Tester

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.

Knowledge 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.