Chemical and Process Technologists and Technicians focus on
industrial processes that convert raw materials into petroleum
products. They run production units, help design operations,
implement process controls and address corrosion concerns. They
also research new products and technologiesas well as environmental
and reclamation techniques that keep the industry on the leading
edge.
Imagine working with a Chemical Engineer to design a
distillation, separation or mixing process and then putting it to
use. Perhaps you would be interested in working at an upgrader that
converts bitumen into synthetic crude. Maybe you would operate
equipment at a gasplant that extracts moisture, contaminants,
hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from natural gas.
Alternatively, you could work behind the scenes in a lab
researching the latest techniques or doing quality control tests on
samples.
Do you like the investigative nature of lab work? Could you see
yourself operating equipment in a high-tech petroleum plant? Does
Chemistry intrigue you? If so, working as a Chemical and Process
Technologist or Technician could be the perfect career for you!
What do Chemical and Process Technologistsand Technicians
do?
Chemical and Process Technologists and Technicians work in
production, engineering design, corrosion control, laboratory
analyses and research. Examples of key jobs in this occupation
include:
- Process Technicians:
Operate, monitor, adjust, maintain and troubleshoot processing
units. They participate in process start-ups and shut-downs. They
also sample products, perform tests, record data and maintain logs
of operating conditions.
- Corrosion
Specialists: Contribute to the design, implementation and
improvement of cathodic protection programs. They investigate
corrosion failures and recommend improvements.
- Laboratory Technicians or
Quality Control Technologists: Conduct chemical analyses
on air, water, soil and oil. They ensure quality control on
chemical products used by the industry.
- Chemical
Specialists: Research new or improved products and
technologies for oil and gas recovery, surface separation and
production or environmental management.
How do I become a Chemical and ProcessTechnologist or
Technician?
At minimum, you will need a two or three year diploma from a
recognized technical institute.
Chemical Engineering and Industrial Chemistry
Technology programs will prepare youto work alongside
engineers in production facilities. Areas of study include
chemicalengineering fundamentals, design calculations, unit
operations, process simulation,analytical techniques, statistics
and computer applications.
Chemical Technology programs will prepare you to work
alongside professional chemists and researchers. You will learn
about laboratory techniques, chemical instrumentation, fundamental
chemical principles, research, and quantitative analysis.
Graduates may be granted certification by provincial
associations of the Canadian Council of Technicians and
Technologists (CCTT). Certification usually requires a minimum two
years of experience after graduation. To check out the
associations, visit the CCTT websiteat: www.cctt.ca.
What are the working conditions like?
Jobs in production operations are based at plant and field
locations. Shift work, overtime and on-call rotations may be
required. Training in hydrogen sulphide safety and first aid
certification may be required. Some roles are considered 'safety
sensitive' and require rigorous pre-employment medical and
drug/alcohol assessments. Alternatively, work may be performed in a
main lab or in a large field laboratory in a production facility,
at a supplier facility or in an environmental laboratory. Safety
protocols are strictly adhered to.
Do I fit the bill?
Do you think you have what it takes to become a Chemical
Process Technologist or Technician?
- I am interested in chemistry,
mathematics, physics and science.
- I like to do experiments and lab
work.
- I am interested in understanding and
presenting scientific data.
- I am interested in engineering
principles.
- I enjoy figuring out calculations and
diagrams.
- I pay special attention to detail and
accuracy and am not easily distracted.
- I enjoy problem solving and finding
solutions.
- I am a great
multi-tasker.
- I believe that applying proper
procedures, standards, codes and policies is very
important.
- I am quite versatile and can work on
my own or with a team.
- I have well developed communication
and computer literacy skills.
- I am capable of working with
potentially hazardous materials and equipment with the right
training.
- I can work rotational shifts and long
hours.
- I believe that I have what it takes
to be an excellent Chemical and Process Technologist or
Technician!
Quick tips and next steps!
- Visit career fairs and talk to
employers who offer jobs and careers in this occupation. Check with
employment centres, educational institutions, newspapers,
petroleum-related magazines and the internet for information on
career fairs.
- While in high school, sharpen your
skills and knowledge in areas such as mathematics, chemistry,
physics and computer science.
- Participate in National
Technology Week which is held annually during November and
offers a host of activities along with interactive and fun
resources to help students, teachers and parents explore technical
careers. See details at: www.cctt.ca.
- Check out websites of industry and
professional associations such as the Canadian Council
ofTechnicians and Technologists at www.cctt.ca.
Want more info?
For information on other industry occupations check out
www.careersinoilandgas.com.