Rope Access Insulator

Bilfinger; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Bilfinger is seeking a Rope Access Insulator to install, maintain, and remove thermal insulation on piping, vessels, tanks, and related equipment within petrochemical and industrial facilities.

The role uses industrial rope access techniques to access elevated and difficult areas while performing insulation work according to project specifications, safety requirements, and quality standards. Requires SPRAT certification and experience in petrochemical environments.

Qualifications

• Must have rope access safety training and field inspection experience.
• Ability to read insulation drawings, specs, and work packages.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and radiation control.

Responsibilities

• Perform insulation using rope access methods per procedures and codes.
• Work at height using rope access systems safely and efficiently.
• Conduct safety checks on ropes, harnesses, and equipment.
• Follow safety procedures and industry regulations (IRATA or SPRAT).
• Complete risk assessments and job safety analyses (JSA).
• Document work performed and report hazards or issues.
• Assist in rescue operations if required.
• Install, remove, and repair insulation materials (mineral wool, calcium silicate, foam glass, aerogel, cryogenic insulation, removable blankets).
• Measure, cut, fit, and secure insulation on piping, vessels, valves, and equipment.
• Install metal jacketing, lagging, and weatherproofing systems.
• Read insulation drawings and reports; verify quality and compliance.
• Maintain material handling and inventory control.

Skills

Rope access safety

Field inspection teamwork

Reading drawings

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

SPRAT Level I or II Certification

NDT Level II certification

Tools

SPRAT Standards

ASME/API knowledge

Job description

Bilfinger is an international industrial services providerwith a vision to be the No. 1 for its customers in enhancing efficiency and sustainability within the process industry. Bilfinger’s comprehensive portfolio spans the entire value chain, from consulting & engineering to prefabrication & installation, access & insulation, and services that improve the asset performance of industrial plants.

The company operates in three geography-based segments: Western Europe, Central Europe, and International, with primary activities in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Its process industry customers come from markets such as chemicals & petrochemicals, energy, oil & gas, and pharma & biopharma. With about 31,000 employees, Bilfinger upholds the highest standards of safety and quality, generating revenue of €5.4 billion in the financial year 2025. To achieve its goals, Bilfinger has identified two strategic levers: Operational Excellence to continuously improve its own efficiency and performance, and Market Expansion to strengthen customer orientation and establish Bilfinger as the partner of choice.

The Rope Access Insulator is responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, and removal of thermal insulation systems on piping, vessels, tanks, heat exchangers, and structural components within petrochemical and industrial facilities. Utilizing industrial rope access techniques, the technician safely accesses elevated and difficult-to-reach areas while performing insulation work in accordance with project specifications, safety requirements, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs Insulation using rope access methods in accordance with written procedures, applicable codes, and customer requirements
• Perform work at height using rope access systems safely and efficiently
• Conduct safety checks on ropes, harnesses, anchors, and other equipment
• Follow safety procedures and industry regulations (e.g., IRATA or SPRAT standards)
• Complete risk assessments and job safety analysis (JSA)
• Document work performed and report any hazards or structural issues
• Assist in rescue operations if required
• Install, remove, and repair various insulation materials including:
  • Mineral wool
  • Calcium silicate
  • Foam glass
  • Aerogel
  • Cryogenic insulation systems
  • Removable insulation blankets
• Measure, cut, fit, and secure insulation on process piping, vessels, valves, and equipment.
• Install metal jacketing, lagging, and weatherproofing systems.
• Read and interpret insulation drawings, specifications, and work packages.
• Perform inspections to verify insulation quality and compliance with project requirements.
• Maintain proper material handling and inventory control.

Authority Note:
The Rope Access Technician exercises inspection authority within the limits of their certifications, written procedures, and applicable codes, including the authority to accept or reject indications in accordance with Rope Access responsibilities.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required

Certifications

• Current SPRAT Level I or II Certification
• NDT Level II certification is a plus
• Insulation and painting experience

Experience

• Prior experience within petrochemical plants, refineries, or offshore facilities.
• Confined Space and Advanced Rescue training.
• Basic scaffold awareness and industrial construction knowledge.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience performing Rope Access Methods
• Demonstrated working knowledge of applicable codes and standards (e.g., SPRAT, ASME, AWS, API as applicable)
• Familiarity with inspection documentation, reporting systems, and recordkeeping requirements

Additional Requirements

• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and radiation control
• Ability to work independently or as part of a field inspection team
• Valid driver’s license
• Current OSHA Basic
• Valid TWIC card, or the ability to obtain one
• Previous Classroom and OJT Hours
• Ability to pass pre ‑ employment drug, alcohol screening and a background check
• Ability to work in industrial environments, including climbing, confined spaces, elevated structures, and varying weather conditions
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including nights or weekends, as required by job scope

If you have any questions please contactJacquelyn Griffith ([e-mail]).

Bilfinger is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or other characteristics protected by law.