Refining Lab Chemist — Quality & Process Optimization

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

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.