Operations Associate – Gemological Laboratory

Operations Associate – Gemological Laboratory Location: Dubai, UAE Industry: Gemology / Diamond Grading & Certification Function: Operations / Laboratory Operations

Job Purpose We are looking for a detail-oriented Operations Associate to support the day-to-day operational workflow within a gemological laboratory. The role involves handling and tracking stones through different stages of the operational process, performing precise measurements, operating specialized equipment, supporting inscription activities, maintaining accurate inventory records, and processing reports. This is an operations-focused role requiring excellent attention to detail, accuracy, concentration and adherence to defined processes and quality standards.

Salary: 4500-5000 AED + standard UAE benefits (Medical + visa + air tickets)

Location: Dubai

Key Responsibilities

Weights & Measurements

• Measure stone weight, proportions and other required data according to defined procedures.
• Prepare stones for subsequent stages of the operational workflow.
• Analyze and accurately record stone proportions and measurements.
• Operate colorimeters and other specialized measurement devices.
• Measure fluorescence and other required characteristics using designated equipment.

Inscription Operations

• Perform requested inscription services according to established procedures.
• Operate inscription equipment accurately and safely.
• Support inscription-related activities including cleaning, inking, verification and image capturing.
• Ensure stones are correctly processed and forwarded to the appropriate next stage.

Inventory & Workflow Control

• Facilitate and distribute stones across different production functions to maintain smooth workflow.
• Track the status of stones at each stage and identify or resolve workflow issues.
• Maintain accurate physical and system records of stone locations.
• Store and retrieve stones efficiently according to established procedures.
• File, retrieve and distribute stones while maintaining an organized workflow.
• Support vault/inventory opening and closing processes.
• Perform physical and electronic inventory reconciliation.
• Identify discrepancies and escalate issues where required.
• Maintain strict accuracy and accountability while handling valuable items.

Report Processing

• Prepare reports following completion of requested services.
• Coordinate internally for report printing and processing when required.
• Ensure the correct stone is matched with the correct report before forwarding it to the next stage.
• Organize and route stones requiring additional services.
• Support basic printer and production-equipment maintenance when required.

Quality & Process Compliance

• Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality requirements and operational guidelines.
• Complete assigned tasks accurately within required timelines.
• Identify operational issues and resolve or escalate them appropriately.
• Apply sound judgement when selecting actions within defined procedures.
• Maintain accurate documentation and system records.
• Suggest practical solutions and process improvements with guidance from management.

Desired Candidate Profile

• High School Certificate / Diploma or equivalent qualification.
• 1+ year of experience in operations, inventory control, production support, quality operations, jewellery/diamond operations, precision handling or a similar process-driven environment preferred.
• Good knowledge of MS Office, particularly Excel and Word.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy while performing repetitive tasks.
• Good numerical and analytical ability.
• Ability to accurately handle, track and reconcile small/high-value items.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and escalate discrepancies.
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to learn and operate specialized equipment and precision tools.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize and manage time effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative and team-oriented approach.
• Ability to follow detailed SOPs and structured operational processes.

Key Skills Operations | Inventory Control | Workflow Coordination | Production Support | Physical & System Reconciliation | Quality Control | SOP Compliance | Precision Handling | Measurement | Documentation | Report Processing | MS Excel | Problem Solving | Attention to Detail