Production Chemist - Petroleum Refining

Placements24; Lorenziberg; On-site; EUR 48,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Production Chemist for a refinery-based role in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The position focuses on rigorous analytical testing of crude oil, intermediates and products to ensure specifications and efficiency.

Top candidates will have a strong analytical chemistry background and refinery experience. The role involves method development, QA compliance (ISO 17025), reporting, and collaboration with process engineers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field is required.
• Experience with analytical chemistry techniques (GC, HPLC, spectroscopy, titration).
• 5+ years in production chemistry or similar petroleum refining/line role.
• Familiarity with ASTM methods and refinery unit operations.
• Strong reporting, data interpretation, and solution skills.
• Proficiency with LIMS and laboratory documentation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and non-routine analyses of crude oil, intermediates, and finished products.
• Monitor process parameters and compositions to ensure specs and quality.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and identify root causes of deviations.
• Develop and validate new analytical methods as needed.
• Maintain ISO 17025 and laboratory QA procedures.
• Collaborate with process engineers to optimize refining operations.
• Keep accurate records and generate detailed lab reports.
• Ensure safe operation of the lab and adherence to HSE policies.
• Support process improvement initiatives to cut costs and boost efficiency.
• Manage laboratory inventory and consumables.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Problem solving

Report writing

Education

Bachelor's in Chemistry

Tools

LIMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the downstream oil and gas sector, is seeking a dedicated Production Chemist to join their refining operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This role is essential for ensuring the quality and efficiency of refining processes through rigorous chemical analysis and process optimization. You will be responsible for monitoring key chemical parameters, troubleshooting process deviations, and contributing to the continuous improvement of product quality and operational performance. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in analytical chemistry and a practical understanding of refining operations. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a vital industry in the Eastern Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and non-routine chemical analyses of crude oil, intermediate streams, and finished products.
• Monitor process parameters and chemical compositions to ensure product quality meets specifications.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and identify root causes of quality deviations.
• Develop and validate new analytical methods as required.
• Implement and maintain laboratory quality control procedures (e.g., ISO 17025).
• Collaborate with process engineers and operations teams to optimize refining processes.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and generate detailed reports.
• Ensure safe operation of the laboratory and adherence to all HSE policies.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.
• Manage laboratory inventory and consumables.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Production Chemist or in a similar laboratory role within the petroleum refining or petrochemical industry.
• Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques (e.g., GC, HPLC, spectroscopy, titration).
• Experience with petroleum product testing methods (e.g., ASTM standards).
• Familiarity with refining processes and unit operations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple tasks.
• Strong commitment to safety and quality standards.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Queenstown, Eastern Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and potential for performance bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in analytical techniques and refining processes are available.
• The role is based at a well-equipped facility in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, providing a stable and supportive work environment.
• Employees benefit from a strong safety culture and the chance to contribute to essential industrial operations.
• Career progression within the company is encouraged.