Chemical Engineer / Chemist - Base Oil & Lubricant Production

About this role

Petromech Engineering United Limited in Kaduna is seeking an experienced Chemical Engineer or Chemist to support its waste oil recycling, base oil production, and lubricant manufacturing operations. The role involves assisting production processes, performing laboratory testing, and ensuring product quality. The company operates a workshop capable of mechanical maintenance, repair and fabrication. The ideal candidate has hands-on lab skills and practical industry experience in waste oil treatment, base oil production, and lubricant blending.

What you would do

• Support waste oil treatment and base oil production processes (dehydration, vacuum distillation, bleaching, filtration).
• Assess incoming waste oil and raw materials for processing suitability.
• Monitor process parameters and suggest adjustments to improve quality, yield, and efficiency.
• Prepare and improve lubricant blends based on approved formulations, including base oil and additive selection and dosage calculations.
• Sample and test raw materials, in-process oils, base oils and finished lubricants.
• Perform laboratory tests (viscosity at 40°C and 100°C, viscosity index, density, flash point, pour point, water content, total acid number, colour).
• Interpret results, compare with specifications, and recommend corrective actions for non-conforming products.
• Investigate production problems and quality deviations with production and maintenance teams.
• Operate laboratory equipment, perform calibration checks, and maintain testing and maintenance records.
• Prepare laboratory reports, batch records, production reports and certificates of analysis.

What they are asking for

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Industrial Chemistry.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in waste oil recycling, base oil production, lubricant manufacturing or petroleum product testing.
• Practical experience in waste oil to base oil processing and/or base oil to lubricant production.
• Hands-on laboratory skills and ability to operate testing equipment and interpret results independently.
• Knowledge of lubricant formulations, additives, oil treatment processes and product quality specifications.
• Familiarity with ASTM or other approved laboratory test methods.
• Ability to identify process and quality problems and recommend corrective actions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accurate technical reporting.
• Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, accountability and safe working practices.
• Ability to work with production operators, laboratory personnel and maintenance teams.

Listing details are summarised from the source. Always confirm the role and the employer on the original posting before applying, and never pay to apply for a job.