Plant Operator
Deep Sky
Apply to this job Innisfail, AB, Canada on site Until 8/25/2026 5+ years exp First posted March 22, 2025 Last posted June 26, 2026
Job description
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.
Why Join Deep Sky?
Be part of a mission-driven team focused on fighting climate change. Work with cutting-edge technology in a dynamic and innovative environment. Competitive compensation and benefits package. Opportunities for growth and professional development.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of the future of carbon removal, we want to hear from you! Please apply with your resume and outline your qualifications and interest in the role.
About this role
Summary
Operate and troubleshoot DAC plant equipment, monitor processes, perform maintenance, ensure safety.
Job title
Plant Operator
Experience level
5+ years
Minimum experience
5+ years exp
Industry
industrial processing
Location requirements
On-site in Innisfail, AB, Canada; rotating shifts allowed.
Salary
Not specified
Management role
No
Skills & keywords
Required skills
4th Class Power Engineeringtroubleshootingmechanical aptitudepumpscompressorsblowersheat exchangersvalvesinstrumentationelectrical controls
Preferred skills
carbon captureadsorption/desorptionCO2 handlingDCSPLCPID controlprocess data analysistrade certificationpower engineering classes
Specializations
power engineeringgas handlingthermal regenerationchemical processing
Locations
Structured locations inferred from the posting.
Innisfail, AB, Canada
On-site City