Diamond Grader

GIA (Gemological Institute of America)•New York, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Job Summary: Perform the summative evaluation of diamonds in accordance with the International Diamond Grading System and document identifying features required to finalize GIA Diamond Grading Reports; provide constructive feedback to the staff who does the initial grading evaluation during the production process if necessary. Key Responsibilities: Perform the following and other duties assigned to meet production goals (quality & quantity): Evaluate a diamond and apply sound technical knowledge to finalize accurate and consistent clarity, polish and symmetry grades in accordance with GIA standards; perform the initial evaluation of the grading process per production needs Apply standard grading methodology and examination techniques to evaluate a diamond using proper tools and devices (i.e. microscope, loupe, tweezers, etc.) Apply sound knowledge of GIA policies and procedures to identify characteristics and treatments present in the diamond, and document the grades by using GIA’s proprietary systems Apply sound problem solving, reasoning and analytical skills to identify and clarify issues encountered, and be able to determine next steps Perform fancy color grading as assigned or per business needs Verify thoroughness and accuracy of grading documentation on the work screen and plot, articulate and document changes to the initial evaluation Proactively provide constructive technical feedback to less experienced staff during the grading process; be able to articulate the reasoning and analytical thought process used to formulate the final evaluation of the diamond Maintain or exceed production (quality and quantity) criteria and goals Perform other duties as assigned or per business needs (i.e. secondary services, Record Query, color analysis etc.) Complexity: Follow defined procedures/guidelines to perform the job; complete tasks through application of detailed procedural knowledge of many different varied processes and methods. Use professional judgement to select appropriate action from defined procedures using business sense and prior experience of handling similar situations; seek help from Diamond Grader Specialist or others for troubleshooting more complex technical subjects Ability to suggest solutions for specific situations with guidance from supervisor Impact on GIA reputation may be significant if procedures are not followed and mistakes are made

Requirements

Personal accountability: continually improve performance; take personal accountability for decisions, actions & outcomes
Technical knowledge: sound knowledge of GIA grading policies and procedures; able to deliver timely grading results that are in alignment with GIA grading standards
Service mindset: drive and motivation to meet and exceed production requirements
Decision quality/Problem solving: ability to identity and solve routine issues, able to identify when to escalate issues
Mentoring Skills: facilitate the technical skills development of others by proactively seeking opportunities (i.e. providing constructive feedback and answering questions during the production process, articulating the reasoning for change to the initial evaluation in a professional manner that facilitates confidence and maintains self-esteem, documenting precisely in the "Grader Feedback" screen of Spectrum, etc.)
Analytical skills: ability to use analytical thinking to clarify issues and determine next steps based on procedures and previous experience, or how to follow up to obtain more information and determine appropriate next steps
Visual perception (being able to make sense of what you see), depth perception, understanding of spatial relationship – ability to translate 3-D into 2-D map/plot with accuracy
Proficiency in using gemological devices (i.e. microscope, tweezers, loupe, etc.) and office equipment
Ability to read, comprehend and follow standard procedures or instruction (proficiency in reading, writing and speaking in English required)
Communication Skills: ability to communicate professionally and collaborate with a diverse group of professionals; provide constructive feedback to less experienced graders during production process; proactively seek guidance and feedback from others or more experienced team members (actively listen and communicate with others in a timely & professional manner)
Proficiency in computer skills (MS Office)
Ability to work in close physical proximity with other staff, while utilizing shared equipment
Detail oriented: ability to produce accurate detailed work and thorough documentation
Work independently and productively in a production-oriented laboratory environment
Interpersonal skills: ability to create positive interactions with colleagues and team; actively communicate with others or the team supervisor in a timely & professional manner; maintain a collaborative working relationship with others and peers to improve the team performance
Time management skills: Manage time and priorities appropriately - approach work in an organized and systematic manner
High school diploma required
meet the Selection Criteria defined, typically not exceeding 18 to 20 months as Diamond Grader Associate (L3) or equivalent experience

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from four-year college or university with major in Earth Sciences preferred
Graduate Gemologist (GG) diploma preferred

Responsibilities

Evaluate a diamond and apply sound technical knowledge to finalize accurate and consistent clarity, polish and symmetry grades in accordance with GIA standards
Apply standard grading methodology and examination techniques to evaluate a diamond using proper tools and devices (i.e. microscope, loupe, tweezers, etc.)
Apply sound knowledge of GIA policies and procedures to identify characteristics and treatments present in the diamond, and document the grades by using GIA’s proprietary systems
Apply sound problem solving, reasoning and analytical skills to identify and clarify issues encountered, and be able to determine next steps
Perform fancy color grading as assigned or per business needs
Verify thoroughness and accuracy of grading documentation on the work screen and plot, articulate and document changes to the initial evaluation
Proactively provide constructive technical feedback to less experienced staff during the grading process
Maintain or exceed production (quality and quantity) criteria and goals
Perform other duties as assigned or per business needs (i.e. secondary services, Record Query, color analysis etc.)