: 28 June 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the Senior Operator – Laboratory (B3) position are encouraged to submit their applications online through the official Dwarsrivier Recruitment portal. Applicants should ensure that their application is complete and includes an updated CV, as well as certified copies of all relevant qualifications, certificates, and licences. Failure to provide the required supporting documentation may result in the application not being considered.
CVs may be submitted to Dwarsrivier Recruitment via the online application link: https://dwarsriviermine.simplify.hr/. Candidates are advised to carefully review all application requirements before submission and ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and late or unsolicited applications will not be considered.