Lab Technician Student – Geotechnical

The Opportunity: 

Calling all soil enthusiasts and rock aficionados! Are you ready to dive into the world of materials testing and ensure our lab operates at its best.

Join us in the Geotechnical Operations Support (GOS) onsite lab, where you'll conduct various physical soil tests including Proctor, sieve analysis, and moisture content to support construction quality control of mine earth structures. Learn how soils are used at Albian and how their physical properties of the soils affect our operations and our various stakeholders, including Mine Operations, Tailings Operations, Tailings Planning, and Geotechnical Engineering. Materials testing is a crucial function which makes a real impact on our operations.

The position is based indoors within our lab at our Albian operations. If you're detail-oriented and enjoy working as a high-functioning member of a team, this opportunity is perfect for you! 

• Job location: Fort McMurray, AB - Albian Sands
• Shift schedule: TBD - based on business needs
• Term length: 4, 8, or 12 months
• Term start: May 2027
• Safety sensitive position: Yes

Key Accountabilities:

• Manage samples and perform lab testing to support construction quality control of mine earth structures
• Onsite lab tests include standard Proctor, sieve analysis, and moisture content
• Follow Lab Control Manual, Quality Management System, Procedures, and be aware of American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards for relevant lab tests

What You Bring to The Role:

• Currently enrolled or recently graduated in an Engineering Technologist program, Engineering or Geology program in a field related to Mining (Civil, Geological, Geology) from a recognized school
• Must be able to carry 20 kg for 100m over rough terrain continuously
• Highly motivated individual with good leadership and communication/networking skills

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary
• Quality camp facilities with multiple amenities available
• Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community
• Company Sponsored Fly-In/Fly-Out from Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta
• Students may be eligible for relocation assistance pursuant to Canadian Natural’s Student Relocation Policy (Students will be responsible for finding their own accommodations during the work term)
• Opportunities to partake in initiatives such as the Intern Social Committee

Check out our COMPENSATION & BENEFITS overview to see what we have to offer!

If you are interested in this exciting student work term opportunity, please include your resume, cover letter (optional) and unofficial transcripts as part of your online application.

All candidates applying to Canadian Natural must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for the position; however, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. This posting will close once a successful candidate has been selected.

Canadian Natural operates one of the largest Campus Recruitment programs in the country, hiring over 400 students every year. Students hired on with us are made to feel a part of the team, gaining high level experience, knowledge, and training that introduces and prepares them for full-time employment. 

We are proud to share that Canadian Natural has been ranked as a Top Employer for 2023, 2024 and 2025 by Canada's Future Workforce and also one of Forbes' Canada's Best Employers in 2025 and 2026.

Industry Leader: We commenced business in 1989 with a handful of employees and modest production, but today we employ more than 10,000 people and produce over 1 million BOE/d. 

Community Investment: Social responsibility is a critical element of our commitment to responsible operations and part of our success and pride as a Company. We are committed to investing in the communities where we live and work, creating shared value along the way.

Compensation and Benefits: We strive to share Company success with all employees through a comprehensive total compensation package.

Our People, Our Stories: Our stories demonstrate the strong culture that exists at Canadian Natural - one that focuses on developing people, working together and doing it right, with fun and integrity.

Check out some of our Student Testimonials!