Industrial Automation Engineering Student

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Canadian Natural Resources is offering a 12 month Industrial Automation Engineering Student term based in Lac La Biche (Kirby North and South Operations), starting May 2027, onsite with an 8 days on 6 days off schedule. You will support Emerson DeltaV DCS, PLC, HMI and SCADA systems, develop operator interfaces, analyze data, and drive projects that enhance safety, reliability and efficiency. Strong candidates are enrolled in Electrical, Computer, Software, Digital Systems or Mechatronics with coursework or experience in automation, controls or data analytics; familiarity with C#, Python, SQL or PowerShell is a plus, and exposure to industrial networks or cybersecurity helps. Requirements include a valid Alberta Class 5 license, pre-employment drug screen. To apply, submit resume, cover letter and unofficial transcripts, and tailor your materials to highlight hands-on control-system work, teamwork with operations and maintenance, and a clear fit to Canadian Natural's student program. Fly-In/Fly-Out and relocation options exist.

The Opportunity:

Are you an engineering student who enjoys solving problems, working with technology, and seeing the real-world impact of your work? Our Industrial Automation Engineering Student role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting the systems that monitor and control large-scale thermal operations.

Working alongside experienced automation professionals, you will contribute to process control improvements, operator interface development, data analysis, and automation projects that help improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our facilities. You will gain exposure to Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PLCs, Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI), industrial networking, and modern digital tools while developing a strong understanding of how industrial processes operate.

Whether you are interested in automation, controls, software, data analytics, or process optimization, this role provides an opportunity to apply your technical skills in a dynamic operating environment and gain practical experience with systems that drive real-world production.

• Job location:  Lac La Biche, Alberta – Kirby North and South Operations, AB
• Shift schedule: 8 days on, 6 days off
• Term length: 12 months
• Term start: May 2027
• Safety sensitive position: Yes

Key Accountabilities:

• Support the development, testing, and maintenance of Emerson DeltaV HMI graphics and operator interfaces to 
• Work directly with Emerson DeltaV DCS, PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems to understand how industrial processes are monitored and controlled
• Support the development, enhancement, testing, and maintenance of operator interfaces and HMI graphics to improve usability and operational effectiveness
• Participate in automation projects that improve process reliability, efficiency, and operational performance
• Analyze process and equipment data to identify trends, support troubleshooting efforts, and assist with continuous improvement initiatives
• Assist with control system configuration, testing, and implementation activities under the guidance of experienced automation engineers and technologists
• Support ongoing DCS and HMI modernization initiatives, including graphics migration and system enhancements
• Develop reports, tools, scripts, or dashboards that improve engineering workflows and support operational decision-making
• Gain exposure to industrial networking concepts, cybersecurity principles, and automation system architecture
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, process engineering, and automation teams to deliver effective solutions
• Maintain automation, cybersecurity, and engineering documentation in accordance with corporate standards and industry best practices

What You Bring to The Role:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's degree program in Electrical, Computer, Software, Digital Systems, Mechatronics preferred, all other engineering disciplines will be considered
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for learning how software, hardware, and industrial processes work together in a complex operating environment
• Coursework or experience related to automation, controls, programming, data analytics, process systems, or engineering design
• Familiarity with programming or scripting languages such as C#, Python, SQL, or PowerShell is considered an asset
• Interest in data analysis, visualization, and using technology to improve processes and workflows
• Exposure to industrial networking concepts, operating systems, or cybersecurity principles is considered an asset
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Mechanical and/or electrical aptitude with a desire to learn how automation systems support industrial operations
• Valid Class 5 Alberta driver's license or equivalent provincial license
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary
• Quality camp facilities with multiple amenities available
• Safety boot allowance
• Safety training certifications and PPE covered
• 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.
• Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community

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. 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!