API Inspector

Kuraray America•Pasadena, TX

13h•Onsite

About The Position

The API Inspector will interface with plant personnel and contracted inspection services to define, coordinate, and execute comprehensive fixed equipment and piping inspection activities in accordance with plant requirements, industry standards, and regulatory guidelines. This position ensures the integrity and safety of critical plant assets through expert application of API standards, non-destructive examination techniques, and Mechanical Integrity program management. The API Inspector is assigned to the Maintenance Department and reports directly to the Assistant Maintenance Manager.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Minimum 10 years of hands-on piping and fixed equipment inspection experience in routine maintenance, turnaround maintenance, or combined maintenance environments
Demonstrated experience performing and interpreting results from multiple NDE techniques: ultrasonic thickness testing (UT), liquid penetrant testing (PT), magnetic particle testing (MT), radiographic testing (RT), visual inspection (VT), and positive material identification (PMI)
Must have the following certifications: API 510, API 570, API 653
Experience in quality assurance and quality control of fabricating piping and equipment in chemical plants and/or refineries
Proven ability to lead and direct contract inspection activities across various project types
Experience working with Inspection Data Management Systems, specifically PCMS or similar platforms
Experience working with multi-discipline teams to develop comprehensive repair and testing strategies
Extensive knowledge of PSM, Mechanical Integrity, and RMP programs
Strong working knowledge of P&IDs and PFDs
Demonstrated experience with corrosion systemization and circuitization
Experience establishing and managing Risk Based Inspection (RBI) programs
Experience ensuring compliance with RAGAGEP requirements
Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

Fixed Equipment Mechanical Integrity Program
Own, maintain, and continuously improve the plant's Mechanical Integrity program for fixed equipment and piping systems based on corporate standards, local site requirements, API standards, and OSHA regulations
Define and lead comprehensive inspection strategies for fixed equipment and piping across routine maintenance, turnaround, capital projects, and special project activities
Establish and manage Risk Based Inspection (RBI) programs to optimize inspection frequency and resource allocation
Ensure compliance with Recognized and Generally Accepted Good Engineering Practices (RAGAGEP)
Inspection Planning and Execution
Conduct detailed assessments of fixed plant equipment including pressure vessels, storage tanks, piping systems, and associated components using API 510, API 570, and API 653 methodologies
Define scope of work for contract inspection services and coordinate activities between all contract inspection personnel
Lead and direct contract inspection activities for routine maintenance, turnarounds, capital projects, and special projects
Perform and oversee various non-destructive examination (NDE) techniques including ultrasonic thickness testing (UT), liquid penetrant testing (PT), magnetic particle testing (MT), radiographic testing (RT), visual inspection (VT), and positive material identification (PMI)
Technical Analysis and Reporting
Analyze inspection data and provide actionable results to operations, maintenance, and turnaround teams to ensure equipment meets operational and safety standards
Write, evaluate, and improve inspection reports with clear recommendations for equipment maintenance and repair strategies
Conduct audits of equipment operating conditions and provide evidence-based recommendations for maintenance actions
Work with multi-discipline teams to develop repair and testing strategies for piping and fixed equipment
Apply corrosion systemization and circuitization principles to optimize inspection programs
Data and Cost Management
Manage inspection data and ensure proper storage and organization in Plant Condition Management System (PCMS) or equivalent Inspection Data Management Systems
Produce accurate cost estimates for inspection activities related to turnarounds, capital projects, and special projects
Maintain comprehensive equipment data and inspection history records
Ensure reports, recommendations, and required actions are completed in a timely manner
Safety and Compliance
Work safely by consistently following all policies, procedures, and leadership expectations
Maintain extensive knowledge of Process Safety Management (PSM), Mechanical Integrity, and Risk Management Plan (RMP) programs
Identify and address instances of noncompliance with organizational policies and relevant regulatory codes
Conduct investigations of standard incidents using current regulatory and compliance processes
Quality Assurance
Provide quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) oversight for fabrication of piping and equipment
Verify that inspection activities conform to specifications and regulatory requirements
Specify remedial works needed to ensure conformance with applicable standards