At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in geological consultancy projects and conduct mineralogical tests on various materials.
- Company: Petrolab, a growing geological consultancy based in Redruth, Cornwall.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £24,000, 33 days holiday, private health insurance, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Limited remote work; excellent training and career growth opportunities available.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and develop your skills in a critical industry with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in geology or related field; experience in optical microscopy is essential.
The predicted salary is between 19200 - 28800 € per year.
About The Job
Petrolab is a successful and growing geological consultancy providing support services to the mining, minerals processing, materials and construction industries worldwide from its base in Redruth, Cornwall, UK. We provide dependable and accessible interpretative reporting to clients, helping them evaluate the potential of their mineral resources and solve materials-related problems.
Location
Redruth, Cornwall, UK
Salary
£24,000 – £25,000
Hours
Full time
Duration
Permanent
Closing date
28 February 2026
Role Overview
Petrolab is recruiting a dedicated Junior Geomaterials Scientist to join our Geomaterials team. The role involves supporting petrological and mineralogical consultancy projects for clients in the minerals, mining and construction materials industries. Key tasks include sampling logistics, routine mineralogical and petrographic tests, preparation of samples for testing and operation of scientific instrumentation and software (e.g. scanning electron microscope, optical polarising microscopes) to analyse materials such as concrete, aggregate, natural stone, rock core and other samples in accordance with in‑house, UK, European and American technical standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the delivery of petrological and mineralogical projects across a range of client industries.
- Prepare and record samples for testing, ensuring compliance with laboratory procedures and technical standards.
- Operate scientific instrumentation and software to analyse diverse materials (e.g. concrete petrography, aggregate, stone).
- Contribute to macroscopic and microscopic identification of materials and apply geological knowledge to support testing, classification and examination.
- Collaborate with senior geomaterials scientists and mineralogists within a fast‑moving commercial consultancy environment.
Qualifications and Skills
- Graduate geologist, earth scientist or materials scientist with post‑graduate qualification or relevant degree.
- University‑level training or equivalent experience in petrography and optical mineralogy; skills in reflected light analysis highly desirable.
- Prior experience in optical microscopy of basic sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks; knowledge of concrete petrography valued.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Dynamic work ethic, ability to learn quickly and develop new skills.
- Proficiency with standard IT tools; manual handling experience in a laboratory setting.
- Attention to detail, precision, and ability to work to internal and internationally recognised standards.
Benefits
- Starting salary £24,000 (subject to annual review).
- Standard 37.5‑hour week.
- 33 days holiday (including bank holidays).
- Employer‑contributory pension.
- Private health insurance.
Eligibility
To be considered, applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the commencement of employment.
Junior Geomaterials Scientist in Redruth employer: Petrolab Limited
Petrolab is an exceptional employer located in the historic mining heartland of Redruth, Cornwall, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters professional development and personal growth. With a strong focus on training and mentorship, employees benefit from a supportive environment where they can enhance their skills in geological consultancy while working on high-profile projects. The company provides competitive benefits, including a starting salary of £24,000, 33 days of holiday, and private health insurance, making it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the geomaterials field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Geomaterials Scientist in Redruth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the geomaterials field on LinkedIn or at industry events. We can’t stress enough how valuable connections can be when it comes to landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and practical skills. We recommend practising common interview questions related to geological consultancy and being ready to discuss your hands-on experience with materials.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let your passion for geology and materials science shine through. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the work they’ll be doing.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for fresh talent to join our growing team at Petrolab.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Geomaterials Scientist in Redruth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Tailored CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Junior Geomaterials Scientist role. We want to see how your background in geology or materials science makes you a great fit for our team!
Write a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the role and explain why you're excited about joining Petrolab. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in our work.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention any hands-on experience you have with optical microscopy or petrography. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Petrolab Limited
✨Know Your Geology
Brush up on your knowledge of geological materials, especially sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of petrography and optical mineralogy, as these are crucial for the Junior Geomaterials Scientist role.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Demonstrate your inquisitive nature during the interview. Ask insightful questions about the projects Petrolab is involved in and express your eagerness to learn from the experienced team. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in growing within the company.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Even if you don't have extensive work experience, mention any relevant projects or coursework that involved laboratory procedures or technical standards. If you've worked with scientific instrumentation or software, be sure to bring that up as well.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working closely with other scientists, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, and how you can contribute to the dynamic environment at Petrolab.
