Fire Assay
Fire Assay is a traditional and highly accurate method for determining how much precious metal, especially gold and silver, is present in a sample. Think of it like a very precise cooking recipe that helps determine the purity and value of metals. This method has been used for centuries and is still considered the most reliable way to test precious metal content. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has experience in laboratory testing of precious metals, which is crucial for trading, mining, or jewelry industries. Other testing methods exist, but Fire Assay is often called the "gold standard" of precious metal testing.
Examples in Resumes
Performed over 1,000 Fire Assay tests for gold content verification
Managed quality control using Fire Assay techniques in precious metal trading
Supervised Fire Assay laboratory operations and trained junior technicians
Typical job title: "Fire Assayers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Fire Assayers
Professional Organizations
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up a new fire assay laboratory from scratch?
Expected Answer: A senior assayer should discuss laboratory layout, safety protocols, equipment needs, quality control procedures, and staff training requirements. They should emphasize the importance of proper ventilation and safety measures.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in fire assay results?
Expected Answer: Should explain quality control measures, including using control samples, maintaining proper documentation, regular equipment calibration, and following standard operating procedures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main steps in the fire assay process?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic process of sample preparation, fusion, cupellation, and weighing in simple terms, showing understanding of why each step matters.
Q: How do you handle complex ore samples?
Expected Answer: Should discuss different approaches for various ore types, explaining how to adjust the process based on the expected metal content and matrix composition.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety precautions are essential in fire assay work?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic laboratory safety, including proper protective equipment, handling of hot materials, and awareness of chemical hazards.
Q: How do you prepare samples for fire assay?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic sample preparation steps including crushing, weighing, and mixing with flux, showing understanding of why proper preparation is important.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic laboratory safety procedures
- Sample preparation techniques
- Basic weighing and measurement
- Recording and documenting results
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complete fire assay process execution
- Quality control procedures
- Complex sample handling
- Equipment maintenance
Senior (5+ years)
- Laboratory management
- Method development and optimization
- Staff training and supervision
- Troubleshooting complex analyses
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal laboratory training or certification
- Lack of understanding of basic safety protocols
- Poor attention to detail in documentation
- No experience with quality control procedures
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