7.6. Lab Technician

As a Lab Technician at Phoenix Tailings, you will be responsible for operating and performing routine checks on lab equipment to ensure everything functions safely and efficiently. Your role will also involve conducting preventive maintenance tasks such as cleaning and minor repairs, as well as assisting with the general upkeep of the facilities. This includes organization, general repairs, and equipment setup. You’ll play a crucial role in maintaining accurate records of operational data and maintenance activities.

To apply for the Lab Technician position at Phoenix Tailings, you should hold an Associate degree in a technical field or possess an equivalent combination of education and experience. Previous hands-on experience in a production, lab, or mechanical setting is preferred, including any co-op or internship experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, chemical inventory management, and basic computer skills are also important qualifications for this role.

At Phoenix Tailings, the work environment is dynamic and collaborative, emphasizing safety and innovation. As a Lab Technician, you’ll find yourself in a fast-paced laboratory setting where teamwork and continual learning are encouraged. Our open culture values input from all team members, ensuring that everyone feels included and motivated. You’ll also have the flexibility to work in a results-focused environment, balancing your professional commitments with personal life.

While prior experience in a laboratory setting is beneficial, it is not strictly necessary for the Lab Technician position at Phoenix Tailings. We welcome candidates with a strong technical background and a willingness to learn. If you have a keen interest in clean mining and metals production, combined with an eagerness to gain hands-on experience, you'll find plenty of opportunities to grow in this role.

As a Lab Technician at Phoenix Tailings, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes your health and family. This includes 100% coverage for medical, dental, and vision insurance. You'll also receive stock options in our venture-backed company and have access to flexible vacation policies, parental leave, and various learning and development opportunities to advance your career. We organize regular events to foster team bonding and maintain a fun workplace atmosphere.

When answering this question, highlight any relevant lab or mechanical experiences, such as internships or co-op positions. Be specific about the tasks you handled and tools you used. Discuss how these experiences helped you develop skills in equipment maintenance, safety protocols, or data management which align with Phoenix Tailings’ needs.

Demonstrate your understanding of safety protocols by providing examples from previous experiences. Discuss your familiarity with PPE, proper storage of chemicals, and adherence to SOPs. Emphasize your commitment to maintaining a safe workplace and your ability to identify potential hazards.

Prepare a specific scenario where you encountered an issue with lab equipment. Explain how you assessed the situation, the steps you took to troubleshoot, and the outcome. Highlight your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge, as well as your ability to work under pressure.

Discuss techniques you use to stay organized, such as prioritizing tasks, using checklists, or digital tracking systems. Provide a concrete example of a time when your organizational skills led to successful project completion or helped manage busy periods effectively.

When addressing this question, emphasize your communication and conflict resolution skills. Discuss the importance of open dialogue and finding common ground to resolve differences. You might provide an example of a past experience and how it was approached constructively.

Focus on your familiarity with data management tools like Excel or specialized lab software. Describe the importance of accurate record-keeping in a lab environment and provide examples of how you maintained databases or logs in past roles.

This is an opportunity to showcase your problem-solving abilities. Identify specific challenges you’ve faced, whether related to time management, maintaining equipment, or ensuring safety, and explain the strategies you implemented to overcome them.

Highlight your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning any relevant courses, workshops, or industry publications you follow. Describe how applying new technologies or techniques has positively impacted your work in the lab.

To answer this effectively, connect your values with those of Phoenix Tailings. Discuss your passion for sustainable practices in the mining industry, and how the company's mission resonates with your desire to contribute to innovative solutions.

Research Phoenix Tailings’ culture beforehand. Mention specifics such as their commitment to teamwork, innovation, and flexibility. Talk about how these elements align with your personal work style and enhance your motivation to be a part of the company.