Mechanical Inspector

Position Overview

Mechanical Inspector at a growth-oriented downstream energy company. Reporting to the Chief Inspector, this role supports and executes a comprehensive mechanical integrity program focused on the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of fixed equipment across the refinery. The position requires a strong working knowledge of API and ASME codes, Risk‑Based Inspection methodology, and damage‑mechanism identification. The Mechanical Inspector leads inspections, reviews and interprets NDE results, and develops detailed repair recommendations for pressure vessels, piping, relief devices, tanks, and other critical assets.

It plays a key part in supporting turnaround planning, equipment reliability improvements, and long‑term asset strategies.

• Maintain accurate inspection records for all applicable refinery equipment using IDMS platforms such as PCMS.
• Generate basic IDMS reports (inactive CMLs, equipment service, deferrals/overrides, due dates).
• Inspect and recommend plans for repair and replacement of refinery equipment with assistance from senior inspectors and engineering personnel.
• Develop knowledge of facility operations and how the units impact business economics.
• Perform assigned work efficiently to maximize personal productivity.
• Participate in risk‑based inspection studies, evaluations, and recommendations.
• Calculate remaining life and perform minimum required thickness calculations in accordance with ASME and API codes.
• Assist in approving plant NDE procedures and review NDE results for compliance.
• Assist in monitoring departmental costs.
• Inspect equipment and evaluate data to ensure safe continued operation.
• Document inspection, test, alteration, and repair results in historical records or IDMS.
• Assist in developing NDE and inspection plans based on damage mechanisms (e.g., wet H2S, caustic cracking, amine corrosion).
• Contribute to repair decisions and issue detailed instructions/procedures.
• Review and approve welding procedures and welder qualifications from contractors.
• Review and approve repair procedures from contractors and maintenance personnel.
• Complete vendor surveillance and audits of off‑site constructed equipment, including material verification and quality assurance.
• Develop and write welding procedures for plant maintenance personnel.
• Assist in developing inspection work lists for plant turnarounds with justifications.
• Communicate effectively with work associates and respect varying perspectives.
• Present technical and process calculation information concisely.
• Complete all inspection HAZOP action items assigned through KMS or other databases.
• Complete all incident investigations or follow‑up items as assigned.
• Take initiative to maintain and increase technical knowledge.
• Liaise with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering to develop inspection scopes and communicate asset health.
• Represent the inspection team in mandatory RCA, PHA, and asset‑integrity forums.
• Prepare technically accurate and regulatory‑compliant inspection reports and repair recommendations.
• Assist in supervising contract inspectors and advanced NDE personnel and associated costs during routine work and unit turnarounds.
• Review NDE contractor certifications.
• Communicate clearly, orally and in writing, and give expectations to contact and plant personnel.
• Report progress to supervisor and discuss problems.
• Actively participate in plant safety programs, processes, monthly audits, HAZOP, PHA, MOC reviews, and PSSRs.
• Assist with inspection procedure audits, updates, root‑cause failure analysis, and incident investigations.

• Climb and work at elevations greater than 150 ft using appropriate safety equipment.
• Work in confined spaces and, at times, in supplied breathing air.

• Strong teamwork environment with all refinery departments.
• Turnarounds and unscheduled maintenance may require more than 40 hrs/week.
• Proper PPE required: hearing and eye protection, face shield, goggles, rubber gear, gloves, SCBA, fire‑retardant outerwear.
• Weekend duty assignments periodically required.
• After‑hours callouts periodically required.
• Participation in Incident Command Structure may be required.