Chemist

Job purpose

To supervise and perform physical and chemical tests on aviation fuels, general fuels and related products crossing the UAE borders adhering to international specifications and/or other approved standards. To align the testing of fuel and other related products to support the government and organization strategy, ISO requirements and balanced scorecard objectives.

Job specific accountabilities

Instructs and directs the work of the laboratory technician and the laboratory assistant. Monitors performance and ensures that they follow proper testing, and fire and safety procedures in the laboratory.

• Supervises and carries out laboratory activities such as routine and non-routine testing and analysis of general/industrial fuels, aviation fuels and related products. Ensures and follows the standard and established procedures and ensures that results are accurate and in accordance with company specifications.
• Carries out special tests, which may involve advanced techniques, the use of special apparatus or modifications to traditional testing methods to ensure product is on specification.
• Reviews and prepares test reports and ensures proper distribution of same to all concerned. Uses the online quality control system to complete standard reports.
• When required, visits ADNOC terminals/depots, airports and other customer storage facilities to make certain that the quality control procedures are followed. Recommends immediate action whenever there are problems. Reports to the department manager for final advice.
• Tests and controls the qualities of all products imported (drum or bulk) or received from refinery and sold by ADNOC distribution to ensure that the specifications are as the prescribed standard.
• Provides a solution and recommendation to adjust the products in case of contamination or failure in particular tests.
• Trains and guides all laboratory staff on all testing methods and on new testing methods/equipment and ensures the team meets the highest standards of proficiency.

Job specific accountabilities 2

To supervise and perform the calibration and verification of laboratory equipment and testing facilities and maintain records of the same. Also plans and supervises lab analyses schedules and reports deviations of results. Prepares and maintains the statistical quality control (SQC) charts to verify and monitor the performance.

• Maintains an up-to-date laboratory documentation system including laboratory procedures, manuals, product specifications and schedule of analyses to facilitate timely decision making.
• Plans and supervises the input of data to the laboratory management system of ADNOC Distribution and thereby ensures accuracy and timeliness of all updates.
• Provides a solution and recommendation to adjust the off-spec products/slop as well as utilization of non-moving products when needed in consultation with department manager product quality control and laboratory.
• Prepares an annual plan to purchase chemical materials with a budget estimate and an annual plan to purchase the rest of the testing supplies with a budget estimate (OPEX).

Job specific accountabilities 3

Maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment

• Ensures the effective reliability of laboratory equipment to provide accurate information to end users.
• Ensures that no delays are incurred on laboratory analyses timelines and submissions are according to stipulated schedules so as to meet end user requirements.
• Maintains standby and backup testing facilities in case of breakdown.

Laboratory procurement and pre-commissioning

• Initiates purchase requisition, follows up for purchase order release to selected vendor and initiates GRN in the system for payment to vendor.
• Participates in vendor pre-qualification process for vendors related to R&D and laboratory testing equipment, together with superiors, to ensure that all product requirements and services are provided cost efficiently in accordance with defined standards and procedures ensuring optimum protection of ADNOC Distribution’s business interests.

Inventory management

• Controls inventory of chemicals, testing apparatus, equipment and glassware for the efficient operation of the laboratory. Ensures that such are maintained in a clean, orderly and safe condition. Prepares requisitions for chemicals and other materials when required.

ISO management

• Maintains and updates records, data and documents for ISO related to aviation and general fuels. Participates on the internal audit team and presents all related work to the manager for final approval.

Others

• Coordinates with senior chemist and department manager and implements testing of samples received from ASTM proficiency testing programs (ASTM PTP) or other laboratories, as part of inter-lab cross-check programs.
• Performs other similar or related duties as requested by the manager including covering for the senior chemist whenever needed.
• Participates actively in seminars and industrial exhibitions featuring international analytical equipment manufacturing and refining industries.
• Recommends the disposal of contaminated products after analysis making sure the financial loss, if any, is minimal.
• Conducts in-house technical training courses for other department staff and customers when needed.

Management reporting

• Prepares the monthly performance report and, if required, the biannual specifications of fuels.

Minimum qualification

Bachelor degree in chemistry

Minimum experience, knowledge & skills

• Six years of experience in a similar role in the oil and gas industry will be preferable.
• Diverse knowledge of chemical and physical analyses, crude oil, fuels products characterization/test methods, ASTM/IP and other applicable standard test methods.