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

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

Job summary

SAIT is seeking a Laboratory Technician III for its Applied Research and Innovation Services. This role involves analyzing reservoir fluid properties to support oil and gas exploration. Candidates should have strong analytical skills and relevant experience in petroleum engineering. The position requires a diploma in a related field and offers a competitive salary range.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of lab research experience in petroleum engineering or related fields.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferred.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

WHIMS

Fluid Mechanics

Petroleum Chemistry

Analytical Software Proficiency

Strong Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Problem Solving

Education

Chemical Engineering Technology

Power Engineering Technology

Petroleum Engineering Diploma

Tools

Gas Chromatographs

Viscometers

Densimeters

High-Pressure Pumps

Vacuum Pumps

Spectrometers

Job description

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype, and deliver products to market. ARIS is at the forefront of innovative technology development. As one of Canada's leading applied-research colleges, SAIT offers 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and dedicated full-time research staff to support organizations 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 such as PVT analysis, phase behavior studies, and compositional analysis of hydrocarbons. You will operate and maintain specialized laboratory equipment, ensure data accuracy, and adhere to industry safety and quality standards. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of petroleum fluid behavior are essential for success.

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

The Role

1. Lab Activities
2. Follow directions for experiment scope and objectives
3. Conduct fluid characterization: PVTC
4. Design and evaluate field projects using PVTC in field pilot tests
5. Evaluate 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 chromatograph, rotary evaporator
8. Perform fluid property analysis and water cut analysis using centrifuge methods
9. Distill fluid samples with Dean Stark apparatus
10. Manage sample inventory and testing priorities
11. Prepare analytical reports

1. Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation
2. Operate PVT Cells, Gas Chromatography, Viscometers, Densimeters
3. Use high-pressure pumps, vacuum pumps, spectrometers (FTIR, UV-Vis), digital sensors, separator test equipment, dehydrators, and mercury-free gas compressors

1. Track Consumables, Ordering Materials
2. Monitor consumables used in research
3. Prepare invoices for industry partners
4. Order and maintain necessary materials for continuous lab operation

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Chemical Engineering Technology, Power Engineering Technology, or Petroleum Engineering diploma
• At least 3 years of lab research experience in petroleum engineering, geology, geophysics, or chemical engineering

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a senior technical role
• Over 5 years of experience in a senior petroleum engineering role

Skills Required

• WHIMS
• Experience with PVT analysis, fluid phase behavior studies, reservoir fluid sampling
• Experience with HPHT lab equipment, gas chromatographs, viscometers
• Understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, petroleum chemistry
• Laboratory safety protocols
• Analytical software proficiency
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work under high pressure
• High organizational skills and problem-solving abilities
• Confidentiality and discretion
• Willingness to learn new methods, adapt workflows, and collaborate effectively

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 are dedicated to preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates, and explorers.

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

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

SAIT supports persons with disabilities during the recruitment process and provides accommodations upon request.

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