MINING LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

Giraffe Bio | Buenos Aires, CABA | On-site | Full-time

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ABOUT GIRAFFE BIO

At Giraffe Bio, we're advancing mineral processing by bringing the tools of biotechnology and AI into mining. Our team develops biomolecules and bioprocesses that improve metal recovery, lower energy use, and reduce environmental impact. This is a unique opportunity to join a growing startup that blends molecular biology, chemistry, and mineral science to build the next generation of sustainable extraction technologies, and to grow within it.

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THE ROLE

We're looking for a hands-on Mining Laboratory Technician to join our mineral processing team. This is a full-spectrum bench role; you'll alternate between precision analytical work, operating instruments, preparing reagents, calibrating equipment and physically demanding tasks such as loading and unloading the grinding mill, handling mineral slurries, and moving sample boxes.

We're looking for someone who genuinely enjoys working at the bench and sees this as a long-term position. The ideal candidate is meticulous, reliable, and comfortable getting their hands dirty (sometimes literally) in service of good science.

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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Mineral Sample Preparation

→ Load and unload the grinding mill with mineral samples and grinding media.

→ Operate mill per established protocols.

→ Prepare representative splits and sub-samples for downstream testing and external submission.

→ Wash, dry, and classify mineral material after processing stages.

Mineral Processing & Extraction Testing

→ Set up, execute, and monitor bench-scale mineral processing and extraction tests, including reagent dosing and pH control.

→ Collect and handle process products (solids and liquids) at different stages of extraction workflows.

→ Handle mineral pulps and slurries; operate filtration equipment and vacuum systems.

→ Assist with additional mineral processing experiments as directed by senior staff.

Analytical Measurements

→ Operate XRF spectrometers and similar instruments for elemental analysis of mineral samples.

→ Prepare analytical standards, blanks, and duplicates following QC protocols.

→ Perform titrations, gravimetric determinations, and basic wet chemistry as required.

General Lab Operations

→ Prepare reagents, standard solutions, and buffers.

→ Calibrate and maintain pH meters, analytical balances, micropipettes, and filtration equipment.

→ Maintain accurate records in lab notebooks and inventory systems.

→ Manage consumables stock; assist with purchasing and supplier communication.

→ Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements; contribute to a culture of safety.

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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This role involves regular physical activity throughout the working day. Candidates must be able to:

→ Lift and carry loads of up to 25 kg unassisted on a regular basis.

→ Push, pull, and maneuver containers, trolleys, and lab-scale mining equipment.

→ Stand and bend for extended periods during sample preparation.

→ Occasionally work in dusty environments wearing respiratory protection (dust mask/half-face respirator).

A pre-employment occupational health assessment may be required to confirm fitness for the physical demands of this role.

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QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

REQUIRED

– Technical degree, associate degree, or equivalent certification in Chemistry, Geology, Metallurgy, Mining or a closely related field.

(Completed degree or thesis/final-project stage only).

– At least one year of hands-on laboratory experience, academic or industrial.

– Physical fitness consistent with the demands described above.

– Strong attention to detail and consistent documentation habits.

– Organized, reliable, and able to manage repetitive tasks with precision.

– Safety-first mindset; comfortable working with chemicals and mineral dust.

– Working English for reading technical protocols and instrument documentation.

NICE TO HAVE

– Prior experience in a mineral processing, mining, or metallurgical laboratory.

– Hands-on exposure to XRF, AAS, ICP, or other elemental / mineralogical techniques.

– Familiarity with bench-scale mineral processing or extraction test procedures.

– Knowledge of reagent preparation for mineral processing applications.

– Familiarity with SOPs, GLP, or similar quality frameworks.

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WHAT WE OFFER

→ Growth & mentorship: structured training from our senior lab team and process engineers from day one.

→ Real ownership: core lab functions that directly support cutting-edge mineral processing R&D.

→ Competitive pay: compensation aligned with your experience level.

→ Startup upside: room to grow as the company and its mining projects scale.

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HOW TO APPLY

If you're hands-on and genuinely curious about biotech applied to mineral processing, we'd love to hear from you.

Send your CV/resume to jobs@giraffe-bio.com with a short note covering:

· Why you're interested in this role at Giraffe Bio.

· Your relevant lab experience and any techniques you've worked with.

· Your salary expectations and earliest start date.

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