Mechanical Design Engineer

About Northstar Downhole Specialists:

Northstar Downhole Specialists is a leading provider of innovative downhole tools and solutions for reservoir evaluation and intervention. With successful operations in over 30 countries, we supply market-leading services to conventional and unconventional oil & gas operators, carbon capture and storage (CCS), solution mining, helium, lithium, and geothermal exploration, as well as gas storage and disposal projects. Our commitment to excellence, cutting-edge technology, and passion for solving complex challenges that others shy away from have positioned us as a trusted partner in the energy sector.

Engineering at Northstar:

The Engineering group at Northstar is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of downhole tool design and performance, merging a first-principles mindset with an eagerness to adapt quickly to a changing technology landscape. Our team of highly skilled engineers collaborates to create industry-leading solutions that optimize well operations and enhance overall efficiency. From concept to execution, we strive for excellence in every aspect of our work.

To support our growing operations, we are seeking a talented and motivated Mechanical Design Engineer with an entrepreneurial drive to join our dynamic team.

Position Overview: Mechanical Design Engineer

Responsibilities:

Design: Develop innovative downhole tools and components from concept to production, with consideration to functionality, reliability, and manufacturability.

Collaboration: Work closely with other teams, including operations, supply chain, and sales, to ensure seamless integration of engineered solutions into the Northstar ecosystem.

Analysis: Perform rigorous analyses of strength and mechanics of components and assemblies, including Finite Element Analysis, to verify their safety and effectiveness.

Prototyping: Facilitate the prototyping phase of tool development, including vendor management, quality control and hands-on support to ensure designs are manufactured and assembled in accordance with specifications.

Validation Testing: Design and execute tool validation testing programs to standards such as API 19TT & 11D1, including required test equipment design, sourcing, operation, and maintenance.

Documentation & Technical Writing: Create and review comprehensive design documentation, including drawings, specifications, manuals, and reports, to accurately record and effectively communicate complex engineering concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Continuous Improvement: Actively contribute to sustaining engineering and R&D activities (exploring new technologies, industry trends, materials, processes, and methodologies) to enhance our product portfolio, support our equipment in the field and continuously improve our engineering deliverables.

Primary Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field

- 5-10 years of experience in mechanical design of downhole tools, preferably in a R&D role

- Strong understanding of downhole operations, materials, and environments, with a particular focus on high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) service

- Working knowledge of relevant standards and specifications, such as ISO 15156/NACE MR0175, API 5CT, 6ACRA, 11D1, etc

- High degree of proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks) and associated Finite Element Analysis (FEA) packages

- Experience designing high-precision components with tolerances smaller than .001”, including using GD&T to dimension complex features

- Broad exposure to advanced manufacturing methods of downhole tool components, such as machining, additive manufacturing, and molding

- Demonstrated willingness to safely and effectively perform hands-on tasks related to the role, including the use of hand tools and testing equipment

- Excellent problem-solving skills, mechanical aptitude and attention to detail

- Highly effective communication and collaboration skills

- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

- Alberta Class 5 Driver’s License

- Eligible for registration as a P. Eng with APEGA

Secondary Qualifications:

- Experience with the design and/or integration of electromechanical downhole tool components

- Experience with the design of HPHT Packers or Bridge Plugs

- Knowledge with slickline, electric wireline and/or coiled tubing operations

- Knowledge of LabVIEW programming and/or DAQ systems

- Experience programming in VBA in Excel and/or SolidWorks

- Experience operating and/or maintaining high-pressure hydraulic or pneumatic equipment