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