Laboratory Technician III - TCT Analytical

Freeport-McMoRan•Tucson, AZ

About The Position

At Freeport-McMoRan’s Technology Center, the Laboratory Technician III performs routine and non-routine chemical and/or metallurgical analytical tasks under minimal supervision. The role includes bench expertise, training responsibilities, and serving as a group lead. The Technology Center supports global mining, processing, and environmental operations through laboratories and test facilities, including an automated analytical laboratory. The technician prepares samples and runs tests using appropriate techniques, supports quality control, and may assist with sample progression, test-plant or operational-flow setup, and LIMS or SAP data management. The role also involves maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory equipment, training laboratory personnel, supporting safety and quality procedures, and providing testing recommendations to engineers. Work is based at the assigned site; some sites may require additional sample-shipping, document-retention, or accounting support.

Requirements

Three years of direct laboratory experience, or an associate degree in a related field that includes two years of related laboratory experience.
Demonstrated expert knowledge of laboratory equipment, protocols, and techniques appropriate to assigned areas.
Ability to troubleshoot normal-level bench issues.
Demonstrated ability to train and lead others in a particular area of laboratory expertise.
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
Must have completed N4 to N5 progression for the same or a similar role. Employees transferring at the same grade level must complete N5 progression for the appropriate role within 180 days.
Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam and must pass all required training and/or testing.
Must comply with mandatory pre-employment drug testing and ongoing drug and alcohol testing as allowed by applicable laws.

Nice To Haves

Laboratory experience in the mining industry.
Experience operating and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation.
Experience supporting or completing special projects.

Responsibilities

Perform Technician I and II duties as needed.
Prepare samples for analysis and run tests using appropriate techniques; perform sample preparation for the quality control program.
Depending on the site, assist with shipping and receiving, document retention, and/or month-end accounting procedures.
Build sample progression under a supervisor’s direction, or set up test-plant or operational flow for sample preparation and analysis; this may include LIMS and/or SAP data management.
Provide operational diagnostics and make adjustments for tests and analytical equipment.
Maintain laboratory instrumentation and equipment; diagnose problems, calibrate and retest as appropriate, and ensure the laboratory has the supplies needed to operate.
Serve as a group lead, including training and ensuring the performance of group technicians.
Train laboratory personnel in techniques and instrumentation use within the technician’s area of expertise.
Perform laboratory QA/QC, safety, hazardous-waste disposal, and material-collection duties.
Provide engineers with input and recommendations regarding laboratory testing.
Perform other duties as required.

Benefits

Affordable medical, dental, and vision benefits.
Company-paid life and disability insurance.
401(k) plan with employer contribution/match.
Paid time off, paid sick time, and holiday pay.
Parental leave.
Tuition assistance.
Employee Assistance Program.
Discounted pet, auto, home, and vehicle insurance plans.
Internal progression opportunities.
Additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance.