Darran Wilks

A highly experienced, pragmatic, self-motivated, versatile and intuitive analytical chemist, both onshore and offshore. A critical thinker and problem solver who enjoys and thrives working under pressure in remote, high-pressure environments. Academic credentials and experience in analytical chemistry obtained in well-known laboratories. Highly competent in operating and maintaining a wide range of analytical instrumentation.

Ah-Hoc Offshore Laboratory Technician at Semco Maritime for Total Energies (2026-01 – Present)

• Conducting Oil in Water analysis, Basic Sediment and Water analysis, Determination of Hydrogen Sulphide and Carbon Dioxide content in gas phase, Milliequivalent, Copper, Iron and Chloride antifouling, Bacterial testing (Labege), and diesel draining of cranes.
• Chemical Management.
• Karl Fischer measurements.
• IR, UV/vis and IR measurements.
• Calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Permit to work.

QC Analyst at Lianhetech Europe (2024-11 – 2025-12)

• Conducted quality control tests using HPLC, ICP-OES, GC, IC, Karl Fisher, UV/vis Spectroscopy, IR Spectroscopy and wet chemistry techniques, ensuring product compliance and significantly improving safety standards across all batches.
• Calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Preparation and verification of standards used in analysis.
• Partnered with cross-functional teams to resolve quality issues, cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and strengthening accountability.
• Maintained comprehensive documentation of test results, ensuring traceability and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Implemented innovative testing protocols that enhanced workflow efficiency, resulting in marked gains in turnaround times and overall productivity.

Offshore Lead Chemist at Benchmark Animal Health (2021-04 – 2024-08)

• Led chemistry team to ensure safe discharge of sea water, enhancing environmental compliance and minimizing ecological impact.
• Prepared and verified analysis standards while training team members, fostering a culture of quality and effective teamwork.
• Calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Analysed test results to identify trends, enhancing product quality and driving informed decisions for operational improvements.
• Monitored Well Boat samples meticulously, achieving substantial improvements in safety protocols and minimizing contamination risks.
• Analysed dosage confirmations and environmental samples, enabling data-driven decisions that supported stringent regulatory adherence.
• Maintained precise documentation of experimental results, ensuring compliance with industry standards and facilitating successful audits.
• Mentored chemists in best practices, cultivating a knowledgeable team that drives continuous improvement and innovation.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot quality issues, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and shared accountability.
• Managed routine laboratory stock control, ensuring resource availability and contributing to uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Preparation of SOP's and training.

BSc (Hons) in Chemistry – University of Exeter (1999-10 – 2004-07)

A-Level in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics – North Devon College (1996-09 – 1999-08)

A/S Level in Further Mathematics – North Devon College (1996-09 – 1999-08)

GCSE in Mathematics and English Language – North Devon College (1995-09 – 1996-08)