What is the role of a chemical operator?
Chemical operators are instrumental in ensuring the efficient and safe production of petroleum products and chemicals used in various oil and gas processes. As experts in operating chemical processing equipment, their primary responsibility is to handle the manufacturing and treatment processes while adhering to strict safety and quality protocols.
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Shift Supervisor
Location: Mississauga
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 5 years
Carries overall supervisory responsibilities for the on-shift operators, including performance management and capability development, scheduling, and effective administration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement Promotes safe, respectful behaviours and attitudes and ensures safety and environmental performance standards are met. Maintains Emergency Response capabilities of the Area Team and acts as the On Scene Commander for Emergency Response Leads and/or participates in Incident Investigations Monitors and optimizes operations for production, quality targets, and efficiency. Responsible to meet the production plan Assesses and manages risks associated with people, processes and equipment. Escalate risks where appropriate. Responds to community concerns/complaints and informs the appropriate regulatory body as required Facilitates communication within the plant. Communicates with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders, seeking assistance from other resources as required Special assignments or tasks assigned to the employee by their supervisor, as determined from time to time in their sole and complete discretion
Automation Engineer
Location: Greater Toronto Area
Branche: Pharmaceuticals
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 2 years
Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair automated systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robotics, and other control systems. Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software-related issues to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency. Perform regular calibration of sensors, instruments, and automated equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Modify/optimize control programs to enhance process performance and production quality. Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, calibrations, and software changes. Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), FDA, and other regulatory requirements by adhering to established protocols and guidelines for pharmaceutical industry standards. Identify opportunities to improve automation processes, enhance system reliability, and reduce operational costs. Collaborate with engineering teams to implement upgrades and modifications to systems. Work closely with production, quality assurance, and engineering teams to support manufacturing objectives. Provide training and guidance to operators and junior technicians on the proper use of automated systems. Strong knowledge of PLC programming and industrial automation systems. Experience with control system architecture, including SCADA, HMI interfaces, and networks Proficient in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical, electrical, and software components Familiarity with sensors, actuators, motors, VFDs, and servo systems. Ability to interpret technical drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics. Strong analytical and diagnostic skills to identify and resolve system inefficiencies. Proactive mindset with the ability to prioritize and manage tasks in a high-pressure situations
Data Scientist
Location: Calgary
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: IT & Shared Services
Experience: 3 years
Introduction Brunel is currently seeking a Full Stack Data Scientist for a leading Chemical Manufacturing client in Calgary, Alberta. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking Digital Factory team that is driving digitalization efforts across key value streams, including Integrated Value Chain, Reliability, Maintenance & Turnaround, and Quality & Commercial Excellence. In this role, you will develop and deploy advanced analytics solutions that optimize decision-making and enhance operational performance. From predictive maintenance and rail optimization to digital manufacturing and GenAI-driven knowledge management, you will work on a variety of impactful initiatives that shape the future of the industry. If you thrive in an agile, fast-paced environment and have a strong foundation in Python, machine learning, and cloud-based analytics, this is your chance to contribute to a cutting-edge digital transformation. Responsibilities Solution Development Translate business requirements into technical hypotheses and execute proof-of-concept (PoC) initiatives Develop and refine advanced analytics models, including forecasting, optimization, and GenAI Deploy scalable, production-ready solutions on Databricks Apply software engineering best practices, including version control and robust documentation Monitor and maintain production data science solutions, ensuring performance and reliability Address issues such as model drift and data pipeline failures Act as the primary interface between IT and the digital factory team to address sustainment needs Collaborate with technical and product teams to define requirements and deploy solutions Present clear, actionable insights for technical and non-technical audiences Translate complex data science outputs into business recommendations Requirements Bachelor's, MSc, or PhD in engineering, computer science, or related fields (chemical or mechanical engineering preferred) Proficiency in Python and related data science libraries Strong foundation in data science, including machine learning, large language models, optimization, and statistics 2-6 years of practical experience in data science solution development Experience in the full data science lifecycle from PoC to deployment Familiarity with cloud platforms and tools for scalable deployments (Databricks, MLflow, Apache Spark) Expertise in monitoring and maintaining production systems, resolving model drift, and improving performance monitoring Proficiency in version control tools and best practices (Git, branching, merging) Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in tackling ambiguous challenges Effective communication skills to present findings to diverse stakeholders Experience working in agile environments and managing workloads within sprints
Project Manager
Location: Montréal
Branche: Food Production
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 3 years
