Lab Technician

At NOVA Chemicals we are reshaping plastics for a better, more sustainable world. Our dedicated team of talented individuals works collaboratively to create circular plastic solutions that make everyday life safer, healthier and better. With a focus on safety, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, we strive to constantly improve and shape the future of our industry. Join our team of talented professionals who are passionate about making a difference and be a part of our journey towards sustainability leadership. Together we can create a better, more circular tomorrow.


NOVA Chemicals, headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is wholly-owned by Mubadala Investment Company of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.


We are seeking a Lab Technician to join the Manufacturing West (MW) Polyethylene Quality Services Team at our Joffre Site in Central Alberta, near Red Deer. This position will report to the Polyethylene (PE) Quality Services Supervisor and will provide Quality Control and Quality Assurance support to the PE1 and AST1 Manufacturing Units.


You Will Use Your Expertise To:

Adhere to Nova Chemicals Responsible Care® standards, procedures and programs
Prepare and test PE resin and pellet samples following established Laboratory Test Procedures (LTPs) and testing schedules
Perform routine and non-routine tests and analyses using the appropriate lab, technical equipment and instrumentation, with quality controls in place
Review and enter test results and request process changes based on data interpretation
Make real time decisions regarding product disposition (e.g. product grading, blending consultations)
Produce certified test results for product shipment release
Operate on-shift of OCS At-Line systems, including operation of the equipment and interpretation of data including any required interventions
Become competent at lab equipment use and troubleshooting, and perform calibrations and maintenance if required
Update LTPs, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and other documentation as required to support the PE Quality Services team
Interface regularly with Operations and Engineering
Maintain and adhere to Responsible Care® laboratory practices: facility change management, chemical handling, waste disposal, fume hood checks, chemical inventory, cylinder handling, cryogenic liquid handling
Participate in the sample retains management process
Maintain a clean work area and practice safe work habits, including complying with all safety, health and environmental protocols
Maintain conformance to ISO+001:2015 standards as required for all work activities
Be responsible for becoming proficient and knowledgeable on a wide range of polyethylene product grades and finished recipes

What We Are Looking For:

2-year technical school diploma with 8+ years of industrial lab and/or operations related experience, OR, 10+ years combination of post-secondary technical education and related experience, OR, 12+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing discipline or equivalent technology environment
Strong analytical and numerical skills as well as advanced skills with Microsoft Excel for data collection and processing
Proficiency in utilizing SAP
Experience working with potentially hazardous materials
Hands-on experience as a Lab Technician in an industrial or service laboratory setting would be considered an asset
Polyethylene manufacturing experience would be considered an asset
Ability to bend, push, pull and reach (including overhead) in accordance with safe ergonomic practices
Excellent problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail
A self-starter and rapid learner who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment
An enthusiastic, personable, and professional team member with strong organizational skills, flexibility and the ability to work under pressure with multiple deadlines

You Can Stand Out If:

You are passionate about your work and put care and thought into all that you do.
You are responsible and follow through with your commitments to others and to safety.
You are innovative and are willing to challenge your biases when problem solving.
You are collaborative, inclusive, and work well with others towards team goals.

Additional Information:

Relocation will be considered for this position
Compensation will be commensurate with education and experience
This role may require ad hoc travel as needed
This is a 12-hour rotating shift position
Work will be conducted both indoors and outdoors in all seasons
Positions will include some lifting and climbing of ladders within various levels of the units
Overtime and callouts are a requirement of the role due to the 24 hour per day plant operation
The successful candidate is required to provide proof of a valid driver’s license

Why NOVA Chemicals?

NOVA Chemicals’ flexible benefit programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees, because when it comes to benefits, everyone has different priorities. Our benefits offerings will vary based on your work location and are an element of the “Total Rewards” package used to reward employees.


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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age race, color, religion, sex, ****** orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.