Operations Chemist

SECURE is a leading Waste Management and Energy Infrastructure business headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. Our extensive infrastructure network located throughout western Canada and North Dakota includes Waste Management Facilities, Industrial Landfills, Pipeline Operations, Metals & Mining, and Specialty Chemicals, Energy Infrastructure include Blending & Facility Supply and Trading & Storage.

Our number one goal every day is to go home safe. Like our values state, working the SECURE way starts with working safely. Safety is the cornerstone of our culture, because if we are not safe, nothing else matters.

The Operations Chemist is responsible for conducting both operational laboratory testing and research and development activities to support the Specialty Chemicals business unit. This role involves receiving, preparing, and analyzing client samples—including oil, water, reservoir core, cuttings, and produced fluids—to evaluate treatment requirements and determine optimal chemical solutions. The Operations Chemist performs routine and advanced analytical testing, prepares reagents and test solutions, and ensures the accuracy and consistency of laboratory procedures through strict QA/QC practices.

On the research and development side, the Operations Chemist contributes to the formulation, testing, and optimization of new chemical products, as well as the improvement of analytical methods and laboratory processes. A high level of technical writing proficiency is required to document experimental work, prepare detailed laboratory reports, develop technical standards, and support the generation of product specifications and technical bulletins.

The Operations Chemist is also responsible for maintaining laboratory instrumentation, ensuring adherence to safety and regulatory requirements, and managing sample handling, documentation, and disposal. This position plays a key role in supporting both day-to-day operational needs and long-term product development initiatives within the organization.

The work environment is a laboratory setting that prioritizes safety, accuracy, and strong QA/QC practices. It is highly technical, supported by specialized instrumentation and clear procedural expectations. The atmosphere is detail-oriented and quality-driven, fostering precision, consistency, and strong scientific discipline.

The team consists of experienced chemists and technical specialists who each manage their own responsibilities with a high level of independence. The Specialty Chemicals and Lab team at SECURE values technical excellence, reliability, and practical problem-solving.

The responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to:

Laboratory Operations & Sample Analysis

• Receive, log, prepare, and analyze client samples such as oil, water, produced fluids, core, and cuttings.
• Perform analytical testing, including emulsion stability, water quality and compatibility assessments, scale and corrosion tendency evaluations, separation/demulsifier screening, and proppant pack compatibility testing.
• Interpret data, evaluate treatment performance, and prepare clear, technically rigorous laboratory reports.
• Provide recommendations to field operations based on laboratory findings and chemical performance assessments.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and ensure operational readiness of all equipment.
• Execute proper sample preparation, storage, labeling, documentation, and disposal in compliance with internal procedures.
• Ensure full adherence to laboratory safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and quality standards.

Research & Development

• Assist in the formulation, testing, and optimization of new chemical products for production, completions, and water treatment applications.
• Develop and refine analytical methodologies, laboratory procedures, and testing workflows to improve accuracy and reproducibility.
• Document all experimental procedures, observations, and results in accordance with R&D documentation standards.
• Perform data analysis and prepare technical reports, product specifications, and supporting documents for internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor industry developments, emerging technologies, and competitive products to inform innovation initiatives.
• Collaborate with senior technical personnel to transition successful formulations from laboratory development to commercial deployment.

Technical Writing & Communication

• Prepare comprehensive laboratory reports, technical summaries, and data packages outlining methods, results, and recommendations.
• Communicate analytical and experimental findings to internal teams, field personnel, and clients in a clear and scientifically rigorous manner.
• Contribute to the development of SOPs, technical standards, and product documentation.
• Maintain organized, traceable laboratory records and files in accordance with company documentation requirements.

The individual in this role will have:

• MSc in Chemistry or related discipline with ≥2 years of relevant laboratory experience; or BSc/diploma in Chemistry or related field with ≥5 years experience; or ≥10 years directly related industry experience.
• Strong technical writing skills with demonstrated ability to prepare clear, accurate scientific reports, SOPs, and specifications.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and laboratory documentation systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Residence in Calgary, AB or surrounding region.

The following are considered assets in this role:

• Knowledge of production chemistry, completions chemistry, or petroleum laboratory testing.
• Experience with crude oil and produced water analysis.
• Familiarity with analytical instruments such as FTIR, rheometers, drop shape analyzers, etc.
• Strong data interpretation skills and understanding of QA/QC principles.
• Experience in R&D, formulation development, or product validation.

At SECURE, we focus on opportunities for growth and improvement; for our employees, our customers, our partners, and the communities we operate in. We are an energetic team, driven by the needs of our customers, and we care about making a meaningful contribution. We strive to attract, retain, and motivate employees by offering a competitive compensation package that recognizes employee contributions and performance.

In addition to rewarding job opportunities, we offer:

• Competitive industry wages, and compensation programs which includes:
• Employer paid benefits: health, dental & more
• Health care spending account
• Employee wellness program
• Employee savings plans
• Career progression
• A competitive employee referral program
• Industry leading safety standards
• Community investment initiatives https://www.secure.ca/community-investment

We believe our team’s strength comes from our diversity.

Every SECURE employee has a right to feel safe and welcome. We pride ourselves on being respectful workplace where all employees have equal access to opportunity and support. 

We are a trusted partner. We extend those same efforts outside of the organization through our respectful engagement with our diverse base of stakeholders in the communities in which we operate.

Applicants are not assessed on the grounds of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, or physical handicap. Our operations span across Canada and the United States and we actively seek out a wide range of applicants for both field operations and office roles.