Plan and execute the project according to Boccard Project Management System and internal best practices in place Accountable for delivering the project On Time, On Spec, and On Budget Track Project performance and meet budgetary objectives until project closure. Manage project budgets and report estimated versus actual costs, against physical progress. Analyze and explain technical and budgetary variances Carry out project closeout, prepare project postmortem and report final project KPIs Play an active role in maintaining the good relationship between the company and the client Liaison with all project stakeholders throughout project lifecycle and main point of contact for customer on project related communication Prepare quotations, draft proposals, and support technical alignments Execute and follow requests for modification to orders in compliance with contractual agreement and per internal rules Prepare and manage staffing plans - Identify the need for internal and external resources Manage the project team, organize and lead internal meetings. Organize and conduct project meetings (Kick Off Meeting, Weekly, Fortnightly, etc.) throughout lifecycle of project Apply standard Engineering practices to complete and/or review calculations, spreadsheets, drawings, piping layouts, and functional descriptions. Plan and coordinate with various departments the completion of tasks / milestones: to be delivered on time and on spec: design review, P&ID, 3D, highlighted P&IDs Manage and validate the technical calculations, specifications Work closely with the Supply Chain department: Plan the Supply Chain Kick Off meeting and comply with internal purchase order rules of engagements Write and validate reception protocols and approve installations Coordinate shop fabrication and onsite installation on assigned projects (may oversee equipment installation as necessary) Organize and facilitate acceptance tests (Simulations, FAT, SAT, Qualifications) Schedule and supervise the start-up Document project handover and execute Provisional and Final Acceptance certificates Prepare and provide project status reports to upper management / direct supervisor
Administrative Assistant
Location: Red Deer
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 3 years
Introduction Brunel is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive TSP Administrative Assistant to support technical and administrative functions for a chemical manufacturing client located in Joffre, AB. This role requires strong organizational skills, technical expertise, and the ability to work independently while managing multiple responsibilities. Responsibilities Perform data integrity checks by validating and searching for information across various sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. Maintain databases, address linking issues, and digitize hard copy files to improve accessibility. Monitor project progress, follow up on outstanding items, and ensure timely completion. Create maintenance notifications for planning and scheduling purposes. Lead initiatives to enhance document control processes and improve workflow efficiency. Provide support to engineers, designers, and stakeholders on workflows and document management best practices. Manage project documents from creation through storage, ensuring proper organization and retention. Act as a liaison for project closeout activities, ensuring compliance with established procedures. Assist during scheduled unit turnarounds, providing necessary administrative support. Requirements High school diploma required, post-secondary education in Office Administration or related field preferred. Minimum of 3 years of experience in an office environment, preferably in engineering or manufacturing. Proficiency in systems such as SAP, SharePoint, and SPF. Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and within a team.
What do chemical operators do?
Chemical operators are responsible for various tasks related to chemical processing and production. They carefully monitor and control chemical reactions, maintaining precise temperature, pressure, and other parameters to achieve desired outcomes and meet quality specifications. Safety is of utmost importance for chemical operators.
Before commencing their tasks, they conduct thorough inspections of the equipment to ensure proper functioning and promptly report any abnormalities or issues to the maintenance team. During chemical processing operations, they strictly adhere to safety protocols and guidelines, ensuring the safe handling of potentially hazardous materials and maintaining a secure worksite environment.
Chemical operators also collaborate closely with other team members, such as engineers and technicians, to achieve production targets and address any process-related challenges effectively. Effective communication is essential as they exchange information with colleagues regarding process adjustments, quality control, and maintenance requirements.
Beyond their core responsibilities in chemical processing, operators are also involved in basic equipment maintenance tasks. They regularly clean and lubricate the machinery to ensure optimal performance and extend its longevity.
Where do chemical operators work?
Chemical operators have diverse employment opportunities since they play a crucial role in the production and treatment of petroleum products and chemicals used in various oil and gas processes.
Common workplaces for chemical operators in the oil and gas industry include oil refineries, petrochemical plants, natural gas processing plants, offshore platforms, chemical injection facilities, pipelines and terminals, research and development laboratories, other specialized service providers. They may also work for government agencies involved in regulating the industry's safety and environmental standards.
Common chemical operator responsibilities:
Operate specialized chemical processing equipment skillfully to facilitate the production and treatment of petroleum products and chemicals;
Conduct thorough pre-operation inspections to ensure the equipment's proper functioning and promptly report any issues or abnormalities;
Adhere strictly to safety protocols and guidelines during equipment operation and chemical processes to mitigate potential hazards and maintain a safe work environment;
Collaborate effectively with team members, including engineers and technicians, to ensure smooth workflow and achieve production targets;
Perform basic maintenance tasks on the equipment, including regular cleaning, troubleshooting, and minor repairs;
Demonstrate precision and efficiency while handling chemical processes to optimize productivity and maintain product quality standards;
Monitor chemical reactions and processes, making real-time adjustments to maintain optimal operating conditions and meet quality specifications;
Record and document data related to production processes, ensuring accurate and comprehensive records are maintained for regulatory and quality control purposes;
Participate in the implementation of new chemical processes or improvements to existing processes, working closely with the technical team;
Comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and industry-specific regulations to ensure a safe and compliant work environment.
Qualifications for chemical operators:
To become a chemical operator in the oil and gas industry, candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent. An advanced degree, such as an Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree, offers more job opportunities.
Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience in chemical manufacturing or operating chemical processes.
However, some companies offer on-the-job training for candidates with a strong technical aptitude and a keen interest in the oil and gas industry.
Other essential qualifications include:
- Basic understanding of chemical processes and equipment specific to the oil and gas sector;
- Strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines, with a focus on handling potentially hazardous materials;
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to monitor and troubleshoot chemical processes effectively;
- Effective communication skills to collaborate with team members, engineers, and technicians;
- Physical fitness and stamina to meet the demands of the job, including the ability to work in challenging environments and weather conditions;
- Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining quality and precision throughout the production and treatment processes.
