Trade union representatives in the oil sector are calling for the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) to address the stringent and complex job requirements imposed by private oil companies, especially those in which KPC holds significant shares.

Recent job announcements by EQUATE Petrochemical Company have sparked controversy. Despite the Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC), a KPC subsidiary, owning a 42.5% stake in EQUATE, the job listing did not specify that applicants need to be Kuwaiti citizens. This omission has raised questions about KPC's influence in the hiring process.

The job requirements for a position at EQUATE have been criticized for being excessively demanding. The basic qualification is a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, but applicants must also meet several additional criteria:

Experience: 5-8 years in accounting, including financial reporting and accounting settlements.

Skills: Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP), advanced Excel skills, and expertise in preparing and reviewing financial statements.

Additional Preferences: Experience with internationally recognized auditing firms and accounting qualifications such as CPA or ACCA are preferred.

The complexity of these requirements has led some to believe that the job advertisement may be aimed at a select group of candidates.