Student Research Assistant, Environmental Monitoring (Casual)

The Clean Technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) supports regional industries through applied research activities aiming to accelerate the development of technologies rooted in circular economy principles. The position is focused on supporting the area of circularity within industrial sectors of Alberta. The position will support basic laboratory activities related to projects focused on characterizing industrial waste materials and environmental samples for use in forestry reclamation applications. This is a high-profile multi-disciplinary project in close collaboration with both industry and academic partners. This position is covered by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) Collective Agreement.

Responsibilities

Conduct a variety of laboratory-based techniques such as measuring pH, ions, EC etc.; Gas chromatography and ion chromatography; Elemental analysis; FTIR; Carry out general tasks and laboratory protocols including general housekeeping, experimental set up and take down, solution preparation, and basic analytical equipment maintenance; Perform basic soil analyses, including sample preparation and analysis; Use analytical instrumentation to acquire data and compile data within Excel for presentation to team members and industry partners; Participate in maintaining a safe laboratory environment by following standard operating procedures, proper chemical handling, and helping to update safety protocols; Communicate results and observations effectively between project teams and industry partners as needed; Write reports/presentations summarizing the data obtained using Word and Power Point

Requirements

Enrolled at NAIT or other community college/polytechnic in Chemical Technology, Biological, Environmental Technology, Nanotechnology, Chemical Engineering Technology, or equivalent programs; Must be able to work full-time from January 1 to December 1, 2027; Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and MS Teams; Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Effective verbal and written communication skills; Excellent interpersonal skills; Applicants with education credentials earned outside of Canada should have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services (WES), International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) or the Comparative Education Services (CES)

Nice to have

A minimum of one year of demonstrated hands-on training or experience in a chemistry laboratory; Understanding of lab safety guidelines and best practices including WHIMS and Occupational Health & Safety guidelines; Prior analytical laboratory experience; Class 5 driver's license and willingness to travel

Benefits

12% in lieu of statutory holidays and vacation pay; Excellent vacation time; Paid time off between Christmas and New Year's; Health and wellness, work-life balance, recognition, and professional and personal growth benefits for eligible positions; Flexible work environment for eligible roles