Production Chemist

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 540,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a leading oil and gas facility in Paarl, Western Cape, to hire a Production Chemist. The role focuses on analyzing samples, ensuring product quality, and optimizing chemical processes in a fast-paced industrial setting.

The ideal candidate has a chemistry degree and at least 4 years of laboratory or process chemistry experience in oil & gas, petrochemical, or refining contexts. On-site work in Paarl, with strong collaboration with engineers and operators.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related scientific field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in a laboratory or process chemistry role within oil & gas, petrochemical, or refining industries.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles in industrial processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• GLP and safety awareness essential.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and specialized chemical analyses on raw materials, intermediates and finished products using laboratory techniques.
• Monitor process parameters and chemical compositions to meet quality specifications.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and deviations, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
• Develop and validate new analytical methods for process monitoring and product development.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and calibration.
• Prepare detailed reports on results and process performance.
• Collaborate with process engineers and plant operators to optimize chemical processes.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Assist in implementing quality management systems and continuous improvement.
• Stay updated on analytical chemistry advancements relevant to the industry.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to safety

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC/GC/GC-MS

Spectroscopy instruments

Titration techniques

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the downstream oil and gas sector, is seeking a diligent and analytical Production Chemist for their facility located in **Paarl, Western Cape**. This role is crucial for monitoring and optimizing chemical processes involved in oil and gas production, refining, and petrochemical operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for analyzing chemical samples, ensuring product quality, troubleshooting process issues, and developing solutions to enhance efficiency and product yield. This is an excellent opportunity to apply chemical expertise in a dynamic industrial setting and contribute to the smooth operation of a key energy processing facility. The position requires hands-on laboratory work and close collaboration with operations and engineering teams. We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and providing a safe and professional working environment for our employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine and specialized chemical analyses on raw materials, intermediates, and finished products using various laboratory techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, titrations).
• Monitor process parameters and chemical compositions to ensure they meet quality specifications and operational targets.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and quality deviations, identifying root causes and recommending corrective actions.
• Develop and validate new analytical methods as required for process monitoring and product development.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring calibration and proper functioning.
• Prepare detailed reports on analytical results, process performance, and quality control measures.
• Collaborate with process engineers and plant operators to optimize chemical processes and improve efficiency.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the laboratory and plant operations.
• Assist in the implementation of quality management systems and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Stay abreast of advancements in analytical chemistry and chemical process technologies relevant to the industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a laboratory or process chemistry role, preferably within the oil and gas, petrochemical, or refining industries.
• Proficiency in a range of analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles and their application in industrial processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Good laboratory practice (GLP) and safety awareness are essential.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with statistical process control (SPC) is a plus.
• Must be willing to work on-site in **Paarl, Western Cape, ZA**.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, opportunities for professional development, and a stable work environment within a leading industry company. Enjoy working in a dedicated team focused on operational excellence and product quality. Contribute to the essential operations of the energy sector.