API Inspector

Precision-Ndt; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Precision Group is seeking an API Inspector to perform inspections of pressure vessels, piping systems, tanks, and related equipment across field locations. You will apply API 510/570/653 standards, document findings, and support corrosion monitoring and mechanical integrity programs.

The role requires travel to client sites, strong technical knowledge, and the ability to produce precise inspection reports while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Current API 510, API 570, and/or API 653 certifications as applicable.
• Experience in industrial inspection or mechanical integrity fields preferred.
• Ability to interpret drawings, P&IDs, and equipment specs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of pressure vessels, piping, tanks, and related equipment per API standards.
• Utilize API 510/570/653 certifications to assess condition and life expectancy.
• Document findings with photos, measurements, and reports.
• Coordinate NDT activities as needed and maintain inspection records.

Skills

API inspection

Reading technical drawings

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

NDT equipment familiarity

Inspection reporting software

Job description

API InspectorThe Precision Group | Precision NDTJob Title: API InspectorDepartment: Operations / Inspection ServicesReports To: Operations Manager / Inspection SupervisorFLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Subject to Position Classification Review)Work Location: Various Field Locations – Travel RequiredPosition SummaryThe API Inspector is responsible for conducting inspections, evaluations, and assessments of industrial equipment, piping systems, pressure vessels, storage tanks, and related components to ensure compliance with applicable American Petroleum Institute (API) standards, industry codes, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.This position requires technical knowledge of inspection procedures, corrosion monitoring, mechanical integrity, and nondestructive testing (NDT) methods. The API Inspector is responsible for identifying equipment deficiencies, documenting inspection findings, and providing recommendations to support safe and reliable operations.The ideal candidate demonstrates strong analytical skills, attention to detail, technical expertise, and a commitment to workplace safety.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPerform inspections of pressure vessels, piping systems, storage tanks, and associated equipment in accordance with applicable API standards and certification qualifications.Conduct inspections under API 510, API 570, API 653, or other applicable inspection standards based on current certifications.Evaluate equipment condition, corrosion, deterioration, mechanical damage, and potential structural deficiencies.Review inspection histories, equipment drawings, engineering documentation, and previous inspection reports.Perform visual inspections and coordinate nondestructive testing activities when required.Measure and document material thickness, corrosion rates, and remaining service life.Evaluate inspection findings against applicable codes, standards, and customer requirements.Identify deficiencies and communicate findings to supervisors, engineering personnel, and customers.Prepare accurate and detailed inspection reports, including photographs, measurements, findings, and recommendations.Assist with mechanical integrity programs, inspection planning, and preventive maintenance activities.Verify that inspection activities comply with established quality assurance and quality control procedures.Participate in pre-job safety meetings, job safety analyses (JSAs), and hazard assessments.Maintain inspection equipment and ensure instruments are properly calibrated when applicable.Follow all applicable OSHA regulations, customer safety requirements, and company policies.Maintain accurate records and submit required reports within established deadlines.Travel to customer locations and perform inspections as operational needs require.Perform additional duties as assigned by management.Required QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED required.Current API 510, API 570, and/or API 653 certification, depending on assigned inspection responsibilities.Previous experience in industrial inspection, mechanical integrity, or related technical fields.Knowledge of applicable API standards, ASME codes, and industry inspection practices.Ability to interpret technical drawings, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), inspection reports, and equipment specifications.Understanding of corrosion mechanisms, material degradation, and inspection methodologies.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Ability to prepare accurate technical reports and maintain organized inspection records.Proficiency with computers and inspection reporting software.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in industrial environments.Ability to travel, work extended hours, and accommodate varying customer schedules.Ability to meet applicable company and customer drug and alcohol screening requirements.Valid driver's license and acceptable motor vehicle record when driving is an essential job function.Preferred QualificationsMultiple API certifications, including API 510, API 570, and API 653.Additional API certifications, such as API 580 or API 571.NDT Level II certification in Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT), or Visual Testing (VT).Experience working in refineries, petrochemical facilities, pipelines, terminals, or power generation facilities.Familiarity with risk-based inspection (RBI) programs and mechanical integrity management systems.Experience using inspection data management software.OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 training.Confined Space Entry training.TWIC card or ability to obtain one when required by customer facilities.Physical RequirementsThe API Inspector must be capable of performing the essential physical functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.Lifting and Carrying: Frequently lift, carry, and transport inspection tools, testing instruments, and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Occasionally lift or move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds with appropriate assistance when necessary.Standing and Walking: Frequently stand and walk for extended periods, including on concrete, gravel, metal grating, uneven terrain, and industrial surfaces.Climbing: Regularly climb stairs, ladders, platforms, scaffolding, and industrial structures to access equipment and inspection locations.Working at Heights: Perform inspections on elevated platforms, scaffolding, ladders, and other approved work surfaces while using required fall protection equipment.Bending and Stooping: Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, squat, and reach to access inspection points and equipment components.Crawling and Restricted Movement: Occasionally crawl or maneuver through narrow openings, restricted workspaces, and difficult-to-access inspection areas.Confined Spaces: Enter and perform inspections inside tanks, vessels, and other permit-required confined spaces when properly trained, authorized, and equipped.Reaching and Manual Dexterity: Frequently use hands and arms to operate inspection instruments, measuring devices, cameras, and other technical equipment.Vision Requirements: Possess the functional visual abilities necessary to perform detailed visual inspections, identify surface defects, read gauges, interpret technical documents, and recognize potential safety hazards. Must meet applicable visual acuity and color discrimination requirements associated with assigned inspection certifications.Hearing Requirements: Possess the functional hearing abilities necessary to communicate effectively, recognize audible alarms, and identify potential workplace hazards, with appropriate accommodations when applicable.Balance and Coordination: Maintain balance while navigating industrial structures, elevated platforms, ladders, and uneven surfaces.Repetitive Movements: Perform repetitive hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder movements when operating inspection equipment or documenting findings.Personal Protective Equipment: Wear required PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe or safety-toe footwear, flame-resistant clothing, hearing protection, respiratory protection, and fall protection equipment as applicable.Physical Endurance: Perform physically demanding inspection activities for extended periods, including working in awkward positions and accessing equipment in challenging environments.Work EnvironmentWork is primarily performed at industrial facilities, including refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, pipelines, terminals, and storage tank facilities.Regular exposure to outdoor weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, and changing temperatures.Potential exposure to industrial noise, dust, fumes, chemicals, moving machinery, and hazardous materials.Inspection activities may require working at elevated heights, inside confined spaces, or near operating industrial equipment.Work may involve exposure to hot surfaces, pressurized equipment, and other industrial hazards.Travel to customer locations, including overnight assignments, may be required.Work schedules may include extended shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on project requirements.Employees must comply with all applicable customer-specific safety and site access requirements.Safety and Compliance ExpectationsAll API Inspectors are expected to maintain a safety-first approach and comply with company policies, customer requirements, and applicable industry standards.Employees must:Maintain all required API certifications and complete assigned continuing education and safety training.Follow established inspection procedures, quality standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.Participate in required job safety analyses, toolbox meetings, and hazard assessments.Properly inspect and maintain assigned tools, instruments, and personal protective equipment.Immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, near misses, and equipment deficiencies.Follow applicable lockout/tagout, confined space entry, fall protection, and hazard communication procedures.Exercise stop-work authority whenever unsafe conditions are identified.Perform only those inspection activities for which they are properly qualified, certified, and authorized.Maintain accurate and timely inspection documentation.Comply with company policies regarding professional conduct, attendance, equipment use, and customer interactions.The Precision Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment.