Project Engineer, Operations Manager

Location: Alberta

About Deep Sky

Deep Sky is at the forefront of addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change. We are dedicated to developing and implementing Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies that effectively remove excess carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. We are actively working on a series of commercial scale facilities across Canada - come build with us!

Job Overview

As a Project Engineer at Deep Sky, you will contribute to the planning, design, and execution of our Direct Air Capture (DAC) projects, supporting efforts from early design through commissioning and startup. This role is well-suited for someone with a few years of engineering or project experience who is eager to grow. You'll apply your technical skills, coordinate with contractors and internal teams, and help ensure that complex, large-scale infrastructure projects are delivered successfully.

The ideal fit for this role will be motivated by Deep Sky's mission to reverse climate change, eager to apply and grow their engineering skills in a fast-paced, high-impact environment, and bring a collaborative, problem-solving mindset with a strong sense of accountability for technical execution.

Responsibilities

* Own and drive the project schedule, budget, and execution strategy across all phases; planning, design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover.

* Develop and maintain strategic project execution plans that enable expedited delivery.

* Lead all stages of development, including site selection, power sourcing, and financial modelling.

* Drive coordination across internal teams, contractors, and external partners to keep milestones on track.

* Anticipate roadblocks and proactively manage risks, escalating issues when needed.

* Oversee vendor selection and coordination, from procurement through delivery and document reviews.

* Keep project documentation organized - permits, contracts, reports, and everything in between

* Provide concise, high-level updates to senior leadership to support fast decision-making.

* Jump into any phase - design, construction, commissioning - and make progress happen.

* Travel regularly to project sites (3-4 days) to stay close to the work and ensure strong team alignment.

Project Development & Execution

* Lead the development and execution of small to medium capital projects, from feasibility through commissioning.

* Define project scope, prepare cost estimates, and develop detailed schedules.

* Manage procurement processes, including drafting technical specifications and evaluating supplier proposals.

* Supervise contractors, vendors, and consultants to ensure quality, budget, and schedule adherence.

* Track project performance, report on progress, and resolve issues to keep initiatives on target.

* Prepare project documentation, including design packages, progress reports, and close-out reports.

Technical & Continuous Improvement

* Identify and lead initiatives to optimize plant processes, increase energy efficiency, and reduce operating costs.

* Conduct technical studies and recommend innovative solutions aligned with plant development objectives.

* Develop and implement technical standards, procedures, and best practices.

* Stay informed about emerging technologies, regulations, and industry trends to guide future plant development.

Collaboration & Communication

* Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (operations, maintenance, HSE, finance, and project management).

* Lead technical meetings and present project updates to stakeholders.

* Serve as a key liaison with external partners, contractors, and regulatory authorities.

* Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers or interns.

Plant Operations & Support

* Act as the primary engineering contact for daily plant operations, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient performance.

* Troubleshoot complex equipment, system, and process issues to minimize downtime and optimize productivity.

* Lead and coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance strategies with operations and maintenance teams.

* Monitor plant KPIs and implement corrective measures to improve reliability and efficiency.

* Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards across all plant activities.

Basic Qualifications

* 3 years in project management experience in heavy industrial, energy, infrastructure, or environment sector within Canada.

* Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering preferred, or related field.

* Experience with project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent).

* Proven track record delivering complex capital projects on time and on budget.

* Experience managing cross-functional teams, consultants, contractors, and regulatory stakeholders.

* A proactive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to address challenges as they arise.

* An eagerness to learn and take on new challenges in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

* A passion for sustainability and climate-focused technologies.

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