Biofuels Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

About us
Our purpose is to bring together people, energy and markets to power and navigate a changing world. In a time of constant change and possibility we need new talent to pursue commercial opportunities, fueled by world-class insight and expertise. We’re always striving for more innovative digital solutions, sustainable outcomes and closer collaboration across our company and beyond, and you could be part of that too. Together we continue to grow as the world’s leading energy company!

The Fuels and Low Carbon Technology (F&LCT) is a team of over 300 technologists, scientists and engineers who provide pioneering solutions to support bp’s Fuels, Refining, Bioenergy and Hydrogen businesses. We also support the Technology group through Innovation Management, Modelling, Digital Science and our academic research programs.

The Bioenergy & Hydrogen Technology team (B&HT) will bring together scientists and engineers dedicated to delivering low carbon energy solutions that align with bp’s strategy while also supporting the technological needs of our oil and gas projects. The team works across many bp’s businesses supporting areas such as novel feedstocks, biogas and advanced biofuels.

The opportunity

The successful candidate will become part of a collaborative team of scientists and must demonstrate excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, coupled with a keen enthusiasm for scientific discovery. Working closely with the analytical, fermentation, synthetic biology, and biochemistry teams, the Analytical Chemist will be responsible for sample preparation and analysis—including both large and small molecules—using advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. They will ensure meticulous maintenance of laboratory records, operate state-of-the-art analytical equipment, and effectively communicate results to team members. This hands-on role requires recent experience in independently delivering experimental outcomes, a strong interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to maintaining safe, compliant laboratory practices while actively supporting a culture of HSSE excellence.

Role Accountabilities

• Work safely and autonomously in a laboratory environment, maintaining strict adherence to HSSE requirements, standard operating procedures, and bp’s Code of Conduct.

• Rapidly adapt to new analytical techniques and protocols and contribute to the development, optimization, and validation of new analytical methods.

• Independently perform sample preparation and instrumental analysis using advanced chromatographic techniques, including liquid, gas, and ion chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

• Support multiple projects concurrently in a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary research environment, working both independently and as part of project teams.

• Evaluate data quality, interpret results, and clearly communicate scientific findings through well‑structured written reports and oral presentations.

• Maintain thorough, accurate experimental records and ensure data integrity and traceability.

Essential Education and Experience

• Education

  • Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience, or

  • M.S. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or

  • B.S. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or Biochemistry with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience.

• Experience and Required Qualifications

  • Proven ability to work safely and independently within a laboratory setting.

  • Advanced technical expertise in analytical techniques, particularly chromatography.

  • Demonstrated experience developing and optimizing analytical methods for diverse analytes (e.g., small molecules, proteins, fermentation products) in complex matrices using UPLC, IC, and GC coupled with MS.

  • Strong proficiency in generating, interpreting, and reporting high‑quality data within defined timelines.

  • Demonstrated troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills with a high level of attention to detail.

  • Effective communicator with the ability to anticipate project needs, estimate resource requirements, and collaborate across disciplines.

  • Self‑motivated, highly organized, and capable of prioritizing tasks in a dynamic research environment.

Desirable Criteria

• Hands‑on experience with Agilent instrumentation, including UHPLC, LC‑MS (QQQ, QTOF), micro‑GC, GC‑MS, ICP‑OES, and associated software (OpenLab CDS, MassHunter).

• Familiarity with Thermo IC‑MS instrumentation and Chromeleon software.

• Experience with Bruker FTIR instrumentation and Opus software.

• Familiarity with current proteomics and metabolomics workflows.

• Experience with compositional feedstock analysis techniques, including elemental analysis (ICP‑OES, CHNS).

• Familiarity with Benchling electronic lab notebook (ELN).

Behaviors and Ways of Working

• Demonstrates strong “One Team” behaviors by supporting colleagues, fostering capability development, recognizing the contributions of others, and prioritizing team success.

• Exhibits strong “Respect” behaviors by valuing diverse perspectives, building trust through open communication, and contributing to an inclusive workplace environment.

• Maintains an excellent safety record and consistently follows complex standard operating procedures.

Travel – up to 10%. Travel between the various locations (in the UK, US, Europe, India, and China) may be required.

How much do we pay (Base)? (102,000.00  & 189,000.00 USD) 

*Note that the base pay range listed for this position is a good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible base compensation at the time of posting.

We offer a reward and wellbeing package to enable your work to fit with your life. These can include, but are not limited to, access to health, vision and dental insurance, flexible working schedule, paid time off policy, discretionary annual bonus program, long-term incentive program, and a generous 401K matching program. You may learn more about our generous benefits at benefits@bp.

Why join bp:
At bp, we support our people to learn and grow in a diverse and challenging environment. We believe that our team is strengthened by diversity. We are committed to encouraging an inclusive environment in which everyone is respected and treated fairly.
There are many aspects of our employees’ lives that are meaningful, so we offer benefits to enable your work to fit with your life. These benefits can include flexible working options, a generous paid parental leave policy, and excellent retirement benefits, among others!