Geology Student - Exploration & Mining

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Canadian Natural Resources is seeking Geology Students for a full-time onsite term in Calgary or Fort McMurray, 4 or 8 months, starting January, May, or September 2027. You will work with experienced geologists on exploration and mining projects, performing mapping, cross-sections, core descriptions, data interpretation, and 3D modeling. Mining assignments include supporting active operations, core drilling and deposit characterization. To stand out, highlight geology coursework, field and lab experience, and the ability to work independently and in teams; for mining, a valid Alberta Class 5 license and clean driving record. Prepare resume, cover letter, unofficial transcripts, and apply early; this safety sensitive role requires legal authorization to work in Canada.

The Opportunity:

Dive into the fascinating world of petroleum geology with this opportunity! Embark on a journey of discovery as you analyze geological data, interpret subsurface formations, and contribute to challenging exploration or mining projects. If you have a passion for earth sciences, a keen eye for detail, and a desire for knowledge, this opportunity is your gateway to experience in the geology field. Take the first step towards a rewarding career in geology and apply now to be part of our dynamic team!

This opportunity provides a unique chance to gain hands-on experience across exploration or mining geology. Depending on the assignment, you may spend time or working with experienced geologists on exploration and development projects, in the core lab, or at an active mine site. You will analyze formations, interpret geological data, review core and subsurface information, and apply your knowledge to practical geology workflows.

You will work alongside experienced geologists who can mentor you while you gain valuable on-the-job training, including 3D modeling and geological software, mapping, cross-sections, petrophysical log interpretation, facies analysis, field tours, core description, and communicating geological concepts and findings to diverse audiences.

• Job location: Calgary, AB (Head Office) or Fort McMurray, AB (Horizon or Albian Sands)
• Shift schedules:
  • Calgary: 5 days on, 2 days off, 8 hours/day (Monday – Friday)
  • Oilsands: 4 days on, 3 days off, 10 hours/day (Monday – Thursday)
• Term lengths: 4 or 8 months
• Term starts: January, May, or September 2027
• Safety sensitive position: Yes
• Application deadline: This posting will close once the successful candidate(s) have been selected. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Key Accountabilities:

You will work closely with experienced geologists to gain valuable experience and skills in geology.

• Work as an integral member of the asset team by preparing key mapping, cross-sections, and interpretations related to current and future development programs
• Prepare regional interpretations and mapping for prospective geologic formations, high-grade areas with potential for development/optimization
• Review and describe core from formations of interest to aid in understanding depositional environments and details of individual rock units
• Contribute to day-to-day area activity by working with the teams in preparing government applications, planning of drilling programs, and evaluation of bypassed pay
• Develop and strengthen skills in petrophysical log interpretation, facies analysis, geological data acquisition and analysis, mapping, geological software
• Communicate your findings to the asset team and management in mid-term and final project presentations

Specifically for Mining Assignments

• Work with the production geology and hydrogeology team to support active mining operations
• Gain field experience validating geological models and reviewing mine development
• Participate in core drilling, core description, and deposit characterization activities
• Develop skills in McMurray stratigraphy, geophysical log interpretation, depositional environments, and sampling techniques
• Build technical expertise in mine planning, reserves reconciliation, mining operations, geotechnical, and hydrogeological studies

What You Bring to The Role:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's or master's degree program in Geology; recent new graduates of an accredited institution may also be considered
• Required to be physically and mentally fit for work
• Motivated self-starter who can thrive as an independent worker and in team settings
• A sense of ownership and responsibility for project outcomes, and the ability to work effectively in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams

Specifically for Mining Assignments

• Possess a valid Class 5 Alberta driver’s license or equivalent out-of-province license with a reasonably clean driver abstract, where required by the assignment
• A pre-employment drug screening test must be successfully completed, where required by the assignment

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary
• Paid time off during Christmas week and summer Fridays in July and August, where applicable
• Quality camp facilities with multiple amenities available, where applicable 
• Company Sponsored Fly-In/Fly-Out from Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta, where applicable
• 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
• Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community
• 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 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. 

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!