Inspector, Oil Sands Thermal Operations

Location: Fort McMurray, Alberta

Employment Type: Full Time – Permanent

Salary Range: T3, Level 5, $102, 000.00 - $120, 000.00 per year. The final compensation for this position will be determined based on individual factors, including education, qualifications, experience, and internal equity. This position may be eligible to receive a Northern Living allowance. Northern Living allowances are provided based on the location of the position and where an employee primarily works and resides.

Inspector, Oil Sands Thermal Operations

The Opportunity­­

The Alberta Energy Regulator’s (AER) Regulatory Compliance (RC) branch is looking for an Inspector to join the Field Operations Northeast team. Are you passionate about thermal production operations, environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance? Do you thrive in dynamic environments where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a real impact? If so, we have the perfect role for you! As an Inspector with our Regulatory Compliance branch, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and environmental integrity of our operations.

You will independently assess and respond to incidents and stakeholder complaints, conduct thorough compliance assurance activities, and represent the AER in various industry forums. This position not only allows you to work independently and with a dedicated and supportive team but also offers the chance to lead complex inspections and contribute to provincial initiatives. Join us and be a part of a mission-driven organization that values your expertise and commitment to protecting Alberta’s resources.

What your day-to-day will look like

• Lead and independently conduct complex inspections on operations/activities within the AER’s jurisdiction. Prepare inspection plans and sampling equipment (if necessary). Collect and analyze information from varied and numerous sources to determine compliance, resolve problems and make recommendations to improve regulatory and environmental practices. Prepare letters and inspection reports. Perform follow up action as required or forward the non-compliance item for possible enforcement action to an investigator.

• Respond to calls on the 24-hour emergency response/complaint line (on-call). Respond to and support others in handling incidents and stakeholder complaints. Support the resolution of complex complaints between AER stakeholders.

• Contribute to provincial initiatives or assignments related to operational needs, regulatory, and technical issues as appropriate. Participate in technical teams to develop and implement policies and procedures. Act as a subject matter expert, providing support to hearings or ADR sessions as required.

• Support provincial teams as needed and be a primary representative when developing proactive inspection programs. Share information between provincial teams and field centre teams. Assist and/or train and mentor other staff as needed.

• Communicate and consult with industry regarding areas of concern. Lead meetings and deliver technical presentations to industry and government agencies. Participate in synergy groups and at open houses.

• Adhere to all safety procedures, including completion of field site hazard assessments, following PPE protocols, conducting bump testing and calibration of monitors, and following safe driving practices.

What we’re looking for in you

• Diploma in engineering, environmental sciences or other related fields.

• 6+ years directly regulatory or field operations; or extensive related oil and gas experience.

• Strong understanding of thermal production operations, oil sands mining, including regulatory requirements and operational best practices.

• Preference will be given to candidate with the following experience:

  • Facility operations experience at enhanced oil recovery projects including SAGD or CSS.

  • Conventional oil & gas production operations.

  • Specified enactment legislation: Public lands, EPEA, Water Act.

• Highly independent and flexible, with the ability to adapt to changing situations and environments.

• High degree of initiative, capable of taking proactive steps to close knowledge gaps, address issues and improve processes.

• Comfortable working alone in remote environments, with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.

• Detail-oriented to ensure data integrity and accuracy in all inspections and reports

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Additional Information

• All applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada at the time of application.

• Should an individual with the required qualifications not be available, applicants with closely related qualifications may be considered. As a result, the position may be redesigned and/or reclassified.

• Pre-placement Medical required.

• Possess a fully valid class 5 driver’s license along with a positive driving record.

• Must have physical ability to conduct typical Oil & Gas field work, including driving prolonged distances, climbing stairs, ladders, etc., walking around industrial sites, walking into remote locations where necessary, and ability to work in all weather conditions.

• First Aid, H2S Alive, and defensive driver training are required, and will be provided.

• Some overnight travel may be required on occasion and up to several times per year.

• This role has a business requirement to work from the Fort McMurray Regional Office.

• If you need accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please email PeopleServices@aer.ca. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

What we offer you

• Opportunity to make a difference and be part of a performance driven team that is responsible for the efficient, safe, orderly, and environmentally responsible development of Alberta’s energy and mineral resources.

• The ability to leverage your expertise and critical thinking skills to contribute in wide-ranging, challenging, and complex work.

• Robust total reward packages including; a competitive compensation program, defined benefit pension plan(s), flexible benefits, and wellness programs. 

More information about working at the AER including our comprehensive Total Rewards package can be found in the careers section of our website https://www.aer.ca/providing-information/about-the-aer/careers/what-we-offer. 

Our Commitment to Diversity

At the AER, our values of Accountability, Collaboration, Transparency, and Trust & Respect are foundational to our culture – a culture where every individual, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected factors, thrives and contributes their unique perspectives.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion fuels innovation, creating a brighter, more sustainable Alberta for all. Join us in shaping this dynamic future.

Application closing date: October 4, 2026, at midnight