Refinery Inspection Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advanced Inspection Engineer (Drone & 3D Scanning) Location: Houston, TX (Field-Based)

Industry: Oil & Gas / Petrochemical / Industrial Services

This role is particularly well-suited for candidates interested in combining engineering, field operations, and advanced inspection technologies such as drones, LiDAR, and next-generation NDT.

Position Overview: We are seeking a hands-on, technology-driven Advanced Inspection Engineer to join our growing inspection group. This role focuses on leveraging cutting-edge inspection technologies-including drones (UAS), 3D laser scanning, and advanced NDT methods-to evaluate the condition of critical industrial assets. This is an ideal role for engineers who enjoy field work, emerging technologies, and solving real-world problems in challenging industrial environments.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform field inspections using a combination of:

• UAS / drones (visual inspection and photogrammetry)
• 3D laser scanning (LiDAR) Advanced digital capture technologies
• Collect and process field data into 3D models / digital twins Inspection reports and condition asses

Conduct inspections on:

• Piping systems
• Pressure vessels
• Storage tanks
• Structural assets
• Support and eventually execute advanced NDT techniques, including Guided Ultrasonic Testing (GUL) Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers (EMAT) Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) Other emerging inspection technologies
• Assist in developing innovative inspection methodologies combining traditional and advanced techniques
• Interpret data to identify: Corrosion, Wall loss Defects and anomalies
• Prepare and deliver technical reports for clients
• Work closely with operations, engineering, and clients in the field

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Civil Engineering, Industrial Engineering Or related technical field
• Willingness to work in field environments (plants, refineries, outdoor conditions) Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Ability to travel as required
  

Preferred (Nice to Have):

FAA Part 107 Drone License Experience with:

• LiDAR or 3D laser scanning o Photogrammetry / reality capture software
• Exposure to NDT or inspection methods
• Familiarity with industry standards (API, ASME)
• Experience with data processing tools or 3D modeling platforms

What Makes This Role Unique

Work with next-generation inspection technology, not just traditional methods

Blend of engineering + field work + advanced data capture

Opportunity to grow into specialized areas such as: Advanced NDT (GUL, EMAT, PEC) o Digital inspection / reality capture

• Technical leadership in emerging inspection methods

Work Environment

Primarily field-based in industrial facilities

Combination of: Outdoor work o Climbing, confined spaces (as required)

Use of advanced technical equipment and tools

Ideal Candidate Profile

Early-career engineer (0-5 years' experience) Interested in technology + field work Comfortable learning new tools and working in industrial settings Self-driven, adaptable, and curious

Why Join Us

Be part of a team building the future of industrial inspection

Hands-on exposure to cutting-edge technology

Strong growth path in a high-demand, specialized field

Dynamic work environment - not a desk job

Benefits:

• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k) w/matching
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)

*** Apave America Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, and other protected characteristics. ***

We make hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees.