Senior Production Chemist - Refinery Operations

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement annuity fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Production Chemist to optimize refinery chemistry, ensure product quality, and troubleshoot process issues. The role balances on-site laboratory and plant support with remote analysis and reporting, within a leading integrated energy environment.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with 7+ years in petrochemical or refinery settings, and has hands-on proficiency with GC, HPLC, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in petrochemical or refinery operations.
• Experience with refining processes (crude distillation, catalytic cracking, hydrotreating).
• Proficiency with analytical instrumentation (GC, HPLC, spectroscopy) and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze refinery streams and finished products to ensure quality.
• Develop strategies to optimize additives, catalysts, and treatment programs.
• Investigate and resolve issues related to product quality, corrosion, and fouling.
• Conduct lab analyses using GC, HPLC, spectroscopy to support monitoring.
• Collaborate with operations and engineering to implement improvements.
• Maintain records and prepare technical reports on quality and usage.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering

Tools

GC

HPLC

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading integrated energy company, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Production Chemist to join their state-of-the-art refinery operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This pivotal role will focus on optimizing chemical processes, ensuring product quality, and troubleshooting operational challenges within the refining process. The position involves a hybrid work model, balancing essential on-site laboratory and plant support with remote analysis and reporting. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of refining chemistry, analytical techniques, and process optimization strategies. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute to the efficiency and environmental performance of one of South Africa's key industrial facilities, located in a major port city known for its subtropical climate and cultural diversity.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze refinery process streams and finished products to ensure adherence to quality specifications.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize chemical additives, catalysts, and treatment programs.
• Investigate and resolve operational issues related to product quality, corrosion, and fouling.
• Conduct laboratory analysis using advanced techniques (e.g., GC, HPLC, spectroscopy) to support process monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with operations and engineering teams to implement process improvements and new technologies.
• Maintain accurate records of analyses, process data, and recommendations.
• Prepare technical reports on product quality, process performance, and chemical usage.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new analytical methods, and regulatory changes impacting refinery operations.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the laboratory and plant environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in petrochemical or refinery operations, with a strong focus on production chemistry.
• Extensive knowledge of refining processes (e.g., crude distillation, catalytic cracking, hydrotreating).
• Proficiency in various analytical instrumentation and methods relevant to petroleum products.
• Proven experience in troubleshooting complex chemical process issues.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, with the capacity to work effectively in both remote and on-site settings.
• Familiarity with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is an advantage.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a performance-based incentive bonus. Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans are provided, alongside a substantial contribution to a retirement annuity fund. Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and attending industry conferences are encouraged. The hybrid work arrangement supports a flexible approach to work-life integration. This role is based in the bustling city of Durban , offering access to beautiful coastlines and a rich cultural heritage.