Senior Chemist

About the Role

Virtucruit is seeking a Senior Chemist to join its team in Najran, Saudi Arabia. This full-time position involves supporting daily laboratory operations and overseeing shift activities within a fast-paced mining laboratory environment. The successful candidate will supervise the shift team, ensure timely completion of analyses, and uphold strict safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the highest level of safety, health, and environmental work standards are maintained.
• Supervise daily laboratory work, including sample preparation, fire assay, wet chemistry, and AAS/ICP. XRF experience is an asset.
• Manage and guide the shift crew to ensure work is completed safely and on time.
• Follow up on sample priorities and turnaround times.
• Ensure routine QA/QC checks (CRMs, duplicates, control monitoring).
• Apply and enforce ISO 17025 laboratory practices in daily operations.
• Maintain and review QC data, including control charts, trends, and deviations.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures, particularly hazardous chemical handling.
• Identify and report non-conformities and deviations.
• Support troubleshooting of routine analytical issues.
• Coordinate with other departments as needed, such as Process and Geology.
• Support the development and training of local nationals through mentorship, guidance, and coaching.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of 5 to 10 years of experience in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising laboratory operations within a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in various analytical techniques, including sample preparation, fire assay, wet chemistry, and AAS/ICP.
• Familiarity with ISO 17025 laboratory practices.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety procedures, especially regarding hazardous chemical handling.

Compensation and Benefits

Virtucruit offers a competitive employment package for this role. Benefits include a tax-free salary, provided accommodation, transportation, and food at the Mine Site, full medical coverage, and end-of-service benefits.