Commissioning Operator – Air Separation Unit

Aplin; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 83,000; Part time

Job summary

Aplin is supporting our client in Edmonton, AB to find an experienced Commissioning Operator for an Air Separation Unit (ASU) project. This hands-on role covers start-up, testing and stabilization to bring the unit to full production while meeting safety standards.

You will work closely with a commissioning coordinator, perform energy isolations, SWPs, and field troubleshooting of cryogenic equipment such as main and booster compressors and cold box cooldown.

Qualifications

• Hands-on operating experience with cryogenic Air Separation Units (ASUs).
• Experience in industrial commissioning and start-up activities.
• Strong understanding of safety procedures and permit practices.

Responsibilities

• Support commissioning and start-up of the ASU, including initial equipment start-up and testing.
• Follow plans, procedures, and safety requirements for energizing and operating the unit.
• Assist with CC/MC walkdowns and SWP issuance; provide daily progress updates.
• Troubleshoot systems and verify performance during commissioning and start-up.
• Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and the commissioning team on site.
• Transition the ASU from commissioning to operational readiness.

Skills

Cryogenic operation

Commissioning experience

Safety procedures

Troubleshooting

Education

4th Class Power Engineer certification

Job description

Aplin is supporting our client in finding an experienced Commissioning Operator – Air Separation Unit (ASU) to support a major industrial project in Edmonton, AB.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on industrial operator with experience in cryogenic air separation units and industrial commissioning. The successful candidate will play a key role in the initial start‑up, testing and stabilization of the Air Separation Unit, ensuring equipment and systems are safely commissioned and brought to full production capacity in accordance with project specifications and safety standards.

Position Details

• Location: Edmonton, AB
• Work Environment: Project field-based
• Duration: December 7, 2026 – December 6, 2027
• Hours: 40 hours per week
• Employment Type: Contract
• Pay Type: Hourly

Key Responsibilities

Commissioning & Start-Up

• Support the commissioning and start-up of the Air Separation Unit (ASU), including initial equipment start-up, testing and operational stabilization.
• Work closely with the ASU Commissioning Coordinator to understand commissioning and start‑up plans, system commissioning packages and procedures.
• Execute commissioning and start‑up procedures to ensure equipment is safely energized, tested and operating according to design specifications.
• Support Construction Complete (CC) and Mechanical Complete (MC) system walkdowns.
• Install energy isolations and issue Safety Work Permits (SWPs), as required.
• Follow direction from the ASU CSU Coordinator and provide daily progress reports.

Field Operations & Technical Support

• Support the commissioning of critical cryogenic equipment, including main and booster air compressors, companders, cryogenic pumps and cold box cooldown.
• Troubleshoot equipment and verify system performance throughout commissioning and start‑up activities.
• Redline Operations Site Work Instruction Manuals (SWIMs), also known as Operating Procedures, to reflect operational requirements and updates.
• Support and manage vendors and contractors while on‑site, monitoring progress and addressing technical issues.
• Ensure field activities are completed in accordance with Air Products safety standards and project procedures.
• Apply hands‑on operational knowledge to support safe and efficient commissioning activities.

Leadership, Training & Collaboration

• Work closely with commissioning coordinators, vendors, contractors and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Share commissioning experience, technical knowledge and operational expertise with less experienced team members.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to other members of the commissioning team.
• Support the training and competency development of Operations personnel.
• Assist with the transition of the ASU from commissioning and start‑up into operational readiness.

Qualifications & Experience

• 4th Class Power Engineer certification (minimum required).
• Minimum 3–5 years of hands‑on operating experience with cryogenic Air Separation Units (ASUs).
• Previous experience in an industrial project commissioning or start‑up role is highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of cryogenic air separation processes and operations.
• Knowledge of distillation processes and molecular sieve technology, including Temperature Swing Adsorption (TSA).
• Experience troubleshooting industrial equipment and supporting complex commissioning activities.
• Understanding of Safety Work Permits (SWPs) and energy isolation procedures.
• Knowledge of high‑pressure pure oxygen systems, including cleanliness protocols and associated safety requirements.

Technical Experience Considered an Asset

Experience or technical knowledge in the following areas would be highly valued:

• Cryogenic Air Separation Units (ASUs).
• Cryogenic distillation processes.
• Molecular sieve technology and Temperature Swing Adsorption (TSA).
• Main and booster air compressors.
• Companders and cryogenic pumps.
• Cold box commissioning and cooldown procedures.
• High‑pressure pure oxygen systems and oxygen cleanliness requirements.
• Industrial gas processing facilities.

Required Safety Certifications

Candidates must hold current safety training and certifications, including:

• Construction Safety Training System (CSTS-20).
• Basic Scaffold Safety.
• Fall Protection.
• Confined Space Entry & Monitoring.
• WHMIS.
• H?S Alive.

Why Work with Aplin?

Aplin connects skilled professionals with meaningful opportunities across Canada’s leading industries. Our team works closely with clients and candidates to support successful placements and provide guidance throughout the recruitment process.

If you are an experienced industrial operator with hands‑on cryogenic Air Separation Unit experience and a background in commissioning and start‑up activities, we’d love to hear from you!

At Aplin — together with our brands CompuStaff, Impact Recruitment, and Vantix Systems — we connect great people with great organizations across North America. We believe diverse teams build stronger companies, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We use AI tools to assist in a fair and efficient matching process, helping our recruiters connect the right people with the right opportunities. To be considered, applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any required permits. Our recruitment services are always free for job seekers. Accommodation is available upon request throughout all stages of the recruitment process.