Fuel Blending Specialist – Marine Gas Oil (MGO)

About the Role

We are looking for a knowledgeable and skilled Fuel Blending Specialist experienced in Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and petroleum fuel formulation. This role requires significant expertise in refinery or terminal operations, an understanding of marine fuel standards, and the capability to develop and improve blending recipes that comply with both regulatory standards and commercial requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Create, implement, and refine MGO and marine fuel blending programs to satisfy ISO 8217 and other relevant marine standards.
• Formulate and manage blending recipes for different fuel grades to ensure product uniformity and conformance.
• Supervise blending activities including selection of components, calculating ratios, and verifying quality.
• Perform laboratory analyses and evaluate test results such as viscosity, density, sulfur content, flash point, and cloud point.
• Collaborate closely with supply chain, procurement, and logistics teams to guarantee feedstock availability and timely product delivery.
• Manage quality control systems ensuring all fuels meet client specifications and global standards.
• Identify and solve off-spec product issues, conduct root cause analyses, and implement corrective measures.
• Maintain detailed blending records, batch reports, and regulatory documentation.
• Keep abreast of international marine fuel regulations including IMO 2020 sulfur cap and MARPOL directives.
• Communicate with clients, surveyors, and port authorities concerning fuel quality and certification matters.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Chemistry, or a related discipline is required.
• At least 5 to 7 years of practical experience in fuel blending, particularly focused on MGO or marine fuels.
• Comprehensive knowledge of marine fuel types such as MGO, MDO, VLSFO, HSFO, and related ISO 8217 standards.
• Understanding of blending materials, including gasoil, distillates, and residual fuel streams.
• Experience working within refinery, terminal, or fuel storage and distribution environments.
• Strong grasp of quality control procedures and standard laboratory testing techniques.
• Good knowledge of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) guidelines and safe petroleum product handling.

Preferred Skills and Certifications

• Familiarity with IMO 2020 low sulfur fuel mandates and MARPOL Annex VI regulations.
• Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or blending optimization software.
• Industry certifications related to petroleum testing or fuel quality such as IP or ASTM standards.

Skills and Competencies

• Expert understanding of MGO and marine fuel blending techniques.
• Strong analytical aptitude and effective problem-solving capabilities.
• High attention to detail with dedication to maintaining product quality.
• Ability to perform efficiently under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
• Knowledge of ASTM and IP testing standards.

Working Environment

• Position is based in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, Dammam.
• Work is conducted in operational settings such as fuel terminals, refineries, or blending facilities.
• May require shift work or availability for on-call duties depending on operational demands.
• Strict adherence to workplace HSE policies and procedures is required.

Compensation and Benefits

• The salary offered is competitive and commensurate with the candidate’s experience.
• Performance-related incentives included.
• Benefits include medical insurance and entitlement to annual leave.