The Technician is expected to perform specialized and technical duties to assist in the operation and maintenance of mining engineering instructional workshop and laboratory, assisting lecturers in conducting laboratory experiments and field studies related to rock cutting & thin section making, rock mechanics, which involves analyzing the behavior of rock masses under stress conditions, collecting rock samples, preparing specimens, operating testing equipment, recording data, and analyzing results to support research projects focused on rock strength, deformation, fracture patterns, and in-situ stress measurements.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least a National Diploma in Mine Geology or Rock Mechanics Certificate or related field;
• Industrial or related experience is not a must but desirable.

 Duties and Responsibilities

• Sample collection and preparation: Gathering rock samples from field sites, cleaning, cutting, and preparing specimens for laboratory testing according to established protocols;
• Laboratory testing: Operating various rock mechanics testing equipment such as unconfined compression machines, triaxial shear boxes, Brazilian tensile testers, and point load testers to measure rock strength and deformation properties;
• Data collection and analysis: Recording test data accurately, analyzing results using specialized software, and generating graphs and reports to summarize findings;
• Field data collection: Assisting in field investigations including in-situ stress measurements, borehole logging, and rock mass characterization using geological mapping techniques;
• Equipment maintenance: Regularly maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment, ensuring proper functionality and safety standards; Perform related duties as assigned. Assisting faculty with lecture room instruction, records, and assignments; Enforcing laboratory rules and procedures

  Essential Skills

• Technical skills: Understanding of basic rock mechanics principles, familiarity with laboratory testing procedures, proficiency in data analysis software.
• Geological knowledge: Basic knowledge of rock types, geological structures, and field mapping techniques.
• Laboratory skills: Experience with handling laboratory equipment, precise measurement techniques, and safety procedures.
• Communication skills: Ability to clearly document results, communicate findings to researchers, and collaborate effectively with team members;
• Computer literate.