Lead inspector

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Please note this position is based in the Middle East.

We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Inspector with a proven background in mechanical inspection within the refining and natural gas liquids (NGL) industry. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of inspection codes and standards such as API 510, API 570, API 653, ASME welding codes, and pressure vessel standards. The Lead Inspector will oversee operations services for the refinery and its facilities, ensuring compliance with industry standards, managing inspection schedules, and leading inspection teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all operations services for the refinery, including civil, electrical, piping, process mechanical equipment, pressure vessels, surface preparation, and coating inspection.
• Ensure that all repair, replacement, or facility expansion projects are completed in accordance with applicable codes and standards, or obtain waivers when deviations are necessary.
• Maintain adequate records for equipment/facility inspections and fixed equipment repair histories.
• Provide necessary information for weekly highlights, OP, BP, monthly performance meetings, MIS, Mid-Year, and end-of-year accountability.
• Conduct performance evaluations for field supervisors and specialists, and plan promotions for qualified employees.
• Provide technical assistance to Operations, Maintenance, and special projects to resolve problems related to methods and procedures of work, ensuring compliance with codes and standards.
• Administer training functions within the unit, promoting certification levels.
• Perform periodic on-site inspections of work in progress to resolve issues, offer technical assistance, and assess the adequacy of inspection.
• Collaborate with the Engineering Services Inspection Department to develop new company standards and improve or update existing standards and inspection methods.
• Review designs for plant modifications or repairs to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards.
• Prepare pro-active inspection requirements and forecast the need for new materials for all plant T&I's.
• Ensure an equipment inspection schedule (EIS) is maintained for all refinery plant pressure vessels and fixed equipment, ensuring adherence to approved inspection frequencies.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Education: BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 15 years in the refinery and/or natural gas liquids industry, with at least 10 years of field experience working on plant major turnarounds, field troubleshooting, and inspections.
  • Nine years in petroleum or similar process industries with three years in quality assurance, enforcing and/or formulating codes and standards.
  • At least 15 years of field inspection experience with proven leadership capabilities in the company.
• Certifications:
  • Certification in two of the following API accreditations: API 510, API 570, API 653.
  • Certified Welding Inspector (CSWIP 3.1 or CWI/AWS).
  • NACE Certified Coating Inspector Level II.
  • Qualified NDT Examiner (Visual/Penetrant/Ultrasonic/Magnetic Particle Testing).
  • Knowledge of ASME, API, AWS, and NACE standards.
• Skills:
  • Thorough knowledge of US and Saudi Aramco inspection/mechanical codes and standards, construction and maintenance procedures, and up-to-date materials testing techniques.
  • Strong understanding of corrosion principles and failure mechanisms in refinery-specific applications.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
  • Proven leadership and ability to manage teams effectively.
  • Ability to solve technical problems and provide assistance in the resolution of issues related to inspection, materials, and standards.