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Refinery Laboratory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kern Energy

Tester

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$35.02/hr

Other Position Summary Kern Energy is seeking a Tester who performs laboratory testing and analysis of refinery raw materials, intermediate products, and finished products to ensure compliance with ...

New

Microbac

Laboratory Assistant

Arcata, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

We embody a company-wide commitment to exceptional customer experience, which has been refined by ... Execute a variety of non-technical but essential laboratory tasks necessary to complete testing ...

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Refinery Laboratory information

What is a refinery laboratory?

A Refinery Laboratory job involves testing and analyzing raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. Lab technicians use various instruments to measure chemical composition, viscosity, density, and other properties. They play a crucial role in maintaining refinery efficiency and regulatory compliance. Additionally, they help troubleshoot production issues by identifying contaminants or inconsistencies in samples.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in a refinery laboratory?

As a refinery laboratory professional, your day generally involves collecting and analyzing samples of crude oil, intermediate products, and finished fuels to ensure quality control and regulatory compliance. You will use advanced analytical instruments to perform tests, document results, and communicate findings to engineering or production teams. The role often includes calibrating and maintaining lab equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and adhering to strict safety protocols. You may also participate in cross-functional meetings to address quality concerns and optimize refining processes, making collaboration and communication skills essential for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the refinery laboratory position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Refinery Laboratory role, you need a solid understanding of analytical chemistry, refinery processes, and laboratory testing methodologies, often supported by a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as gas chromatographs, spectrometers, and LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems), as well as industry certifications like OSHA safety training, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this setting. These competencies ensure accurate quality control, safe operations, and compliance with industry standards in refinery environments.

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Laboratory jobs in California?

For Refinery Laboratory jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Laboratory jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Laboratory jobs in California are:

Refinery Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Laboratory job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Tester

Kern Energy

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$35.02/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Job Details

Level: Experienced
Job Location: Corporate Office - Bakersfield, CA 93307
Position Type: Full Time
Education Level: 4 Year Degree
Salary Range: $35.02 - $35.02 Hourly
Travel Percentage: None
Job Shift: Rotating 12-hour Shift
Job Category: Other

Position Summary

Kern Energy is seeking a Tester who performs laboratory testing and analysis of refinery raw materials, intermediate products, and finished products to ensure compliance with quality, regulatory, and operational requirements. This position operates and maintains laboratory instrumentation, performs calibration and quality control activities, manages testing data within LIMS, and supports the Kern Laboratory Quality Control Program. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern's core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Job Function
  • Maintain a safe, clean laboratory environment and properly handle hazardous materials and waste.
  • Prioritize work assignments and communicate scheduling conflicts to the Lab Supervisor and affected departments.
  • Collect and test finished product, blend component, truck, and railcar samples in accordance with established procedures and testing protocols.
  • Perform routine ASTM testing and operate laboratory instruments according to approved SOPs.
  • Enter, manage, and distribute laboratory results through the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
  • Maintain records and documentation for physical, chemical, and instrumental testing activities.
  • Communicate test results and collaborate with operations, engineering, and laboratory personnel to support refinery performance and problem-solving efforts.
  • Operate, maintain, and verify laboratory instruments, including:
    • Automatic Distillation Units
    • Flash Point Analyzers
    • Density Meters
    • Other analytical laboratory equipment
  • Support calibration, standards verification, and quality control checks to ensure data accuracy and instrument reliability.
  • Maintain laboratory supply and consumable inventories.
  • Support the Quality Control Program and ASTM D6299 requirements.
  • Conduct special testing, prepare reports, and provide laboratory data as requested.
  • Process, retain, and dispose of samples in accordance with laboratory procedures.
  • Comply with laboratory labeling, hazard communication, and safety requirements.
  • Stay current with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and testing methodologies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
QualificationsKnowledge Skills
  • Knowledge of laboratory techniques, chemical analysis, and quality control principles.
  • Familiarity with refinery laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and software applications.
  • Working knowledge of ASTM, UOP, IP, and EPA test methods.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), preferably Baytek Bliss.
  • Ability to operate instrument software interfaces and manage laboratory data.
  • Strong attention to detail and recordkeeping skills.
  • Effective troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and industry standards.
  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Commitment to accuracy, precision, and reliability.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
  • Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts and overtime as required.
  • Refinery, petroleum, chemical, or petrochemical laboratory experience preferred.
Education/ Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field preferred.
  • Associate degree with relevant experience may be considered.
  • Previous laboratory experience preferred.
  • Experience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) preferred.
  • Refinery, petroleum, chemical, or petrochemical laboratory experience preferred.
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