Remote Lead Production Chemist

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Generous paid time off

Home office stipend

Professional development opportunities

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Production Chemist to join a fully remote technical services team. You will lead the development, application, and optimization of production chemicals for oil and gas operations, providing expert remote support and driving innovations to improve asset integrity and production efficiency.

The role emphasizes leadership in R&D, collaborative cross-functional work, and mentoring junior chemists, with a strong focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and cutting-edge

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field focusing on physical/organic chemistry for O&G.
• 7+ years of progressive production chemistry experience in oil and gas.
• Strong knowledge of production chemical applications (corrosion inhibitors, scale inhibitors, biocides, demulsifiers).

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D, formulation, and development of new production chemicals.
• Provide remote expert technical consultation and troubleshooting to clients.
• Analyze production fluids and deposits to diagnose issues and recommend chemical solutions.
• Oversee lab testing and performance evaluation of production chemicals.
• Develop and implement chemical injection strategies and monitoring programs.
• Mentor junior chemists and technical staff.
• Author technical reports and contribute to IP development.

Skills

Production chemistry

Oil & Gas know-how

Remote communication

Project leadership

Analytical skills

Education

PhD or MSc in Chemistry

Tools

Analytical instruments

Chemistry software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in specialty chemicals for the oil and gas industry, is seeking an experienced Lead Production Chemist to join their fully remote technical services team. This pivotal role focuses on the development, application, and optimization of chemical solutions used in oil and gas production processes. You will lead research and development initiatives, provide expert technical support to clients remotely, and contribute to enhancing production efficiency and asset integrity through innovative chemical treatments. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly skilled chemist who thrives in a remote work environment and wants to drive advancements in production chemistry globally. The successful candidate will have a strong scientific background and a passion for solving complex industry challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and formulation of new production chemical products.
• Provide expert technical consultation and troubleshooting support to clients remotely via various communication channels.
• Analyze production fluids and deposits to diagnose operational issues and recommend chemical solutions.
• Oversee laboratory testing and performance evaluation of production chemicals.
• Develop and implement chemical injection strategies and monitoring programs.
• Stay current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and advancements in production chemistry.
• Collaborate with R&D, sales, and operations teams to align chemical solutions with market needs.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists and technical support staff.
• Author technical reports, case studies, and contribute to intellectual property development.
• Ensure all chemical products and applications comply with safety and environmental standards.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on physical or organic chemistry relevant to the O&G industry.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in production chemistry for the oil and gas sector.
• Extensive knowledge of production chemical applications (e.g., corrosion inhibitors, scale inhibitors, biocides, demulsifiers).
• Proven experience in laboratory R&D, formulation, and product development.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with experience in fluid analysis and deposit characterization.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client-facing skills, suitable for remote interaction.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience managing technical projects.
• Proficiency in relevant analytical instrumentation and software.
• Ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely in South Africa.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and flexible remote working hours.
• Home office setup stipend and technology provisions.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Chance to work on cutting-edge chemical solutions for the energy sector.
• Global collaboration and impact.