Engineering Student - Planning, U2

Canadian Natural; Fort McMurray; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading oil and gas company is seeking students for a 12-month work term at the Horizon Oil Sands site in Fort McMurray, Alberta. This position offers diverse opportunities to work alongside industry professionals on meaningful projects, focusing on database management and engineering support. Applicants must be currently enrolled in a relevant bachelor’s program and should possess solid programming fundamentals and attention to detail. Competitive compensation and benefits included.

Benefits

Quality camp facilities

Company Sponsored Fly-In/Fly-Out

Relocation assistance available

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a relevant bachelor's program.
• Previous engineering experience considered an asset.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new tools quickly.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Upgrading and Utilities Engineering Team in activities.
• Understand Turnaround Scope Management Processes.

Skills

MS Access Skills

MS Excel Skills

Strong programming fundamentals

Attention to detail

Logical problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science or Data Science

Job description

Trending

Job Description

The Opportunity:

Are you a student looking for an exciting opportunity that is full of meaningful, diverse, and ambitious assignments working alongside industry leading professionals? Join Canadian Natural, where we strive to provide opportunities based on your abilities, helping you to contribute in a meaningful way and apply your academic experience to challenging and rewarding projects!

Our Horizon Oil Sands site is a world‑class asset offering countless opportunities to advance your career. Comprised of surface oil sands mining and bitumen processing and upgrading facilities, this vast project offers challenging opportunities in an environment where teamwork, innovation, and your expertise are valued. Apply your abilities using industry‑leading technologies and contribute to the success of the Horizon and Albian Oil Sands operations.

• Job location: Fort McMurray, Alberta – Horizon Oil Sands Site
• Shift schedule: 4 days on, 3 days off, 10 hours/day (Monday – Thursday)
• Term length: 12 months
• Term start: May 2026
• Safety sensitive position: Yes

Key Accountabilities:

• Assist the Upgrading and Utilities Engineering Team in activities relating to Turning Planning support
• Understand Turnaround Scope Management Processes utilizing the Scope Management Module (Access Database)

MS Access Skills

• Database Design & Development – Structure databases, define relationships and implement normalization for efficiency
• Advanced Access Development – Build forms, queries, reports, and macros to enhance database functionality
• VBA Programming – Automate processes, develop user‑friendly interfaces, and ensure smooth execution with error handling
• SQL Query Optimization – Write, optimize, and troubleshoot SQL queries for data manipulation and reporting
• Database Troubleshooting & Optimization – Identify and resolve performance issues, debug errors, and maintain data integrity
• Collaboration & Documentation – Work with stakeholders, document processes, and provide training for efficient database use

MS Excel Skills

• Data Management & Reporting – Organize, analyze, and visualize data using advanced formulas, PivotTables, and dashboards
• VBA & Macro Automation – Automate repetitive tasks, improve workflows, and enhance efficiency with custom scripts
• Power Query & Data Modeling – Perform Extract, Transform, Load processing, create data models with Power Pivot, and use DAX for advanced analysis
• Optimization & Troubleshooting – Resolve formula errors, optimize large datasets, and improve workbook performance

What You Bring to The Role:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program, or within one year of graduation, in Mechanical Engineering or Computer Science or Data Science
• Previous engineering experience is considered an asset
• Strong programming fundamentals with the ability to learn and adapt to new tools and environments quickly
• Solid understanding of SQL for writing, modifying, and troubleshooting complex queries
• Strong mindset with an attention to detail, logical problem‑solving, ability to work independently, and a willingness to learn

What We Offer:

• Quality camp facilities with multiple amenities available
• Company Sponsored Fly‑In/Fly‑Out from Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta
• Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community
• Students may be eligible for relocation assistance pursuant to Canadian Natural’s Student Relocation Policy (Students will be responsible for finding their own accommodations during the work term)
• Opportunities to partake in initiatives such as the Intern Social Committee

If you are interested in this exciting student work term opportunity, please include your resume, cover letter and unofficial transcripts as part of your online application.

All candidates applying to Canadian Natural must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for the position; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. This posting will close once a successful candidate has been selected.

About Us

Canadian Natural operates one of the largest Campus Recruitment programs in the country, hiring over 400 students every year. Students hired on with us are made to feel a part of the team, gaining high level experience, knowledge, and training that introduces and prepares them for full‑time employment.

Industry Leader: We commenced business in 1989 with a handful of employees and modest production, but today we employ more than 10,000 people and produce over 1 million BOE/d.

Community Investment: Social responsibility is a critical element of our commitment to responsible operations and part of our success and pride as a Company. We are committed to investing in the communities where we live and work, creating shared value along the way.

Compensation and Benefits: We strive to share Company success with all employees through a comprehensive total compensation package.

Our People, Our Stories: Our stories demonstrate the strong culture that exists at Canadian Natural – one that focuses on developing people, working together and doing it right, with fun and integrity.