Lead Production Chemist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Production Chemist for Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, to oversee all chemical processes in upstream and midstream oil and gas operations. This senior role requires strong technical leadership, safety commitment, and the ability to guide a team of chemists and technicians toward operational excellence.

You will develop and optimize chemical treatment programs for scale, corrosion, and hydrate inhibition; analyze production fluids; run tests and trials; and ensure

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years in production chemistry in Oil & Gas with 3+ years in leadership.
• Strong knowledge of oilfield chemicals and their impact on production systems.
• Experience with corrosion and scale inhibition, water treatment, and emulsion breaking.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting.
• Willing to work on-site in Richards Bay with travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the production chemistry team, providing technical guidance and performance oversight.
• Develop, implement, and optimize chemical treatment programs for oil and gas systems (scale, corrosion, hydrate inhibition).
• Analyze production fluid samples and interpret data to diagnose issues and propose chemical solutions.
• Conduct lab studies and field trials to evaluate new products and technologies.
• Ensure environmental compliance for chemical handling, storage, and disposal.
• Maintain chemical management systems and accurate usage/performance records.
• Collaborate with vendors to select and procure chemicals and services.
• Provide expert technical support to operations and engineering teams on chemical matters.
• Oversee safe handling, storage, and application of production chemicals on-site.
• Contribute to long-term production chemistry strategies and budget planning.

Skills

Leadership & team management

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication skills

On-site operations knowledge

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Analytical techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the Oil & Gas sector, is seeking an experienced Lead Production Chemist to join their operations team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior position is responsible for overseeing all chemical processes and applications related to upstream and midstream oil and gas operations, ensuring optimal performance, integrity, and environmental compliance. The Lead Production Chemist will play a crucial role in diagnosing and solving complex chemical challenges, developing innovative solutions, and managing a team of chemists and technicians. This is a key leadership opportunity for a seasoned professional looking to make a substantial impact in a vital industry. The role demands a high level of technical expertise, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to safety and operational excellence. We are looking for an individual who can lead by example, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and contribute to the strategic goals of the organization. The successful candidate will work closely with engineering, operations, and HSE departments to ensure the efficient and safe management of all chemical-related aspects. The strategic location in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offers a unique industrial environment with significant operational demands and opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the production chemistry team, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance oversight.
• Develop, implement, and optimize chemical treatment programs for oil and gas production systems, including scale, corrosion, and hydrate inhibition.
• Analyze production fluid samples and interpret data to diagnose operational issues and recommend appropriate chemical solutions.
• Conduct laboratory studies and field trials to evaluate the performance and cost-effectiveness of new chemical products and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations regarding chemical handling, storage, and disposal.
• Develop and maintain chemical management systems and ensure accurate record-keeping of chemical usage and performance data.
• Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to select and procure high-quality chemicals and services.
• Provide expert technical support to operations and engineering teams on chemical-related matters.
• Oversee the safe handling, storage, and application of all production chemicals on-site.
• Contribute to the development of long-term production chemistry strategies and budget planning.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in production chemistry within the Oil & Gas industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of oilfield chemicals, their application, and impact on production systems.
• Proven experience in corrosion and scale inhibition, water treatment, and emulsion breaking technologies.
• Familiarity with analytical techniques and laboratory instrumentation used in production chemistry.
• Strong understanding of relevant environmental regulations and safety practices.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex chemical problems and develop practical solutions.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , with potential for occasional travel.

Benefits

• competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and an annual performance bonus.
• Opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and career growth within the organization.
• The position is based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a challenging and rewarding career in a key industrial hub.
• The comprehensive benefits package reflects our dedication to employee well-being and professional success.

We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.