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

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology; Calgary; On-site; CAD 64,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Laboratory Technician III to join their innovative team. In this role, you will conduct high-pressure, high-temperature experiments to analyze reservoir fluid properties, supporting crucial oil and gas exploration efforts. You will operate specialized laboratory equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards while delivering accurate data. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a cutting-edge research environment, where your expertise will directly contribute to advancing technologies. If you are detail-oriented and passionate about petroleum engineering, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of lab research experience in petroleum engineering or related fields.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail required for fluid analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct HPHT experiments and analyze reservoir fluid properties.
• Operate specialized lab equipment and ensure data accuracy.
• Prepare analytical reports and manage sample inventory.

Skills

WHIMS

PVT analysis

Fluid phase behavior

Reservoir fluid sampling

HPHT laboratory equipment

Gas chromatographs

Viscometers

Thermodynamics

Fluid mechanics

Petroleum chemistry

Analytical software

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Ability to work under pressure

Confidentiality

Collaboration

Education

Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology

Diploma in Power Engineering Technology

Diploma in Petroleum Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

Gas Chromatography

Coriolis flow meters

Densitometers

Nuclear magnetic resonance

Dean Stark apparatus

High-pressure pumps

Vacuum pumps

Spectrometers (FTIR, UV-Vis)

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 developing novel technologies. As one of Canada’s top applied-research colleges, SAIT boasts 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and dedicated research staff committed to advancing products from concept to prototype.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician III Pressure-Volume-Temperature-Compositional (PVTC) to analyze reservoir fluid properties, supporting oil and gas exploration and production. Key responsibilities include conducting high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) experiments such as PVT analysis, phase behavior studies, and compositional analysis of hydrocarbons. The technician 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.

Additionally, strong project management skills, confidentiality, and adherence to SAIT’s non-disclosure policies are required for success in this role.

The Role

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

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation

• PVT Cells
• Gas Chromatography
• Viscometers
• Densimeters
• High-pressure pumps
• Vacuum pumps
• Spectrometers (FTIR, UV-Vis)
• Digital Pressure and Temperature Sensors
• Separator test equipment
• Dehydrators and Mercury-free gas compressors

Track Consumables and Materials

• Monitor consumables used in research activities
• Prepare invoices for industry partners
• Order and maintain necessary materials for continuous lab operation

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

• Experience with WHIMS
• Proficiency in PVT analysis, fluid phase behavior, and reservoir fluid sampling
• Experience with HPHT laboratory equipment
• Knowledge of gas chromatographs and viscometers
• Understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and petroleum chemistry
• Laboratory safety protocols
• Proficiency with analytical software
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• High confidentiality and discretion
• Willingness to learn new methods and adapt workflows
• Ability to collaborate effectively with teams and manage change

Additional Details

• 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, collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Your future begins here at SAIT.

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, Indigenous peoples, racialized groups, persons with disabilities, and members of gender and sexually diverse communities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.

We are committed to accommodating applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Talent Advisor for support.

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