“You’re given a lot of freedom and trust in your job.”
Olen | Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Jimmy has been working at Aurubis Olen since 2014. He started as a production operator and was promoted in 2024 to his current position as a laboratory technician in the electrolysis department. From the lab, he supports the production process by conducting chemical analyses that are used directly to adjust the process. The combination of independence, precision, and responsibility makes him feel right at home in his job and allows him to approach each day with confidence.
- Jimmy Vandijck
- 37 years old
- Operator Labo FSD
- Working at Aurubis Olen since May 2014
> You've been part of the Aurubis Olen team for 12 years now. Can you tell us how your journey at Aurubis began?
I’m actually trained as a carpenter. I first worked in kitchen construction, but it wasn’t the right fit for me. After that, I spent seven years working in construction with my father. My oldest brother was already working at Aurubis Olen, and that’s ultimately how I found my way here as well.
> How has your career within Aurubis Olen evolved since then?
I joined Aurubis Olen in 2014 as an Operator working in a two-shift system. Later, an opportunity became available in the Electrolysis Cellar Department during daytime hours, and I took on that role. In 2024, I was asked to temporarily support the laboratory team. What started as a temporary assignment gradually developed into a permanent position, and I’ve been working in the lab ever since.
> Today, you work in the Electrolysis Laboratory. What exactly happens within this department?
In the Electrolysis Department, copper is refined into high-quality copper cathodes. This process takes place in large electrolyte-filled cells containing anodes produced by our Smelter. During electrolysis, copper is dissolved from the anodes and deposited onto cathode plates, resulting in the production of high-purity copper cathodes.
> What exactly does your role as a Laboratory Operator involve?
In the Electrolysis Laboratory, I analyse the copper, nickel and acid content of the electrolyte. The results are shared with the Control Room Operator, who uses this information to adjust the process parameters, such as the amount of acid that needs to be added.
In addition, I monitor the conductivity of the electrolyte and check the dosage of additives such as glue. These additives help prevent short circuits between the copper plates. Occasionally, nodules can form on the plates, causing them to touch each other, and preventing this is an important part of our process control.
> What does a typical workday look like for you?
My day starts with processing samples of copper cathodes that are collected during production. I weigh the samples and send them to the Analytical Laboratory for further analysis.
After that, I prepare and dilute electrolyte samples and perform a range of measurements, including copper, nickel and impurity analyses. I also carry out acid titrations and test the acid used in our BOB recycling facility. By comparing it with a reference acid, I can verify whether the quality meets the required standards. In addition, I measure redox values and conductivity. If I detect deviations, I calibrate the equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results.
> What makes your job challenging?
There is very little room for error because the results of our analyses are used directly to steer the production process. That requires a high level of accuracy, attention to detail and responsibility.
The role also involves a great deal of independence, so good planning and organisation are essential. In addition to laboratory work, we carry out various safety inspections, such as testing alarms, checking cooling tower fire alarms and inspecting fire extinguishers. Safety is always a top priority in everything we do.
> Safety is clearly very important at Aurubis Olen. How do you experience this in your day-to-day work?
Safety plays a crucial role in my daily work. We work with hazardous substances, and there is always a risk of gas formation, so you need to remain aware of that at all times. That’s why we always wear safety glasses and protective gloves in the laboratory, and additional face protection when taking samples.
Everything is clearly labelled, and whenever you need to check specific information, you can easily access the relevant Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on the computer.
> What gives you the most satisfaction in your job?
The independence that comes with the role. I start by prioritising the analyses the Control Room Operator is waiting for, and after that I can largely organise my own workday.
The trust and freedom I receive are very important to me. You’re given responsibility and the confidence to manage your work independently rather than being constantly supervised. That level of ownership makes the job very rewarding.
> Why do you enjoy working at Aurubis?
For me, it’s the combination of working close to home, having a daytime schedule and benefiting from an attractive compensation package. Just as important are the positive atmosphere and the strong team spirit, which make Aurubis Olen a great place to work.
I also appreciate the open culture, where employees are listened to and supported. I’ve been given opportunities to develop myself through training, for example by improving my Excel skills. A colleague also provided me with internal chemistry training. I highly value the fact that my personal and professional growth is actively supported.
The Electrolysis team is looking for new Operators. Will you be Jimmy’s next colleague?
- Apply quickly and easily online.
- We would be happy to welcome you for an introductory interview. See you soon?
