Associate Chemist - El Paso, TX

The Associate Chemist for the Oil and Gas Industry performs detailed analytical testing of hydrocarbon, solid, sludge and aqueous samples retrieved primarily from pipeline and related facility assets. Samples are analyzed using a variety of analytical techniques to include gas chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and inductively coupled plasma spectrometry.

Essential Position Functions:

• Prepare hydrocarbon, sludge and aqueous samples for analyses.
• Perform pH, conductivity, and alkalinity testing.
• Perform chromatographic analyses utilizing gas chromatography instrumentation.
• Prepare standards, calibrate, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair laboratory instrumentation.
• Prepare chemical reagents needed to perform routine testing.
• Perform shipping of nonhazardous material and hazardous material when qualified.
• Perform proper disposal of hazardous and nonhazardous material.
• Review and sign hazardous waste manifest for disposal of lab waste.
• Perform daily checks on Laboratory equipment and instrumentation as part of the lab’s quality assurance system.
• Perform special tests, as defined by Lab Supervision, as required.
• Perform special projects as assigned by Senior Chemist and/or Laboratory Supervisor.
• Clean and photograph corrosion coupons.
• Perform physical and visual examinations of corrosion coupons.
• Perform data entry of testing and examination results.
• Develop test methods and standard operating procedures.
• Train personnel in the use of instruments and test methods.
• Review and release compositional sample and corrosion coupon data.
• Provide general chemistry support to internal customers to include, but not limited to, interpreting compositional sample and corrosion coupon test results and providing sampling and shipping guidance.
• Perform housekeeping duties such as clean countertops, glassware, and stock supplies.
• Maintain inventory and order supplies as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Position Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or Microbiology.

Experience / specific knowledge:

• 1 – 3 years (minimum) of experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory utilizing a variety of techniques and instrumentation to include gas chromatography, ion-exchange chromatography, and inductively coupled plasma spectrometry is required. Specific experience in the oil and gas industry and the field of corrosion science is preferred but not required.
• Level and salary of position is dependent on skills, knowledge and experience.

Certifications, licenses, registrations:

• A Satisfactory driving record as determined by the Company and current, valid State driver’s license are required.
• If the employee is subject to license or certification requirements as stipulated by local, state or federal agencies, or the Company, now or in the future, compliance is required.

Competencies, skills, and abilities:

• Proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook is required.
• Well-balanced interpersonal skills and demonstrable verbal and written communication skills.
• Must keep required work schedule and report to work on time, as required by Lab Supervisor
• Must be able to focus on details and follow the Lab’s Chemical Hygiene Plan.
• Organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential.
• Must be able to understand and follow standard operating procedures, as defined by the Chemistry Lab staff.
• Must be able to perform tasks committed to memory
• Must be a problem solver, self-motivated, and capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Must be flexible and able to work effectively in a team environment and consistently maintain a professional and respectful demeanor/attitude with co-workers and customers.
• Ability to speak and understand English.
• Ability to work with others, take direction from supervisor, focus attention on details, and follow work rules.

Physical demands:

• Lab work requires long periods of standing and moving within a confined area in order to monitor instrumentation and conduct testing procedures.
• Bending, stooping, and squatting may be required
• May carry equipment or supplies, typically less than 25 lbs.

Working conditions:

• Employee must be physically capable of completing and satisfying all training requirements as stipulated by local, state or federal agencies or the Company.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) as designated by the Company is required in the laboratory at all times.
• Must be willing and able to travel, if required, in performing job duties and must be willing and able to work weekends and holidays, as requested.

COVID VACCINATION REQUIREMENT: As a federal contractor, Kinder Morgan must adhere to federal guidelines that require many of its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Accordingly, all new hire employees must be vaccinated before they begin work. This requirement is subject to accommodations for religious and medical reasons under Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and possible state and local laws.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.