Description
Faculty Services within the Schulich School of Engineering is currently seeking a Full-time Limited Term Technical Specialist for approximately 10 months.
This role reports to the Technical Services Manager and the primary purpose of this position is to ensure the safe, reliable, and effective operation of undergraduate Chemical and Petroleum Engineering teaching laboratories and associated experimental learning environments. This includes responsibility for the setup, maintenance, repair, calibration, and commissioning of analytical laboratory equipment and experimental systems.
The incumbent provides technical instruction, training, and mentorship to students, teaching assistants, staff, and faculty in the safe and effective use of chemical laboratory equipment and instrumentation. The position also serves as a technical resource regarding analytical methodologies, instrumentation, laboratory procedures, and the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.
A key aspect of the role is contributing to the continuous improvement of laboratory learning experiences through the development of new experiments, refinement of laboratory procedures, implementation of equipment upgrades, and integration of modern analytical and engineering practices. When assigned, the incumbent supports Maker Space operations through equipment maintenance, inventory management, user support, workshop delivery, and participation in outreach activities, demonstrations, and tours.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
Laboratory Operations & Technical Support
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Operate, maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair Chemical and Petroleum Engineering teaching laboratory equipment and experimental systems.
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Prepare laboratory equipment, chemicals, instrumentation, and process systems to ensure laboratories are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with course requirements.
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Monitor and maintain the performance of pumps, valves, reactors, flow systems, analytical instrumentation, and associated infrastructure to ensure reliable operation.
Laboratory Support & Student Support
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Provide technical expertise and practical instruction to students and teaching assistants regarding laboratory procedures, analytical methodologies, instrumentation, and safe operating practices.
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Provide technical consultation and troubleshooting support during laboratory activities and student projects.
Laboratory Development & Continuous Improvement
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Contribute to the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of undergraduate laboratory experiments and instructional activities.
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Identify opportunities for laboratory modernization and implement improvements to equipment, procedures, safety systems, and instructional effectiveness.
Inventory, Procurement, Safety & Compliance
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Manage chemical inventory, laboratory materials, and consumables by monitoring stock levels, coordinating procurement activities, and maintaining inventory records to support uninterrupted laboratory operations.
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Coordinate procurement of laboratory equipment, chemicals, consumables, and replacement components through consultation with vendors and adherence to university purchasing procedures.
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Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and waste materials in accordance with regulatory and university requirements.
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Maintain and update standard operating procedures, hazard assessments, laboratory records, and safety documentation.
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Conduct laboratory inspections and safety audits and identify corrective actions required to maintain compliance with university policies and Alberta Occupational Health and Safety legislation.
Coordination & Team Support
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Coordinate laboratory preparation, equipment scheduling, and technical resources to ensure teaching activities proceed safely, efficiently, and without disruption.
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Support cross-training, knowledge sharing, and collaboration within the Technical Services team.
Qualifications / Requirements:
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Chemical Engineering Technology diploma
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Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or related discipline considered a strong asset
- Several years of experience in chemical laboratory, analytical instrumentation, or applied engineering environments
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Strong understanding of chemical engineering fundamentals, lab operations, and experimental processes
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Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation (e.g., gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, UV-VIS spectroscopy, refractometry, microscopy)
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Experience with laboratory chemical handling, storage, and hazardous waste disposal practices Familiarity with process systems, pumps, valves, fluid systems, and unit operation sequipment
- Exposure to mechanical fabrication tools and prototyping considered an asset (for support of lab development and student projects)
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Experience with digital instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and laboratory computing tools
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Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with ability to manage multiple priorities
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Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and ability to work effectively with diverse groups
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Experience developing or maintaining SOPs and laboratory safety documentation Proficiency with computers, technical documentation, and inventory/procurement systems
- A valid Class 5 driver¿s license (cannot be a graduated license) with proven good driving record (abstract required).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a technical team environment
Application Deadline: July 21, 2026
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 2.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.
About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.
The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy ii' taa'poh'to'p committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.
The university's commitment to the Indigenous Strategy is evident through the oversight of 18 Elders serving on the Circle of Advisors and the many unit-based circles working towards implementation of the strategy including the Faculty Advisory Circle and teams such as the Office of Indigenous Engagement, the Writing Symbols Lodge, and the Indigenous Research Support Team. Many Indigenous-based events and processes are impacting curriculum, programming and polices at the University of Calgary.
As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Institutional Commitments ([email protected]) and requests for accommodations can be sent to People & Culture ([email protected]).
Do you have most but not all the qualifications? Research show that women, racialized and visible minorities, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At UCalgary we are committed to achieving equitable, diverse, inclusive and accessible employment practices and workplaces and encourage you to apply if you believe you are right for this role.
We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, however preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.
