Senior Production Chemist - Refinery Operations

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Production Chemist for our client in Vereeniging, Gauteng. The role focuses on optimizing refining processes, ensuring product quality, and improving operational efficiency within the refinery.

The Senior Production Chemist will troubleshoot complex chemical challenges, lead process improvements, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards in a dynamic energy facility.

Qualifications

• Requires a Master’s or PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret process data to optimize chemical processes and yield.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve product quality and process efficiency.
• Troubleshoot complex chemical and operational issues within the refinery.
• Oversee quality control and ensure adherence to specs and environmental standards.
• Lead projects and mentor junior chemists; collaborate with operations and maintenance.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Team leadership

Interpersonal skills

Decision making

Education

Master's degree in Chemistry

PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Analytical instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major integrated energy company, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Production Chemist to bolster their refining operations in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This pivotal role focuses on ensuring optimal chemical processes, product quality, and operational efficiency within the refinery. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of refining chemistry, process optimization techniques, and analytical methodologies. You will be instrumental in troubleshooting complex chemical challenges, developing process improvements, and ensuring compliance with stringent quality and environmental standards. We are committed to operational excellence and sustainable practices, making this a significant opportunity for a driven professional to make a tangible impact. Join our client to contribute to the vital energy infrastructure that powers the region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret process data to identify areas for chemical process optimization.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve product quality and yield.
• Troubleshoot complex chemical and operational issues within the refinery.
• Oversee quality control processes and ensure adherence to specifications.
• Manage the selection, application, and monitoring of process chemicals and catalysts.
• Conduct research and development on new process chemistries and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards related to chemical handling and processing.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and maintenance teams to resolve challenges.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings and recommendations to management.
• Mentor junior chemists and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in a refining or petrochemical production environment.
• Deep understanding of refining processes, product specifications, and relevant chemical principles.
• Proficiency in analytical techniques and instrumentation used in refinery labs.
• Experience with process simulation and modeling software is beneficial.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead projects and work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with the industrial landscape of Gauteng is a plus.
• Commitment to safety, health, and environmental best practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development.
• Generous annual leave and company holidays.
• Relocation assistance may be considered.
• A challenging and rewarding career in the heart of South Africa's industrial hub in Vereeniging, Gauteng .
• Exposure to diverse refining operations and cutting-edge technologies.