Utility Tester

Kern Energy; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Kern Energy is seeking an Experienced Lab Technician to perform qualitative and quantitative testing of finished products and process streams at its Corporate Office in Bakersfield, CA. You will report data to refinery departments and support the Quality Control Program while maintaining a safe, compliant lab environment.

The role requires a Bachelor's or related 4-year degree, at least two years’ lab experience, and proficiency with laboratory instrumentation and LIMS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Minimum two years of laboratory technician, analyst, or related experience.
• Experience with refinery laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation.
• Proficiency with MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, clean laboratory environment and properly handle hazardous materials and waste.
• Prioritize work to meet testing schedules and communicate conflicts to Lab Supervisor.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative testing of finished products and process streams.
• Report accurate test results to refinery departments.
• Monitor laboratory equipment performance and report issues.
• Coordinate validation testing for out-of-spec results.
• Operate and maintain instruments per SOPs (GC-FID, GC-FID-SCD, Sulfur/ Cetane analyzers).
• Remain current on testing methods, regulations, and best practices.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

refinery equipment

ASTM methods

LIMS software

instrument software

detail-oriented

troubleshooting

communication

safety practices

teamwork

12-hour shifts

oil/refinery industry

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related

Associate degree with relevant experience

Tools

Baytek Bliss

LIMS

Job description

Job Details

Level: Experienced

Job Location: Corporate Office - Bakersfield, CA 93307

Position Type: Full Time

Education Level: 4 Year Degree

Salary Range: $40.96 - $40.96 Hourly

Travel Percentage: None

Job Shift: Rotating 12-hour Shift

Job Category: Other

Kern Energy is seeking a Utility Tester who is responsible for conducting the qualitative and quantitative testing and laboratory analysis of finished products and process unit streams in an efficient and timely manner. This position is responsible for reporting accurate, precise, and timely data to refinery departments to facilitate decision-making by refinery management. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern's core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Job Function

• Maintain a safe, clean laboratory environment and properly handle hazardous materials and waste.
• Prioritize work assignments to meet testing schedules and communicate conflicts to the Lab Supervisor and affected departments.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative testing of finished products, process streams, unit control samples, and blend samples according to established protocols.
• Report accurate and timely test results to refinery departments.
• Monitor laboratory equipment performance and report issues to the Chemist and Lab Supervisor.
• Coordinate validation testing for questionable or out-of-specification results.
• Perform special testing and support special reporting requests as assigned.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments in accordance with SOPs, including:
  • GC-FID
  • GC-FID-SCD
  • Sulfur Analyzers
  • Knock Engines
  • Cetane Analyzers
  • Other analytical laboratory equipment
• Remain current on testing methods, industry developments, regulations, and best practices.
• Support the Quality Control Program, including inter-laboratory cross-check activities.
• Maintain accurate and organized testing records.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QualificationsKnowledge Skills

• Knowledge of laboratory techniques, chemical analysis, and quality control principles.
• Familiarity with refinery laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and software applications.
• Working knowledge of ASTM, UOP, IP, and EPA test methods.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), preferably Baytek Bliss.
• Ability to operate instrument software interfaces and manage laboratory data.
• Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.
• Effective troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and industry standards.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to accuracy, precision, and reliability.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts and overtime as required.
• Refinery, petroleum, chemical, or petrochemical laboratory experience preferred.

Education/ Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field preferred.
• Associate degree with relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum two years of laboratory technician, analyst, or related experience.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Experience with laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation.
• Refinery or related industry laboratory experience preferred.