Production Chemist - Petroleum Refining

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 75,000 - 107,000; 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 major downstream oil and gas client in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will perform routine and advanced chemical analyses, monitor process parameters, and drive improvements in product quality and efficiency within a refining facility.

The role requires a strong background in analytical chemistry, experience with GC/HPLC, ASTM methods, and the ability to work independently while ensuring safety and quality standards at all times.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years in a Production Chemist or similar lab role in refining/petrochemical industries.
• Strong analytical chemistry skills (GC, HPLC, spectroscopy, titration).
• Experience with petroleum product testing methods (ASTM).
• Familiarity with refining processes and unit operations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and non-routine chemical analyses of crude oil, intermediate streams, and finished products.
• Monitor process parameters and compositions to ensure product quality per specs.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and identify root causes of quality deviations.
• Develop and validate new analytical methods as required.
• Implement and maintain ISO 17025 laboratory quality procedures.
• Collaborate with process engineers to optimize refining processes.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and generate reports.
• Ensure safe operation of the laboratory and adherence to HSE policies.
• Participate in process improvement to boost efficiency and reduce costs.
• Manage laboratory inventory and consumables.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

GC

HPLC

Spectroscopy

Titration

LIMS

Report writing

ISO 17025

Safety culture

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Chemical Engineering

Tools

LIMS software

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.