Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Lead, SD (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Inspector
Posting Start Date: 7/9/26
Job Location (Short): Newcastle, WY, USA, 82701
Mechanical Inspector
The Opportunity

• Mechanical Inspector at a growth-oriented downstream energy company
• Reporting to the Chief Inspector, this position is responsible for supporting and executing a comprehensive mechanical integrity program focused on the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of fixed equipment across the refinery.
• This is a highly technical role requiring a strong working knowledge of API and ASME codes, Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) methodology, and damage mechanism identification. The Mechanical Inspector will lead and perform inspections, review and interpret NDE results, and develop detailed repair recommendations for pressure vessels, piping, relief devices, tanks, and other critical assets. This role plays a key part in supporting turnaround planning, equipment reliability improvements, and long-term asset strategies.
• The ideal candidate brings sound judgment, a proactive approach, and the ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and maintenance. This position is suited for an inspector capable of providing technical leadership and driving continuous improvement within the inspection program.

Key activities include:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain accurate inspection records for all applicable refinery equipment in accordance with inspection procedures and company standards, using IDMS platforms (e.g., PCMS or equivalent).

• Understand and generate basic IDMS reports including inactive CML's, equipment service, deferrals / overrides, and due dates.
• Inspect and recommend plans for repair and replacement of refinery equipment with assistance from senior inspector(s) and engineering personnel.
• Develop knowledge and understanding of facility operations and how the specific units impact the economics of the business
• Perform assigned work efficiently and effectively to maximize personal productivity
• Participate in risk-based inspection studies, evaluations, and recommendations
• Calculate the remaining life of selected equipment in accordance with ASME and API Codes
• Perform minimum required thickness calculations in accordance with ASME and API Codes
• Assist in the approval of plant NDE procedures
• Review NDE results for clarity, content and ASME/API Code compliance
• Assist in monitoring department costs

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Inspect equipment and evaluate data results to ensure equipment is safe for continued operation
• Document results of all inspections, tests, alterations, and equipment repairs in equipment history files or IDMS
• Assist in making NDE and inspection plans for equipment, based on damage mechanisms such as wet H2S, caustic cracking, amine corrosion, etc.
• Make or contribute to repair decisions and issue detailed repair instructions / procedures and solicits assistance when required
• Review and approve welding procedures and welder performance qualifications submitted by contractors
• Review and approve repair procedures submitted by contractors and plant maintenance personnel
• Complete, with assistance as needed, vendor surveillance and audits of equipment being constructed off site. This includes, but is not limited to, material verification, dimensional checks, inspection and quality assurance reviews
• Develop and write welding procedures for plant maintenance personnel
• On a limited basis, assist in the development of inspection work lists for plant turnarounds along with detailed justifications for the work to be completed
• Communicate well with work associates. Demonstrate ability to respect varying perspectives and work in a collaborative manner
• Be able to present basic technical and process calculation information in a concise and understandable manner
• Participate in the completion of all inspection HAZOP action items assigned through KMS or other data base
• Participate in the completion of all Incident Investigations or inspection follow-up items, as assigned through KMS or other data base
• Takes initiative to maintain and increase technical knowledge
• Liaise with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering to develop inspection scopes and communicate asset health.
• Represent Inspection in multi-disciplinary Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Process Hazard Analyses (PHA), and other asset integrity forums
• Prepare technically accurate and regulatory-compliant inspection reports and repair recommendations in alignment with industry regulations and company recordkeeping standards.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• At times, assist in supervising inspection activities for contract inspectors and specialized / advanced NDE personnel and the associated costs during routine work and for unit turnarounds
• At times, assist with the review of NDE contractor certifications
• Communicate with a clear, concise, and accurate expression of facts, orally and written
• Give clear expectations to contract inspectors on inspection and technical issues as necessary
• Give clear expectations to other plant personnel on inspection and technical issues as necessary
• Report progress to and discusses problems with supervisor

PROCESS SAFETY MANAGEMENT / SAFETY

• Actively participate in plant safety programs, processes, and promote safety leading by example
• Actively complete monthly safety audits
• Participate and provide valued input to HAZOP, PHA, MOC reviews, and complete PSSR's
• Participate and assist with inspection procedure audits and updates
• Assist with root cause failure analysis of equipment as necessary
• Assist with incident investigations as necessary

Note: This description is intended to give you a general overview of the position. Additional responsibilities and opportunities may be identified based on current business needs.
Qualifications
To meet the basic qualifications for this role, you will have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship.
Additional qualifications include:

