Chemist I Research & Technology - Sasolburg at Sasol

Purpose of Job

• Proficient in one or more Analytical Technologies, preferably chromatography and/or Ion Conductively Coupled spectroscopy. Candidate will be expected to execute analysis in two different analytical areas e.g. chromatography and elemental analysis. 
• Day-to-day execution of sample preparation, Gas Chromatography (GC) analysis, data interpretation and validation and reporting of results according to set standards. 
• Elemental analysis of liquid and solid material, including digestion of samples using various techniques and analysing using standard elemental analytical techniques such as ICP, XRF, etc. 
• Preparation of standards, calibration of equipment and general lab safety responsibilities. 
• This role requires a person that is focused on detail, good at scrutinising data and troubleshooting of analytical equipment. 
• This role does can be physical demanding with long hours in the laboratory. 
• Use practical & experimental expertise to troubleshoot equipment and data quality issues. 
• Ability to analyse large volumes of samples over a short period of time, while maintaining quality and integrity of method and results. 
• Analytical support of Lab/Operations with regards to method development, method validation, analysis and transfer of methods to Operations Laboratories in both Sasolburg and Secunda. 
• Execute requests, investigations and/or projects at a high technical standard. 
• Routine analytical data accumulation, basic processing and reporting according to work instructions. 
• Ability to learn different analytical technologies and willing to work in different technical areas, as aligned with business needs. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office – will be required to work-up data in Excel, write reports and present during technical meetings.

Recruitment Description / Key Accountabilities

• GC analytical support to all Fischer-Tropsch and Refining micro reactor operations in R&T. 
• Elemental analysis of liquid and solid material using various techniques e.g. XRF, ICP, etc. 
• Sample management and preparation for analysis. 
• Scrutinise analytical data obtained through analysis and provide Quality Assurance of analytical data. 
• Operate and maintain analytical/scientific equipment and conduct experiments according to standard operating procedure. 
• Ensure that the inventory for consumables required to execute the analysis is kept at all times and must be familiar with the procurement process and is responsible for the ordering of consumables through the procurement process. 
• Assisting project teams with non-routine plant sampling, laboratory sub-sampling and sample preparation for analysis 
• Maintaining method integrity through calibration and validation to ensure data quality. 
• Application of analytical method validation and statistical analysis of results obtained. 
• Discuss, define and agree on the project deliverables with relevant senior scientist and analytical track lead. 
• Ensure documentation and communication of all components of project deliverables are presented to all stakeholders and captured in the relevant Knowledge Management structures. 
• Ensure compliance of project deliverables by leveraging SMEs, such as senior scientists. 
• Develop and maintain scientific standard of excellence and expand own understanding in area of technical specialization (e.g. Consulting with scientists in team, learning through observation of service providers, etc) 
• Ensure adherence to Sasol governance and risk management policies, including safety. 
• Support the Sasol vision and values. 
• Take lead in ensuring quality (precision & accuracy) and speed of delivery of project tasks in collaboration with Scientists, Chemist and Technicians. 
• Take responsibility for personal performance, development and skills development. 
• Develop and leverage relationships with external equipment suppliers and laboratories, Sasol laboratories and R&T Operations for quick delivery of results. 
• Build and maintain relationships with peers and scientist within R&T 
• Work constructively within multi-disciplinary project teams. 
• Represent Sasol with professionalism in external engagements.

Formal Education

• Post Graduate diploma in Analytical Chemistry or Bachelor's degree (BSc preferred)

Min Experience

• 2+ relevant years with Nat Diploma
• 0 relevant years with BSc(Hons) or MSc
• Experience in complex GC separation techniques and/or Ion Coupled Plasma Spectroscopy is preferred.