Laboratory Technician III Pressure-Volume-Temperature-Compositional (PVTC)

SAIT; Calgary; On-site; CAD 64,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Laboratory Technician III to join their innovative Applied Research and Innovation Services team. This role involves conducting high-pressure, high-temperature experiments and analyzing reservoir fluid properties to support oil and gas exploration. The ideal candidate will have a diploma in relevant fields and a passion for meticulous research and safety. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this organization offers a collaborative environment where your contributions will directly impact the future of energy. Join a team that values innovation and excellence in applied education.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of lab research experience in petroleum engineering.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential.
• Experience with WHIMS and reservoir fluid sampling preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-pressure, high-temperature experiments and PVT analysis.
• Operate and maintain specialized laboratory equipment.
• Prepare analytical reports and manage sample inventory.

Skills

PVT analysis

Fluid phase behavior studies

Operating HPHT laboratory equipment

Gas chromatographs proficiency

Thermodynamics knowledge

Fluid mechanics understanding

Laboratory safety protocols

Analytical software proficiency

Excellent communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology

Diploma in Power Engineering Technology

Diploma in Petroleum Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Gas chromatographs

Viscometers

PVT cells

Nuclear magnetic resonance

Centrifuge

Dean Stark apparatus

Job description

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department supports partners in conceptualizing, prototyping, and delivering products to market. ARIS is at the forefront of technological development. As one of Canada’s leading applied-research colleges, SAIT offers 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and dedicated research staff to assist organizations in transitioning their products from concept to prototype.

The Opportunity

As a Laboratory Technician III Pressure-Volume-Temperature-Compositional (PVTC), you will play a vital role in analyzing reservoir fluid properties to support oil and gas exploration and production. Your responsibilities include conducting high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) experiments, PVT analysis, phase behavior studies, and compositional analysis of hydrocarbons. You will operate and maintain specialized laboratory equipment, ensure data accuracy, and comply with industry safety and quality standards. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of petroleum fluid behavior are essential for success.

We value strong analytical skills, project management experience, attention to detail, and a passion for innovation. This role requires strict confidentiality and adherence to SAIT’s non-disclosure policies.

The Role

1. Lab Activities
2. Define scope and objectives of experiments
3. Fluid characterization: PVTC
4. Design and evaluate field projects using PVTC in field pilot tests
5. Assess heavy oil phase behavior, including solubility, viscosity, and density
6. Investigate heavy oil and solvent mixtures
7. Calibrate advanced measurement systems such as nuclear magnetic resonance, gas chromatographs, rotary evaporators
8. Perform fluid property analyses
9. Conduct water cut analysis using centrifuge methods
10. Distill fluid samples with Dean Stark apparatus
11. Manage sample inventory and testing priorities
12. Prepare analytical reports

1. Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation
2. Operate PVT cells, gas chromatographs, viscometers, densimeters, high-pressure and vacuum pumps, spectrometers (FTIR, UV-Vis), pressure and temperature sensors, separator test equipment, dehydrators, and mercury-free gas compressors

1. Track Consumables and Materials
2. Monitor consumables usage
3. Prepare invoices for industry partners
4. Order and maintain materials for continuous lab operations

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology, Power Engineering Technology, or Petroleum Engineering
• Minimum 3 years of laboratory research experience in petroleum engineering, geology, geophysics, or chemical engineering

• Preferred:
• Bachelor's degree or combined education and experience in a senior technical role
• Over 5 years of experience in a senior petroleum engineering role

Skills Required

• Experience with WHIMS, PVT analysis, fluid phase behavior studies, reservoir fluid sampling
• Experience operating HPHT laboratory equipment
• Proficiency with gas chromatographs and viscometers
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and petroleum chemistry
• Laboratory safety protocols knowledge
• Analytical software proficiency
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work under high pressure
• High confidentiality and discretion
• Willingness to learn new methods and adapt workflows
• Effective teamwork and change management skills

Job classification: Technologist III

Salary range: $64,625.60 - $83,928.00

Number of positions: 1

Hours per week: 40

Posting closing date: Open until filled

About SAIT

SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer opportunities to work with purpose—preparing future industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates, and explorers.

With over 100 years of history, we seek innovative, bold, and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Your future begins here at SAIT.

We value diversity and inclusion (EDI) as essential to achieving our vision. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, racialized groups, persons with disabilities, gender and sexually diverse communities, and intersectional identities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.

SAIT is committed to supporting applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process and will work with candidates to provide accommodations upon request.

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