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Principal Chemist – Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR)

Location: Houston TX 77047

About ZL Chemicals USA

ZL Chemicals USA is part of ZL Chemicals Group, a global leader in high-performance polymer and chemical manufacturing serving the energy and industrial sectors. With operations across the United States, Canada, and the Gulf region, we develop advanced polymer, surfactant, and friction reducer technologies that enhance efficiency, performance, and reliability in oilfield applications. As we continue to expand our Technology Team, we are seeking an experienced Principal Chemist – Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) to support the development of next-generation chemical solutions for the energy industry.

Position Summary

The Principal Chemist will provide scientific and technical leadership in the development, evaluation, and commercialization of surfactant-based Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) technologies. This position is responsible for leading laboratory research, supporting field implementation, improving product quality, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, customer-focused chemical solutions.

The ideal candidate combines expertise in surfactant chemistry, formulation development, laboratory testing, quality management systems, and oilfield operations with excellent technical communication and problem-solving skills.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Development & Laboratory Leadership

• Design, execute, and interpret laboratory studies to evaluate surfactant formulations for Enhanced Oil Recovery applications.
• Lead routine surfactant laboratory testing programs, including sample preparation, experimental design, data analysis, and technical reporting.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, test records, and performance databases in accordance with company and industry standards.
• Support formulation optimization and product performance assessments under reservoir-relevant conditions.

Quality Assurance & Quality Control

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) programs for surfactant products and laboratory operations.
• Establish and maintain robust Quality Management Systems (QMS) to ensure compliance with internal standards, customer requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, procurement, and external suppliers to ensure consistent product quality and specification compliance.
• Investigate product and process quality issues, conduct root-cause analyses, and implement corrective and preventive actions.

Field Implementation Support

• Support field testing and commercial deployment of surfactant EOR technologies.
• Provide technical expertise during field operations and troubleshoot performance-related challenges.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline required.
• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in surfactant formulation development and laboratory testing.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in Quality Assurance, Quality Control, or Quality Engineering within a manufacturing or chemical production environment preferred.
• Strong understanding of laboratory testing methodologies, quality management systems, and technical documentation practices.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex technical data and communicate findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Excellent presentation, technical writing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Willingness to travel domestically to support field trials and technology implementation activities.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay: $100,000–$130,000 USD annually, based on experience and qualifications
  
• Annual performance bonus opportunities
• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance and 401K
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career advancement opportunities
• Professional development and technical training
• Collaborative, innovation-focused work environment

Additional Requirements

• Must successfully pass a pre-employment background check.
• Must successfully pass a drug and alcohol screening.
• Ability to work safely in laboratory, manufacturing, and field environments.