Below are the challenges you will be expected to accept, please go through them and do let us know if you'll be confident enough to take it. Once you confirm, we can get on a call and talk more about things!I. Leading QC-QA and Documentation:• Establishing and Maintaining Robust Documentation:o Creating Comprehensive SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures):Developing clear, concise, and accurate SOPs for all QC-QA processes,instrument operation, sample preparation, and data analysis. Thisrequires meticulous attention to detail and understanding of bestpractices.o Managing Batch Records and Certificates of Analysis (COAs): Ensuringaccurate and complete documentation for every batch of PGMs tested,including raw material traceability, testing procedures, results, and finalCOAs.o Implementing and Maintaining a Document Control System:Establishing a system for creating, reviewing, approving, distributing, andarchiving all QC-QA-related documents. This includes version control andensuring only current documents are in use.o Ensuring Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: Staying updatedon relevant quality standards and regulations (both local and potentiallyinternational, depending on your market) and ensuring all documentationand processes comply.o Handling Audits and Inspections: Preparing for and managing internaland external audits, addressing findings, and implementing correctiveand preventative actions (CAPA).o Training Personnel on Documentation Procedures: Ensuring allrelevant personnel understand and adhere to the establisheddocumentation practices.II. Working with ICP Analytical Instruments:• Sample Preparation Expertise:o Developing and Optimizing Sample Digestion Methods: PGMs areoften challenging to dissolve. The individual will need expertise in variousacid digestion techniques, including selecting appropriate acids,temperatures, and durations for different PGM matrices.o Handling Hazardous Chemicals: Working safely with concentratedacids and other potentially hazardous chemicals during samplepreparation.o Minimizing Contamination: Implementing strict protocols to preventcontamination during sample preparation, which is crucial for accuratePGM analysis.• Instrument Operation and Maintenance:o Proficiently Operating ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS: Understanding theprinciples of operation, setting instrument parameters, performingcalibrations, and troubleshooting common issues.o Routine Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Performing regularmaintenance tasks, identifying and resolving technical problems with theinstruments, and coordinating with service engineers when necessary.o Method Development and Validation:▪ Researching and Implementing New ICP Methodologies:Staying abreast of advancements in ICP techniques anddeveloping new methods for specific PGM analysis needs.▪ Validating Analytical Methods: Demonstrating that thedeveloped and implemented ICP methods are accurate, precise,robust, and fit for their intended purpose. This involves performingvarious validation parameters like linearity, accuracy, precision,detection limits, and quantitation limits.• Data Analysis and Interpretation:o Processing and Analysing ICP Data: Using instrument software andother tools to process raw data, perform calculations, and generatereports.o Interpreting Results and Identifying Anomalies: Understanding thesignificance of the analytical data, identifying any unusual results, andinvestigating potential causes.o Generating Accurate and Timely Reports: Communicating theanalytical findings clearly and concisely in written reports.III. Utilizing IR Spectroscopy:• Sample Preparation for IR Analysis: Understanding different samplepreparation techniques for IR (e.g., KBr pellets, thin films, ATR) and applyingthem appropriately for PGM-related materials or contaminants.• Operating the IR Spectrometer: Setting instrument parameters, collectingspectra, and performing basic maintenance.• Spectral Interpretation: Identifying functional groups and potentiallycharacterizing PGM compounds or identifying impurities based on their IRspectra.• Method Development and Application: Developing and applying IR methodsfor specific QC purposes, such as material identification or purity checks.IV. Running X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF):• Sample Preparation for XRF: Preparing samples in appropriate forms (e.g.,pressed pellets, fused beads) depending on the material and analysisrequirements.• Operating the XRF Spectrometer: Setting up analysis parameters, runningsamples, and performing routine maintenance.• Data Analysis and Quantification: Using XRF software to analyze spectra andquantify the elemental composition of PGM-containing materials.• Method Development and Application: Developing and applying XRF methodsfor rapid screening, elemental analysis, or quality control of PGMs.V. Maintaining Analytical Instruments:• Deep Understanding of Instrument Principles: Possessing a strong theoreticaland practical understanding of the working principles of ICP, IR, and XRFinstruments.• Preventative Maintenance: Implementing and adhering to preventativemaintenance schedules to ensure optimal instrument performance andlongevity.• Troubleshooting and Repair: Diagnosing and resolving instrumentmalfunctions, performing minor repairs, and coordinating with service engineersfor more complex issues.• Inventory Management of Consumables and Spares: Ensuring an adequatesupply of necessary consumables (e.g., gases, standards, sample vials) andcritical spare parts.• Maintaining Instrument Logs and Service Records: Keeping detailed recordsof instrument usage, maintenance performed, and any repairs.VI. General Challenges:• Working with Precious Metals (PGMs): Understanding the value and securityconsiderations associated with handling PGMs.• Adherence to Safety Protocols: Maintaining a strong commitment to laboratorysafety and ensuring all work is performed according to safety guidelines.• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Analyzing data, identifying issues, anddeveloping effective solutions.• Communication and Collaboration: Effectively communicating with otherdepartments (e.g., production, sales) regarding QC-QA findings andcollaborating on problem resolution.• Time Management and Organization: Managing multiple tasks, prioritizingeffectively, and meeting deadlines.• Continuous Improvement: Identifying areas for improvement in QC-QAprocesses and analytical methodologies and implementing changes.• Staying Updated with Technological Advancements: Keeping abreast of newdevelopments in analytical instrumentation and QC-QA practices.• Potential for High Workload: Depending on the volume of samples and thecomplexity of the analyses, the workload can be demanding.
