SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. ARIS is on the leading edge of novel technology development. As one of Canada’s top applied-research colleges, SAIT has 50,000 square feet of specialized research labs, facilities, and full-time research staff who are solely dedicated to providing the services organizations need to take their products from concept to prototype.
The Opportunity
As a Material Performance and Advancement Engineer in applied research at ARIS, you will be responsible for evaluating and enhancing the durability, reliability, and efficiency of materials used in heavy equipment operating in extreme environments. This role involves conducting metallurgical testing, failure analysis, and material characterization to assess the impact of high pressures, temperatures, and corrosive substances on components. You will collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to develop advanced materials, coatings, and treatment processes that improve equipment longevity and performance. Utilizing non-destructive testing (NDT), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical testing, you will identify failure mechanisms, recommend mitigation strategies, and support design improvements. Your expertise in material science and engineering will drive innovation, reduce downtime, and enhance safety in critical oil and gas operations.
Strong analytical skills, project management experience, attention to detail and a passion for innovation are essential for success in this role. This role requires consistent attention to confidentiality and strict adherence to SAIT’s non- disclosure policies.
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The Role
Lab Activities
Take direction for scope and objective of experiments
Develop testing methodologies, verification and validation
Microstructural analysis Using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine grain structure, phase distribution, and defects in metals
Hardness Testing
Mechanical Testing- conducting tensile, impact and fatigue testing to evaluate performance under stress
Failure Analysis – Fractography using SEM and optical microscopy to analyze fracture surfaces and determine failure modes (e.g., fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, brittle fracture)
Chemical Composition Analysis – Employing spectroscopy techniques like Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) or X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) to identify elemental composition and potential contamination.
Corrosion Testing – Simulating field conditions to evaluate corrosion resistance using salt spray tests, electrochemical methods, or high-temperature oxidation studies
Material Characterization and Development - Coating & Surface Treatment Evaluation – Testing advanced coatings, claddings, and surface treatments for improved wear and corrosion resistance
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) – Using ultrasonic, eddy current, or radiographic testing to detect subsurface flaws without damaging components
Responsible for data management and security of data generate within the lab
Collection and dissemination of data to industry partner
Preparation of analytical reports
Preparation of sample specimens using cut-off saw, cutting steel, ceramics, cast-iron and carbides
Metallurgical specimen mounting (hot and cold) and polishing for metallurgical examination
Portable material testing:
Prepare reports and disseminate information as requested by the industry partner, in the format requested by the industry partner
Conduct analysis, document results, make recommendations
Track Consumables, Ordering Materials
Track all consumables used in the execution of the research
Prepare invoices for the industry partner
Order consumables and keep necessary materials and supplies in good order to all for continuous operation of the lab work
Required Qualifications & Experience
Chemical Engineering Technology , Power Engineering Technology, or Petroleum Engineering diploma
3+ years demonstrated lab research experience in petroleum engineering, geology or geophysics, chemical engineering
Preferred:
Bachelor's degree or combination of education and experience in a senior technical role
5+ years of experience in a senior field role petroleum engineering
Skills Required
WHIMS
Metallurgy and materials science
Mechanical testing and analysis
Corrosion and wear analysis
Failure analysis techniques
Non-destructive testing
Ability to set up and calibrate and operate metallurgical testing equipment
Experience with optical microscopy SEM, EDS and XRD
Report writing and documentation
Coating and surface engineering
Strong communication, both written and verbal
Excellent organizational and time management
Excellent time management and able to work in a high-pressure environment
High degree of organizational skills, and problem-solving ability, given the dynamic and often confidential nature of research projects
High degree of confidentiality and discretion
Willingness to embrace new ideas, methods, and work environments
Adjusting workflows and priorities as partner needs shift
Seeking opportunities for upskilling and acquiring new competencies
Working effectively with different teams during day-to-day tasks performance, including the implementation and sustain change
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Job classification: Technologist III
Salary range: $64,625.60 - $ 83,928.00
of positions: 1
Hours Per Week: 40
Posting closing date: Open until position is filled
About SAIT
SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.
Building on our 100+ year history, we’re looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.
Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is essential to achieving SAIT’s vision to be a global leader in applied education. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, people from gender and sexually diverse communities, and/or people with intersectional identities. Learn more about EDI at SAIT.
At SAIT, we understand that experience comes in many forms. We’re dedicated to adding diverse perspectives to SAIT - so if your experience is close to what we’re looking for, please consider applying.
SAIT is committed to supporting persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. We will work with applicants to provide accommodations upon request to the Talent Advisor.
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