Laboratory Assistant

Lab Assistant – Obsidian Minerals

Employment Type:

Industry:

Specialisation Required:

About Obsidian Minerals

Lab Assistant

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and advanced laboratory testing

  specifically on bentonite and attapulgite

  , including:
• Swell index, viscosity, gel strength, moisture, pH, bulk density, montmorillonite content (for bentonite).
• Absorption capacity, rheology, surface area, and flow properties (for attapulgite).
• Assist in

  R&D trials

  to develop new blends, formulations, and product improvements.
• Maintain accurate test records, lab logs, and sample tracking documentation.
• Prepare and process mineral samples for internal testing and customer evaluation.
• Support quality control processes by ensuring all materials meet company specifications and client requirements.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Ensure adherence to established lab safety protocols and cleanliness standards.
• Collaborate with production and technical teams to troubleshoot variations in mineral performance.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Mandatory:

  Hands-on experience working with bentonite and attapulgite in a lab or industrial environment.
• Diploma/Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Industrial Minerals, Material Science, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of mineral properties, especially clay minerals.
• Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as viscometers, moisture analyzers, muffle furnaces, mixers, etc.
• Ability to follow standard testing protocols and maintain precision and consistency in results.
• Good analytical, documentation, and communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving ability and attention to detail.

Preferred Experience (Not Mandatory)

• Experience in the

  foundry, drilling fluids, cat litter, agriculture, or construction chemicals

  sectors.
• Knowledge of product benchmarking and competitor material studies.
• Exposure to ISO/quality management systems.