Operations Chemist

About Us

SECURE is a leading Waste Management and Energy Infrastructure business headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. Our extensive infrastructure network located throughout western Canada and North Dakota includes Waste Management Facilities, Industrial Landfills, Pipeline Operations, Metals & Mining, and Specialty Chemicals, Energy Infrastructure include Blending & Facility Supply and Trading & Storage.

Our number one goal every day is to go home safe. Like our values state, working the SECURE way starts with working safely. Safety is the cornerstone of our culture, because if we are not safe, nothing else matters.

The Operations Chemist is responsible for conducting both operational laboratory testing and research and development activities to support the Specialty Chemicals business unit. This role involves receiving, preparing, and analyzing client samples—including oil, water, reservoir core, cuttings, and produced fluids—to evaluate treatment requirements and determine optimal chemical solutions. The Operations Chemist performs routine and advanced analytical testing, prepares reagents and test solutions, and ensures the accuracy and consistency of laboratory procedures through strict QA/QC practices.

On the research and development side, the Operations Chemist contributes to the formulation, testing, and optimization of new chemical products, as well as the improvement of analytical methods and laboratory processes. A high level of technical writing proficiency is required to document experimental work, prepare detailed laboratory reports, develop technical standards, and support the generation of product specifications and technical bulletins.

The Operations Chemist is also responsible for maintaining laboratory instrumentation, ensuring adherence to safety and regulatory requirements, and managing sample handling, documentation, and disposal. This position plays a key role in supporting both day-to-day operational needs and long-term product development initiatives within the organization.

The work environment is a laboratory setting that prioritizes safety, accuracy, and strong QA/QC practices. It is highly technical, supported by specialized instrumentation and clear procedural expectations. The atmosphere is detail-oriented and quality-driven, fostering precision, consistency, and strong scientific discipline.

The team consists of experienced chemists and technical specialists who each manage their own responsibilities with a high level of independence. The Specialty Chemicals and Lab team at SECURE values technical excellence, reliability, and practical problem-solving.

The responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to:

Laboratory Operations & Sample Analysis

• Receive, log, prepare, and analyze client samples such as oil, water, produced fluids, core, and cuttings.
• Perform analytical testing, including emulsion stability, water quality and compatibility assessments, scale and corrosion tendency evaluations, separation/demulsifier screening, and proppant pack compatibility testing.
• Interpret data, evaluate treatment performance, and prepare clear, technically rigorous laboratory reports.
• Provide recommendations to field operations based on laboratory findings and chemical performance assessments.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and ensure operational readiness of all equipment.
• Execute proper sample preparation, storage, labeling, documentation, and disposal in compliance with internal procedures.
• Ensure full adherence to laboratory safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and quality standards.

Research & Development

• Assist in the formulation, testing, and optimization of new chemical products for production, completions, and water treatment applications.
• Develop and refine analytical methodologies, laboratory procedures, and testing workflows to improve accuracy and reproducibility.
• Document all experimental procedures, observations, and results in accordance with R&D documentation standards.
• Perform data analysis and prepare technical reports, product specifications, and supporting documents for internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor industry developments, emerging technologies, and competitive products to inform innovation initiatives.
• Collaborate with senior technical personnel to transition successful formulations from laboratory development to commercial deployment.

Technical Writing & Communication

• Prepare comprehensive laboratory reports, technical summaries, and data packages outlining methods, results, and recommendations.
• Communicate analytical and experimental findings to internal teams, field personnel, and clients in a clear and scientifically rigorous manner.
• Contribute to the development of SOPs, technical standards, and product documentation.
• Maintain organized, traceable laboratory records and files in accordance with company documentation requirements.