Process Engineering Student – Bitumen Production – Upgrading & Utilities

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Canadian Natural Resources is offering a Process Engineering Student opportunity in Fort McMurray, joining Bitumen Production or U2 with a 4 on 3 off schedule and 8 or 12 month terms. This onsite safety sensitive role lets you learn operations, maintenance and engineering design, gather field data, and collaborate with Project and Operations teams to drive improvements. To apply, tailor your resume to chemical engineering, emphasize coursework and projects in process optimization and data analysis, and show proficiency in Excel and Office; ensure you have a valid license, pass the drug screen, and include your resume and transcripts. Confirm eligibility to work in Canada and apply early, as postings close after a candidate is selected.

The Opportunity:

Are you a student looking for an exciting opportunity that is full of meaningful, diverse, and ambitious assignments working in a fast paced, dynamic team alongside industry leading professionals? Join a company culture that fosters a fun working environment, developing meaningful relationships, and continuous learning! 

Join our dynamic Bitumen Production or Utilities & Upgrading (U2) Process Engineering teams and immerse yourself in the world of chemical engineering! This is a unique opportunity for a passionate chemical engineering student to gain hands-on experience in optimizing production processes, enhancing efficiency, and contributing to sustainable practices. In this role, you'll engage in short-range planning initiatives focused on immediate operational improvements, while also contributing to our mid to long-range strategic projects aimed at innovation and growth. You'll work alongside seasoned professionals, tackling real-world challenges and developing solutions that drive our operations forward. If you’re eager to learn, collaborate, and make an impact, we want to hear from you! 

• Job location: Fort McMurray, AB – Horizon Mine Operations
• Shift schedule: 4 days on, 3 days off, working 10 hours per shift
• Term lengths: 8 or 12 months
• Term starts: January, May or September 2027
• Safety sensitive position: Yes

Key Accountabilities:

• Assist the Bitumen Production or U2 Process Engineering teams in activities relating to operations, maintenance, and engineering design
• Learn and understand the process, plant operations, and equipment
• Gather field measurements & data to assist engineers
• Review assets and data to see where we can improve and optimize the process 
• Participate in developing and executing improvements in the field and lab (may include pilot development and execution)
• Collaborate with Project and Operations teams to resolve engineering issues and ensure alignment with operational requirements

What You Bring to The Role:

• Currently enrolled in bachelor’s degree program in Chemical engineering (preferred) or Mechanical (acceptable)
• Motivated and positive attitude
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint)
• Possess a valid Class 5 Alberta driver’s license or equivalent out of province license with a reasonably clean driver abstract
• A pre-employment drug screening test must be successfully completed

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!