Lead Production Chemist - Upstream Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Professional growth & conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Production Chemist to oversee upstream oil and gas production chemistry in Cape Town, Western Cape. The role includes developing chemical treatment programs, addressing corrosion and scaling, and ensuring environmental compliance.

The candidate will lead a team of chemists and technicians, perform field and laboratory work, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize production chemistry and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field.
• 7+ years of experience in production chemistry within Oil & Gas, upstream operations.
• Knowledge of oilfield scaling, corrosion, paraffin, asphaltene, and emulsion control technologies.
• Experience with analytical techniques and laboratory instrumentation relevant to oilfield water and hydrocarbon analysis.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor chemical injection strategies for upstream production facilities to mitigate corrosion, scale, and other challenges.
• Conduct detailed laboratory analysis of produced fluids, water samples, and core samples to identify chemical issues and solutions.
• Perform field visits to production sites to assess conditions and ensure effective chemical program application.
• Oversee selection, testing, and qualification of production chemicals and vendors.
• Lead and mentor a team of production chemists and technicians, providing technical guidance and feedback.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Team management

Education

Master's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Lead Production Chemist to oversee the chemical aspects of upstream oil and gas operations in the vibrant city of **Cape Town, Western Cape**. This critical role will ensure the optimal performance and integrity of production facilities by managing all production chemistry challenges. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing chemical treatment programs, troubleshooting operational issues related to corrosion, scaling, and emulsions, and ensuring environmental compliance. This position demands a proactive approach, strong analytical capabilities, and leadership qualities to guide a team of chemists and technicians. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and operational excellence in the heart of **Cape Town's** thriving industrial sector. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency in all our operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor chemical injection strategies for upstream production facilities to mitigate corrosion, scale, and other operational challenges.
• Conduct detailed laboratory analysis of produced fluids, water samples, and core samples to identify chemical issues and recommend solutions.
• Perform field visits to production sites to assess operational conditions, troubleshoot problems, and ensure effective chemical program application.
• Manage the selection, testing, and qualification of new production chemicals and vendors.
• Oversee the work of a team of production chemists and technicians, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Ensure all chemical handling and disposal practices comply with environmental regulations and company policies.
• Prepare technical reports, budgets, and operational plans related to production chemistry.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including reservoir, production, and facility engineers.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in production chemistry and advocate for their adoption.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in production chemistry within the **Oil & Gas** industry, with a proven track record in upstream operations.
• In-depth knowledge of oilfield scaling, corrosion, paraffin, asphaltene, and emulsion control technologies.
• Experience with analytical techniques and laboratory instrumentation relevant to oilfield water and hydrocarbon analysis.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to troubleshooting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with technical and management personnel.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations pertaining to the **Oil & Gas** sector.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, demanding operational environment.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, a generous provident fund, and excellent opportunities for professional growth and development.
• You will be part of a respected company with a strong commitment to safety and sustainability, working within the dynamic **Western Cape** region.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.
• Our client encourages continuous learning and provides resources for advanced training and conferences.