Laboratory Technician I

As a Laboratory Technician I at Climax Molybdenum, your primary responsibilities include performing both routine and non-routine chemical and metallurgical analytical tasks. You will collect samples, prepare them for analysis, and assist with the reporting of your findings. Additionally, maintaining laboratory instrumentation and equipment is a key part of the role, ensuring that all processes run smoothly and efficiently.

To apply for the Laboratory Technician I position at Climax Molybdenum, candidates typically need a demonstrated understanding of math, chemistry, and computer skills suitable for the role. An associate's degree in a related field is preferred. Furthermore, effective oral and written communication skills are essential, along with an awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions.

At Climax Molybdenum, Laboratory Technician I employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with company-paid life and disability insurance. There's also a 401(k) plan with employer contributions, paid time off, tuition assistance, and even a $1,450 monthly housing allowance for eligible employees, contributing to a rewarding work-life balance.

The estimated pay range for the Laboratory Technician I role at Climax Molybdenum is currently between $20.00 and $27.00 per hour. This range is determined based on factors like your experience, qualifications, and skills. Additionally, employees are eligible for discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on both company and individual performance.

The working environment for a Laboratory Technician I at Climax Molybdenum is collaborative and safety-focused, situated at an elevation of over 10,000 feet in the beautiful area of Leadville, Colorado. You'll be welcomed into a team culture where your opinions are valued, encouraging both personal and professional growth while enjoying the incredible recreational opportunities that the surrounding mountains offer.

When discussing your experience, be specific about the types of analyses you've performed, the techniques and equipment you're accustomed to using, and any particular successes you've had in troubleshooting. Highlight your ability to adhere to safety protocols and maintain accurate reporting standards.

To ensure accuracy and reliability, talk about your experience with standard operating procedures, your attention to detail in preparing samples, regular calibration of instruments, and thorough documentation of your processes. Mention any quality assurance practices you've applied in past roles.

Safety is critical in any laboratory setting. Discuss your familiarity with safety protocols, the importance of wearing personal protective equipment, and how you maintain cleanliness and organization in your workspace to minimize hazards. Your proactive approach showcases your commitment to safety.

Highlight your collaborative skills by describing how you communicate with your colleagues, share responsibilities, and support each other in achieving common goals while also being open to feedback. Mention any particular experiences you’ve had that illustrate your ability to foster teamwork.

Provide a specific example of a challenge – such as troubleshooting an experimental issue, missed deadlines, or equipment failure. Focus on your problem-solving skills, the steps you took to address the issue, and the positive outcome that followed your efforts.

Emphasize that attention to detail is essential in laboratory work to prevent errors, ensure accurate results, and maintain safety. Discuss specific instances where your attention to detail improved your work outcomes, such as identifying discrepancies in analyses or proper sample preparation.

Detail your familiarity with the types of instruments you’ve worked with, how you ensure they are properly maintained, and your experience with troubleshooting common equipment issues. If you have any formal training or certifications relevant to equipment maintenance, make sure to mention those.

Discuss your experience in documenting results, analyzing lab data, and presenting findings in a clear and concise manner. If you have experience with any specific lab management software or data analysis tools, mention those to demonstrate your technical skills.

Explain your approach to time management and prioritizing tasks based on deadlines, urgency, and the overall workflow of the lab. You can provide examples of how you've successfully managed competing priorities to ensure efficient operations.

This is your chance to show enthusiasm and alignment with the company's values. Discuss your interest in the mining and metallurgy fields and your desire to work in a safe, cooperative environment. Mention specific aspects of Climax Molybdenum's operations or culture that resonate with you.