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Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot Jobs in Minnesota

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Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot information

What does a full time pipeline inspection pilot do?

A Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot is responsible for flying aircraft or drones along pipelines to inspect them for leaks, damage, or other issues. They help ensure the safety and integrity of pipeline infrastructure by identifying potential problems early. The pilot documents findings, reports hazards, and often works with maintenance teams to address issues. This role requires specialized training, a pilot’s license, and knowledge of safety regulations related to both aviation and pipeline operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time pipeline inspection pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot's license, strong aerial navigation skills, and knowledge of FAA regulations, often supported by specialized training in pipeline patrol operations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial imaging equipment, and digital reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work independently are vital soft skills for this position. These skills ensure accurate, safe, and efficient inspection of pipeline infrastructure, protecting both environmental and operational integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by full time pipeline inspection pilots, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety regulations, and maintaining situational awareness over long inspection routes. These challenges are typically addressed through thorough pre-flight planning, regular training on updated procedures, and close coordination with ground crews and dispatchers. Staying organized and maintaining clear communication with both the inspection team and operations control helps ensure inspections are completed safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot vs Pipeline Inspection Technician?

AspectFull Time Pipeline Inspection PilotPipeline Inspection Technician
CertificationsFAA pilot license, safety trainingPipeline safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentAircraft, outdoor pipeline routesGround-based, pipeline sites
Job RoleFlying aircraft to inspect pipelinesOperating equipment, inspecting pipelines on-site

While both roles involve pipeline inspection, the Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot primarily operates aircraft for aerial surveys, requiring pilot licenses and flight experience. In contrast, the Pipeline Inspection Technician works on the ground, focusing on technical inspections and equipment handling. The roles differ mainly in work environment and required certifications, but both are essential for pipeline safety and maintenance.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Pipeline Inspection Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution.

Full-Time PLI Techs (Pipeline Integrity) - Duluth, MN

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Duluth, MN • On-site

$32.69 - $52.88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Acuren rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Position Summary

Acuren is recruiting for full-time PLI Technicians for our Duluth, MN location.  

Relocation Assistance and Sign-On Bonus available for qualified candidates.  

Responsibilities

Working in the Pipeline Integrity Services group, a range of technical and operational assignments will be conducted relating to pipeline field examination, analysis, review, and reporting of pipeline inspection data, ultimately supporting our customers' pipeline integrity management programs. Approximately 90% of this role will be spent in the field, field office, and traveling across the US. 10% of time will be spent at the home division location. The PLI Technician will work independently for extended periods in remote areas.

  • Adherence to Acuren and customer required procedures and specifications, including reports
  • Perform direct assessment of as-found pipe condition, including coating assessment, soils and topography, and cathodic protection
  • Perform direct examination to assess pipe for cracks, corrosion, deformation, and manufacturing anomalies
  • Correlate as-found pipe features to Inline Inspection (ILI) log
  • Conduct fit-for-service evaluations as per ASME B31.3 and RSTRENG
  • Conduct hazard assessments prior to beginning work and follow safe work procedures
  • Calibration and set up of NDE equipment
  • Provide clients with quality services in a timely manner
  • Follow regulatory requirements, work to codes, procedures, and techniques
  • Be responsible for the custody, care and correct use of valuable technical equipment, tools, machinery, publications, materials, job items, vehicles, and other assets
  • Understanding of Pipeline Integrity processes, techniques, and procedures
  • Compose and write pipeline integrity inspection reports, including assisting other pipeline integrity technicians with reporting
  • Maintaining metrics on reporting, costs, productivity, and priority digs
  • Updating pipeline integrity databases and managing FTP sites
  • Attending operational meetings with customer engineers and project engineers/managers
  • Assist with dig package and cost estimating
  • Responsible for on-the-job training and guidance of PLI Assistants and PLI Junior Technicians
Requirements
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Must have required QA documentation (proof of classroom hours & proof of experience hours)
  • Some college preferred
  • Technical background desired
  • Experience working with pipeline integrity or pipeline maintenance positions
  • Extensive knowledge of quality and safety requirements
  • Candidate must have current and valid Magnetic Particle Testing Level 2 and Ultrasonic Thickness Level 2
  • Candidate must have at least one of the following certifications or endorsements:
    • Creaform 3D Laser Scanning (Handyscan)
    • Automated Corrosion Scan Mapping
    • Ultrasonic Phased Array or TOFD
    • In-situ Material Verification (Frontics or MMT HSD Tester)
  • Candidate preference for NACE Level CIP Level I / CP Level I
Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Pay Transparency: As per applicable state law the job posting pay range is $32.69 - $52.88//hr depending on experience and applicable certifications.
Company Overview

Acuren is a trusted, single source provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring services.

Our work is critical to the integrity and safety of industrial firms, including petroleum refinery, pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive industries. Acuren employs over 4,000 dedicated professionals supporting the mechanical integrity and inspection programs of the world's largest industrial segments.

Acuren is a market leader. Our formula for success is straightforward: be capable locally, with certified and well-equipped personnel supported by trained, experienced leaders. Continuing to build on a strong heritage of safety, quality and professionalism, Acuren strives to maintain incident free work environments, pursues advanced technical developments, and supports reliability programs that are valued by clients and employees. 

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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