Senior Chemist (Lubricants)

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Chemist (Lubricants)with hands-on experience in both basic and advanced testing of used , fresh lubricants and Grease. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in lubricant chemistry, a deep understanding of oil degradation mechanisms, and a commitment to laboratory quality assurance. This role is critical in supporting product quality, condition monitoring, and failure diagnostics across a wide range of industrial and automotive applications.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee a comprehensive range of tests on fresh and used lubricants, grease , such as :

• Basic Tests:
• Kinematic viscosity (ASTM D445)
• Total Acid Number (TAN, ASTM D664)
• Total Base Number (TBN, ASTM D2896/D4739)
• Water content (Karl Fischer, ASTM D6304)
• Flash point (ASTM D92/D93)
• Density and specific gravity (ASTM D4052)
• Advanced Tests:
• Elemental analysis via ICP-OES (ASTM D5185)
• FTIR spectroscopy for oxidation, nitration, sulfation (ASTM E2412)
• Particle count and cleanliness (ISO 4406, ASTM D7647)
• RULER (Remaining Useful Life Evaluation Routine)
• RPVOT (Rotating Pressure Vessel Oxidation Test, ASTM D2272)
• Ferrography and analytical ferrography
• Foam, demulsibility, and air release properties
• Other Advanced tests in Lubricant formulation

The incumbent should be able to recommend appropriate test methods to customer as well as provide technical guidance

On selection of right methods to customer pertaining to the product group.

• Familiar with the typical range of values and able to review laboratory tested results in a systematic manner

To identify outliers, abnormal values

Ensure all testing is performed in accordance with ASTM, ISO, and internal SOPs.

• Participate in laboratory quality control programs, including:
• Calibration and maintenance of instruments
• Use of control samples and proficiency testing
• Documentation and traceability of test results
• Support audits and continuous improvement initiatives related to ISO 17025 or equivalent quality systems.
• Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instruments including viscometers, titrators, ICP, FTIR, GC, and particle counters.
• Assist in the development and validation of new test methods or modifications to existing procedures.
• Bachelor’s/master’s degree in chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.

Qualification and Experience

• Minimum 2–5 years of hands-on experience in lubricant testing, preferably in a commercial or industrial lab.
• Testing experience for Oil major is an added advantage
• Strong familiarity with ASTM and ISO test methods for lubricants and used oil analysis.
• Demonstrated experience with both routine and advanced analytical techniques.
• Solid understanding of lubricant formulation, degradation mechanisms, and tribological principles.
• Working knowledge of laboratory quality systems (e.g., ISO 17025) and good laboratory practices (GLP).
• Proficient in data analysis, technical writing, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Certification in oil analysis (e.g., ICML MLA I/II, STLE OMA).
• Experience with condition monitoring programs or reliability-centered maintenance.
• Exposure to a variety of lubricant types (engine oils, hydraulic fluids, gear oils, turbine oils, etc.).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹20,000.00 - ₹50,000.00 per month

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Leave encashment
• Provident Fund

Schedule:

• Day shift

Experience:

• total work: 3 years (Required)

Language:

• English (Required)

Location:

• Tambaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person