Technician in Chemical Preparation and Analysis - Benguerir

The UM6P CoreLabs is recruiting a dedicated and skilled Technician in Sample Preparation and Chemical Analysis to join the Imaging and Characterization CoreLab.The Imaging and Characterization CoreLab serves as a cutting-edge platform to support advanced scientific research within UM6P and to provide high-quality services to external partners.The CoreLab technician will be responsible for the preparation, processing, and chemical analysis of geological and metallographic samples, ensuring reliable and reproducible results for both internal UM6P researchers and external clients. This role focuses on the efficient operation of specialized equipment and methods used in imaging and characterization, including sample cutting, polishing, etching, and chemical treatments, as well as the preparation required for advanced electron microscopy and related techniques.

1. Missions

Ensure the preparation, characterization, and chemical, geochemical, and metallographic analysis of geological, mineralurgical, and metallic samples.

The position covers:

the production of chopped slides, polished sections, and metallographic samples for microscopy and microanalytical analyses;

the implementation of chemical analyses using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry.

2. Main Activities

Litholamellar and Metallographic Preparation:

Produce thin sections, polished sections, and metallographic samples suitable for analysis (optical and electron microscopy, chemical analyses).

Implement polishing, embedding, and chemical etching techniques for metallographic studies.

Adapt and develop sample preparation methods (geological and metallic) to meet the laboratory's specific needs.

Participate in the design, layout, and equipment of the preparation workshop.

Maintain a laboratory logbook and manage inventory and consumables.

Provide in-house training in litholamellar and metallographic techniques.

Perform routine and first-level maintenance of preparation equipment.

XRF Analysis:

Perform chemical and geochemical analyses using XRF.

Perform calibrations, validations, and fine-tune XRF methods.

Ensure the proper operation and routine maintenance of the XRF spectrometer.

Diagnose and correct operational anomalies.

Participate in the management of consumables, spare parts, and supplier monitoring.

Write and implement quality procedures related to XRF activities.

Support users with sample preparation and conditioning.

Cross-functional Activities:

Respect and enforce health and safety regulations.

Participate in professional networks, training, and technological developments.

Provide occasional support to CoreLab's other analytical activities.

3. Desired Profile

Knowledge:

Geology, mineralogy, and geological materials (rocks, ores, sediments, geomaterials, etc.).

Principles of metallurgy and metallography (microstructures, metallic sample preparation).

Sample preparation techniques: litholamelage, polishing, metallography.

Chemical and geochemical analyses, particularly XRF.

Basics of metrology and quality assurance.

Understanding of technical documents in English.

Operational Skills:

Precision, attention to detail, and dexterity in manual work.

Experience in optical microscopy (polarized and metallographic light).

Ability to develop technical specifications and document work.

Application of quality management and safety regulations.

Planning, organizing, and monitoring analyses.

Teamwork, listening skills, and strong communication skills.

4. Qualifications and Experience

Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree (Bachelor's degree in laboratory science and technology, geology, analytical chemistry, metallurgy, instrumentation).

Experience: Minimum 3 years in an analytical laboratory (experience in litholamelage, metallography, and/or XRF preferred; experience in an accredited laboratory preferred).