Laboratory Technician III Researcher - Special Core Analysis (SCAL)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Laboratory Technician III Researcher to enhance oil and gas recovery methods through advanced rock core testing and reservoir characterization. This role involves conducting SCAL experiments, analyzing core data, and collaborating with engineers and geoscientists on innovative energy transition projects. Candidates should possess strong analytical and project management skills, along with a passion for innovation and a commitment to confidentiality. Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to applied research and innovation, where your contributions will help shape the future of energy solutions.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of lab research experience in petroleum engineering or related fields.
• Strong analytical skills and project management experience required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced rock core testing and reservoir characterization.
• Collaborate with industry engineers on EOR and reservoir simulation projects.

Skills

WHIMS

Core analysis

Reservoir petrophysics

Applied laboratory research

SCAL experience

Knowledge of relative permeability

Hands-on experience with HPHT core flood systems

Report writing

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology

Power Engineering Technology

Petroleum Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering

Tools

Core flooding rigs

Centrifuges

MICP

Petrographic microscopes

Job description

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department assists partners in conceptualizing, prototyping, and delivering products to market. ARIS is at the forefront of novel technology development. As one of Canada’s top applied research colleges, SAIT boasts 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and dedicated full-time research staff to support organizations in transforming concepts into prototypes.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician III Researcher - Special Core Analysis (SCAL) to conduct advanced rock core testing and reservoir characterization within an applied research setting. This role emphasizes fluid flow, petrophysical properties, and multiphase interactions in reservoir rocks to enhance oil and gas recovery methods. Responsibilities include performing SCAL experiments, analyzing core data, and collaborating with industry engineers and geoscientists on EOR, reservoir simulation, and energy transition projects. The candidate will design, build, and execute experimental tests.

Successful candidates will possess strong analytical skills, project management experience, attention to detail, and a passion for innovation. The role requires strict confidentiality and adherence to SAIT’s non-disclosure policies.

The Role

1. Lab Activities
2. Define scope and objectives for experiments based on directions
3. Determine fluid mobility properties
4. Formation Properties: porosity, relative permeability, capillary pressure, wettability, resistivity index measurements
5. Conduct tracer studies, CT imaging, NMR, and digital rock analysis to characterize pore-scale properties
6. Design and perform high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) core flooding experiments for multiphase flow analysis
7. Calibrate and operate precision pumps
8. Manage centrifuge operations
9. Prepare and analyze radio-isotopes for fluid tracing
10. Optimize protocols for EOR techniques
11. Prepare and review water chemistry analysis in 3P labs
12. Manage sample inventory and prioritize testing
13. Disseminate data to industry partners
14. Collaborate with reservoir engineers to integrate SCAL data into simulations and history matching
15. Use software tools for petrophysical analysis, permeability calculations, and modeling
16. Prepare technical reports, publications, and presentations
17. Stay updated on emerging SCAL methodologies and industry advancements

Laboratory Operations & Instrumentation

1. Operate and maintain core flooding rigs, centrifuges, MICP, and petrographic microscopes
2. Ensure calibration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of lab equipment
3. Follow safety standards and best practices for pressurized systems and hazardous fluids

Track Consumables and Materials

1. Monitor consumable usage
2. Prepare invoices for industry partners
3. Order supplies and maintain stock for continuous lab operations

Qualifications & Experience

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

• Preferred: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a senior technical role; 5+ years in a senior petroleum engineering role

Skills Required

• WHIMS
• Core analysis, reservoir petrophysics
• Applied laboratory research and SCAL experience
• Knowledge of relative permeability, capillary pressure, wettability, rock-fluid interactions
• Hands-on experience with HPHT core flood systems, CT scanning, petrographic techniques
• Report writing and documentation skills
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and maintain confidentiality
• Adaptability to new ideas and methods
• Teamwork and collaboration skills

Job classification: Technologist III

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

Number of positions: 1

Hours per week: 40

Posting closing date: Until position is filled

About SAIT

SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the opportunity 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 starts now at SAIT.

We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). We encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, and those from gender and sexually diverse communities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.

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