Commissioning Operator

Job Title: Commissioning Operator – Air Separation Unit (ASU)

Location: Sherwood Park, Alberta

Contract Duration: March 30, 2026 – March 30, 2027 (1 year)

The Commissioning Operator for the Air Separation Unit (ASU) supports the safe and efficient startup, testing, and stabilization of the ASU during the commissioning phase. Reporting to the Commissioning Coordinator, this role involves hands‑on fieldwork, troubleshooting equipment, system verification, and supporting the transition to full operational readiness. The operator will collaborate closely with vendors, contractors, and operations personnel to ensure all systems meet design and safety standards.

• Follow all site‑specific safety directives, including SIMOPS/SIT plans.
• Adhere to EH&S standards, including permitting, LOTO, and Basic Safety Process (BSP).
• Act as a Safety Ambassador by participating in drills, inspections, toolbox talks, and safety meetings.
• Ensure timely reporting of all incidents and near misses.

• Work with the Commissioning Coordinator to understand commissioning and startup plans.
• Review System Commissioning Packages and procedures.
• Complete Safety Work Permit (SWP) training.
• Build familiarity with ASU systems, equipment, and operational procedures.

• Support Construction Complete (CC) and Mechanically Complete (MC) walk‑downs.
• Install energy isolations and issue SWPs as required.
• Execute commissioning and startup procedures under direction of the ASU CSU Coordinator.
• Redline Operations Site Work Instruction Manuals (SWIMs/Operating Procedures).
• Work with critical cryogenic equipment including compressors, compandors, cryogenic pumps, and cold box cooldown systems.
• Monitor and support vendor and contractor activities on‑site.
• Provide mentorship and share commissioning/startup experience with junior team members.
• Assist in training Operations personnel.
• Complete daily progress reporting and other assigned duties.

• Minimum 4th Class Power Engineer certification.
• Required safety certifications:
  • CSTS-20
  • Basic Scaffold Safety
  • Fall Protection
  • Confined Space Entry & Monitoring
  • WHMIS
  • H2S Alive

• 3–5 years of hands‑on operator experience with cryogenic air separation units (ASU).
• Commissioning or startup experience in industrial projects is strongly preferred.

• Strong understanding of cryogenic air separation processes, distillation, and molecular sieve (TSA) systems.
• Knowledge of oxygen system safety, cleanliness protocols, and high‑pressure oxygen handling.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and process issues in field environments.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed.

We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market‑leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.