1

Petrochemical Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associates degree in Engineering or Technology * 10+ years of petroleum or petrochemical inspection experience or equivalent combination of education and experiences * Welding experience COMPETENCIES:

Associates degree in Engineering or Technology * 10+ years of petroleum or petrochemical inspection experience or equivalent combination of education and experiences * Welding experience COMPETENCIES:

next page

Showing results 1-20

Petrochemical Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do petrochemical inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for petrochemical inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Petrochemical Inspectors face when working on-site at refineries or plants?

Petrochemical Inspectors often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict safety protocols in hazardous environments, managing time effectively to complete detailed inspections under tight deadlines, and staying updated with evolving industry regulations. They must also communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical team members, which requires strong interpersonal skills. Additionally, inspectors frequently work irregular hours or in adverse weather conditions, making adaptability and resilience important traits for success in this role.

What is the difference between Petrochemical Inspector vs Chemical Plant Inspector?

AspectPetrochemical InspectorChemical Plant Inspector
CertificationsAPI certifications, safety trainingAPI certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentRefineries, petrochemical plantsChemical manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageOil & gas, petrochemical industryChemical manufacturing sector
Job FocusInspecting petrochemical processes and equipmentInspecting chemical production processes and safety

Both roles involve inspecting industrial equipment and ensuring safety standards, but Petrochemical Inspectors focus specifically on petrochemical plants and processes related to oil and gas derivatives, while Chemical Plant Inspectors oversee chemical manufacturing facilities across various industries. The certifications, work environments, and industry usage overlap significantly, making them closely related roles with distinct industry focuses.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Petrochemical inspectors typically do not get paid per inspection but earn an hourly or salary wage, which can range from $20 to $40 per hour depending on experience, location, and certifications. Their pay is often supplemented by overtime, hazard pay, or per diem for on-site work in industrial environments.

How to become a petroleum inspector?

To become a petroleum inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in petroleum safety, inspection procedures, and industry standards. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in the oil and gas industry, and obtaining certifications such as API (American Petroleum Institute) certifications can enhance job prospects.

What kind of inspector gets paid the most?

In the petrochemical industry, senior or specialized inspectors such as corrosion, nondestructive testing (NDT), or quality assurance inspectors tend to earn higher salaries due to their advanced skills and certifications. Experience, certifications like API or ASNT, and working in high-risk or complex facilities can also increase earning potential for petrochemical inspectors.

What does a Petrochemical Inspector do?

A Petrochemical Inspector is responsible for examining and evaluating the quality and quantity of petrochemical products during production, storage, and shipment. They ensure that products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical feedstocks meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. Their duties often include sampling, testing, and reporting on product specifications, as well as overseeing loading and unloading processes. Petrochemical Inspectors play a key role in maintaining safety and compliance within the petrochemical industry.

What is a petrochemical inspector?

A petrochemical inspector is a professional responsible for examining and ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of equipment, facilities, and processes in petrochemical plants. They typically perform inspections, use testing tools, and verify adherence to industry standards and regulations, often requiring certifications such as API or ASNT. Their work environment involves industrial settings with strict safety protocols and scheduled inspections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Petrochemical Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Petrochemical Inspector, you need a strong understanding of chemical processes, safety regulations, and quality assurance, often supported by a degree in chemistry or engineering and relevant industry certifications. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory equipment, and digital reporting systems is typically required for accurate and efficient evaluations. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with plant staff. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and high-quality operations in complex petrochemical environments.
More about Petrochemical Inspector jobs
What job categories do people searching Petrochemical Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Petrochemical Inspector jobs are:
Infographic showing various Petrochemical Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

PURPOSE:

The purpose and role of the Inspector is to ensure all fixed equipment is constructed and maintained to all applicable codes, standards, specification and regulatory requirements.

KEY OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Adhere to and participate in all local and corporate safety procedures, safe work practices, policies, initiatives including the ability to stop work when unsafe
  • Ensure that all fixed equipment is suitable for safe operation at the design conditions through the necessary technical inspections
  • Assist in developing Inspection Test Plans that are highly effective and capable of detecting damage mechanisms and so that results can be utilized in RBI Analysis
  • Direct and/or perform API Inspections, and mechanical inspections as required by professional and governmental agencies
  • Perform limited NDE Inspections to include PT, MT, VT and UTT
  • Develop repair recommendations and plans in support of routine maintenance on piping and pressure equipment as well as atmospheric storage tanks in accordance to codes to ensure minimal unscheduled downtime.
  • Ensure that each piece of fixed equipment receives the highest degree of inspection and that all repairs and new construction meet all applicable codes, standards and specifications for safe and designated performance.
  • Analyze thickness data in UltraPipe and RBI data in support of Calumet maintenance requirements for both turnarounds and routine maintenance
  • Maintain required reporting and inspection metrics/KPI’s and inspection documentation and records
  • Responsible for creating and tracking work orders and notifications in company business system and planning inspection outages or major repair work
  • Ability to work with other in a team environment
  • Supervise contract inspections and test services
  • Maintain personal and company goals regarding safety and volunteerism
  • Must be able to work extended hours during turnarounds and equipment repairs

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCES:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must possess API 510, 570, 653 and either AWS-CWI or Level II Visual Testing certifications
  • Ability to climb to high levels and enter small confined areas for extended periods of time
  • Ability to interpret and read P&IDs, piping ISO drawing and design drawings

PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCES:

  • Associates degree in Engineering or Technology
  • 10+ years of petroleum or petrochemical inspection experience or equivalent combination of education and experiences
  • Welding experience

COMPETENCIES:

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Excellent computer skills
  • Demonstration of Calumet Values – Safety, Environment & Social Responsibility, Teamwork, Ownership, Passion for Customers, and Excellence