• Must be 18 years old or older with a High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Minimum of 5 years' refinery experience with at least 3 years' inspection experience required
• Must maintain a valid driver's license with a safe driving record throughout employment
• API-510 Pressure Vessel Inspector Certification required
• API-570 Piping Inspector Certification preferred or good working knowledge of this code and working towards certification required
• API-653 Above Ground Storage Tank Inspector Certification preferred or good working knowledge of this code and working towards certification
• Knowledge and interpretation skills of the following Codes: ASME Section 8, ASME B31.3, ASME Section 9, ASME PCC-2, ASME Section 2 (parts C and D), and ASME Section 5 preferred. Will be required to learn
• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) through American Welding Society preferred
• Non-Destructive Testing Level II Certifications preferred or a good understanding of the techniques in the following methods: Dye Penetrant, Ultrasonic Thickness required
• Certification as Certified Radiographic Interpreter (CRI) through the American Welding Society preferred. Will be required to learn
• Knowledge of refinery damage mechanisms preferred. Will be required to learn
• Proficiency in computer-based inspection data systems, reporting tools (e.g., Excel), and technical documentation software is required. Strong communication and collaboration skills with ability to clearly present technical information across departments

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to climb and work at elevations more than 150 feet using the appropriate safety equipment
• Must be able to work in confined spaces and at times in supplied breathing air

WORKING CONDITIONS AND ENVIRONMENT

• Strong teamwork environment with all refinery departments is expected
• During Turnarounds and unscheduled maintenance activities will require more than 40 hours per week
• Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hearing and eye protection, face shield, goggles, rubber gear, gloves, SCBA, and fire-retardant outer wear are required
• Weekend duty assignments are periodically required
• After-hours callouts are periodically required
• Participation in Incident Command Structure may be required

About Us
At Par Pacific, we own and operate market-leading energy and infrastructure businesses in logistically complex markets. We have built a team of downstream industry veterans and subject matter experts to lead our organization with an entrepreneurial spirit and a collaborative, problem solving approach. We bring our diverse strengths and motivation to complex markets where we seek out diamonds in the rough. As a nimble, growing organization, we actively pursue new opportunities with corporate financing know-how, respond to local market demands, and adapt to changing external environments.
More Good Reasons to Work for Par Pacific
Unique Culture and RICH Values
There is nothing ordinary about Par Pacific -- a niche player in the energy space. And there's certainly nothing ordinary about Par Pacific employees. We are driven, hardworking, entrepreneurial-minded professionals who love to win. Our RICH values describe how we approach our work: Respect for Others, Integrity, Collaborative Innovation, and Heart. If that describes you, you'll fit right in.
Location, Location, Location
Because Par Pacific operates in some of the most beautiful places throughout the country, our employees get to make these places their home and enrich their lives.
You will work in Newcastle, the county seat of Weston County, which offers the neighborly culture you would expect in a small town. We are proud of our great schools, low cost of living. The downtown historic district is listed with the National Registry of Historic Places, and it helps preserve the Western culture that residents love.
Opportunistic Growth Strategy
At Par Pacific, we look for operations with strong fundamentals and great employees who can move a business forward. Our management team has deep experience in the energy industry, as well as in leading mergers, acquisitions, and integrations of newly acquired companies.
Focused on the Future
We are an energy company that has recognized the imperative and embraced the opportunity to begin the transition from fossil fuels. We are developing products that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Excellent Compensation and Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a strong comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a robust allotment of paid time off, a 401(k) with company match, retirement savings plans, educational reimbursement, and more. Full-time employees (and their families) are offered medical (with prescription coverage), dental, vision, voluntary critical illness, accident, life/AD&D insurance, Flexible Spending Account and Employee Assistance Program. Employees can purchase company stock at discounted prices through the Employee Stock Purchase Program.
Our Headquarters
Par Pacific Holdings, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, owns, manages and maintains interests in energy and infrastructure businesses. We are a growing energy company focused on renewable and conventional fuels in the Western United States. Par Pacific also owns 46% of Laramie Energy, LLC, a natural gas production company with operations and assets concentrated in Western Colorado. Our common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the trading symbol "PARR".
Our Refineries and Logistics Operations
We own and operate refineries in Hawaii, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming, with total operating throughput capacity of over 219 Mbpd. Par Pacific owns and operates one of the largest energy networks in Hawaii with 94,000 bpd of operating refining capacity, a logistics system supplying the major islands of the state and 90 retail locations. In the Pacific Northwest and the Rockies, Par Pacific owns and operates 125,000 bpd of combined refining capacity and related multimodal logistics systems.
Our Retail Operations
We own and operate over 90 retail locations in Hawaii under the Hele and 76 brands and over 30 retail locations in Washington and Idaho under the nomnom brand.
Par Pacific Is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Par Pacific prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status,genetic information or any other status protected by applicable law.
Note: Par Pacific will not accept calls or unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters. All candidates are required to apply through this web posting.