Plant Operator

About Deep Sky

Deep Sky is at the forefront of addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change. At Deep Sky Alpha - the world’s first carbon removal innovation and commercialization center - we are developing and operating cutting-edge Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies that remove excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. Located in Innisfail, Alberta, our commercial facility brings together multiple DAC systems from leading innovators around the world in a real-world operating environment.

Job Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Plant Operator to support the startup and ongoing operation of our Direct Air Capture facility in Innisfail. Reporting to the Head of Operations, this role is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and troubleshooting plant equipment and capture/regeneration processes while supporting continuous improvement efforts. This is a full-time, 7-on / 7-off rotating day and night shift position in an industrial plant environment requiring PPE.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate DAC process units, sorbent/regeneration systems, blowers, heat exchangers, compressors, pumps and related balance-of-plant equipment.
• Support commissioning and startup activities including pre-startup checks, functional testing, system flushes, and coordination with engineering.
• Monitor process parameters (flow, temperature, pressure, gas composition), execute control actions and maintain process stability.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical and process issues; perform corrective actions or coordinate maintenance teams.
• Conduct daily operational and safety checklists, rounds, and logs; escalate abnormal conditions promptly.
• Perform routine mechanical maintenance, equipment adjustments, and minor repairs as required.
• Assess equipment performance, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and report degradation or opportunities for optimization.
• Execute standard operating procedures (SOPs), lockout/tagout, permit-to-work and all safety protocols.
• Participate in startup/post-startup performance testing, data collection, and root cause investigations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and operator training; mentor junior operators.
• Perform other duties as assigned to meet plant and project objectives.

Qualifications

• 4th Class Power Engineering certification (required).
• 5-10 years commissioning, startup and operating experience in industrial process plants (preferably with gas handling, thermal regeneration, chemical processing, or air separation equipment).
• Strong troubleshooting skills and demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
• Hands-on experience with pumps, compressors, blowers, heat exchangers, valves, instrumentation and basic electrical controls.
• Experience assessing equipment performance and interpreting process data.
• Comfortable working outdoors and at heights; able to perform physical tasks.
• Strong communication skills, teamwork orientation, and a desire to learn and adopt new technologies.
• Willingness to work rotating shift schedules, on-call rotation and flexible hours during commissioning phases.

Desired Assets

• Experience with carbon capture, adsorption/desorption systems, or CO2 handling.
• Familiarity with DCS/PLC systems, PID control and basic process simulation/data analysis tools.
• Trade certification (millwright, mechanic, electrician) or additional power engineering classes.