Process Technician – Pilot Plant / Laboratory

Location: Advanced Biofuels Center, Calgary, Alberta  

About Steeper Energy

Steeper Energy is at the forefront of developing advanced biofuel technologies that transform low-value biomass, including forestry residues, agricultural by-products, and urban waste into high-quality renewable fuels. Our proprietary Hydrofaction® process accelerates natural geological processes to produce a renewable crude oil with high energy density, designed to integrate seamlessly into today’s energy infrastructure.

Our Advanced Biofuels Centre in Calgary is dedicated to advancing pilot-scale research and development, focusing on upgrading Hydrofaction® Oil into renewable fuels and chemicals, as well as exploring co-processing opportunities with refinery feedstocks.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Process Technician – Pilot Plant / Laboratory to support the operation, maintenance, and construction of pilot-scale process units. This role is highly practical, requiring hands-on skills in mechanical and chemical process systems, as well as a strong focus on safety and teamwork. This is a full-time position with the possibility of shift work.

The successful candidate will contribute to R&D activities, help troubleshoot pilot operations, and ensure reliable and safe execution of experimental runs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot pilot-scale and laboratory process equipment.
  • Perform start-up, shut-down, and routine operations of pumps, valves, and instrumentation.
  • Assist in building and modifying process setups for experimental studies.
  • Collect samples, perform basic laboratory analyses, and record process data.
  • Support optimization of operating conditions and reliability of pilot trials.
  • Ensure compliance with safety procedures, WHMIS standards, and company protocols.
  • Provide general support for laboratory and plant activities as directed.

Required Qualifications

  • Technical diploma or equivalent training in Process, Chemical, Petroleum, or Mechanical Technology.
  • Hands-on experience with pilot or lab-scale process units.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate and maintain pumps, valves, and instrumentation.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and a practical, problem-solving approach.
  • Dependable, detail-oriented, and safety-conscious.
  • Effective communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
  • Comfortable working in a collaborative team environment.
  • WHMIS and H2S Alive certifications are an asset.
  • Prior exposure to refinery or upgrading processes is considered an advantage.

What We Offer

  • Opportunity to work with a diverse and motivated team committed to commercializing breakthrough biofuel technologies.
  • Direct involvement in pilot-scale operations and R&D activities in advanced biofuels.
  • A dynamic workplace with opportunities to learn, innovate, and contribute.
  • Interaction with international colleagues and potential travel to partner sites.
  • A challenging yet rewarding environment where initiative and creativity are encouraged.

Eligibility

Candidates must be legally entitled to work in Canada at the time of employment. Proof of eligibility may include Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid work permit. Documentation must be current and valid, and will be required before the start date of employment.

Application deadline: Posting will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

Interested applicants are asked to forward their resume and cover letter to careers@steeperenergy.com or apply through LinkedIn.

Steeper Energy is committed to providing equitable treatment and equal opportunity to all individuals. In certain situations, Steeper may use your application to consider your suitability for other positions in the company.