How to become a Sampler/Tester
Sampler testers assist engineers, technical officers and other laboratory staff by collecting and preparing samples, carrying out experiments, making measurements with scientific equipment, recording results and presenting results for critical analysis. Sampler/Testers carry out basic sampling and testing, record and present results and clean, maintain and set up equipment for use in experiments. They play an important role in manufacturing quality control.
Personal requirements for a Sampler/Tester
- Have good eyesight (may be corrected) and normal
- Correct colour vision
- Enjoy scientific activities
- Be able to produce accurate and detailed work
- Be able to work as part of a team
- Have good numeracy skills.
Duties & Tasks of a Sampler/Tester
Sampler testers may perform the following tasks:
- Clean, maintain and set up equipment for use in experiments
- Collect and classify samples
- Perform diagnostic and other scientific tests on samples
- Carry out experimental procedures and monitor processes
- Perform routine mathematical calculations and prepare graphs
- Use computers and computer-interfaced equipment
- Carry out routine quality assurance checks on production line samples and materials.
Working conditions for a Sampler/Tester
Sampler testers will work both in the field, on the process - production line, and in the laboratory. They may work in a team or alone and because they may have to handle dangerous or hazardous materials, safety awareness and compliance with regulations is important. They must be aware of safety regulations and must wear supplied protective equipment.
Specializations
Environmental Field Assistant (Sample Testing)
Environmental Field Assistants (Sample Testing) visit catchment areas to collect water samples for transporting to a regional laboratory for testing.
Milk Tanker Sampler/Driver
Milk Tanker Sampler/Drivers collect and log samples from farms, dairy plants and tankers for laboratory analysis, conduct aseptic sampling of milk from bulk tanks, tankers or milking machines before loading and then conveying the samples to a central laboratory. They may drive heavy combination vehicles.
Air Sampler/Tester
Air Sampler/Testers collect air samples for testing for microbial monitoring of air conditioning systems or cooling towers.
Food Manufacturing Sampler/Testers
Food Manufacturing Sampler/Testers collect samples of recent batches of manufactured food for testing in the laboratory.
Field Assistant (Sample Testing)
Field Assistants (Sample Testing) conduct basic field-based environmental monitoring, sample preparation, and laboratory testing. Their work involves the monitoring, sampling and testing of a range of biological, ecological, chemical and/or physical parameters.
Construction Materials Sampler/Tester
Construction Materials Sampler/Testers collect soil and concrete samples from stockpiles and conveyors and may conduct simple or limited tests on different grades of aggregates or minerals. They may also prepare samples of these materials for testing in the laboratory.
Manufacturing Sampler/Tester
Manufacturing Sampler/Testers collect samples of recent batches of manufactured products for testing in the laboratory.
