SWD Construction Inspector

Location: Watford City, ND
Industry: Oil & Gas Midstream / SWD Facilities
Short Term Project

Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Construction Inspector to oversee the construction of oilfield infrastructure and SWD (Saltwater Disposal) facilities in North Dakota. This individual will act as the owner's representative in the field, ensuring construction activities are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications and quality standards.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with SWD facility construction, pipeline tie-ins, polyethylene (HDPE) piping installation, tank construction, welding activities, and daily coordination of multiple contractors. Strong material management and planning skills are critical to prevent costly project delays and downtime.

Responsibilities

• Monitor daily construction activities for SWD facility and pipeline projects.
• Serve as the primary field representative between contractors, vendors, and project management.
• Oversee pipeline installation activities, including tie-ins and associated facility construction.
• Monitor HDPE/polyethylene piping installation and ensure adherence to project specifications.
• Observe steel welding and radiographic testing (X-ray) activities and verify work is being completed to required standards.
• Coordinate with third-party inspectors responsible for welding, NDT, and quality assurance activities.
• Inspect contractor workmanship and verify construction aligns with approved drawings and specifications.
• Oversee installation of bolted storage tanks, oil skimming systems, and associated production equipment.
• Review daily reports, construction progress, schedules, and field documentation.
• Identify and communicate potential construction, safety, or quality concerns before they impact project execution.
• Coordinate equipment deliveries and material staging activities.
• Maintain accurate records of project progress, contractor performance, and field observations.
• Work closely with project managers to track schedule milestones and construction progress.
• Participate in safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture across all contractors on site.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of construction inspection or field supervision experience within the oil & gas industry.
• Previous experience supporting SWD facility construction projects.
• Experience with pipeline construction and tie-in activities.
• Working knowledge of HDPE/polyethylene pipe installation and construction practices.
• Familiarity with steel pipeline and facility welding operations.
• Ability to recognize acceptable welding practices and identify potential quality concerns.
• Experience coordinating with third-party welding inspectors and NDT providers.
• Strong understanding of oilfield facility construction methods and equipment installation.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, P&IDs, isometrics, and project specifications.
• Strong communication and contractor management skills.
• Proficient with daily reporting and construction documentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with bolted storage tank installation (3,000-barrel or similar capacity).
• Experience with oil recovery, separation, skimming, or fluid handling equipment.
• Prior experience serving as an owner's representative on oilfield construction projects.
• Knowledge of North Dakota oilfield construction practices and regulatory requirements.
• OSHA 10, OSHA 30, or equivalent safety training.

Key Success Factors

• Strong field presence and ability to hold contractors accountable.
• Excellent material planning and procurement coordination skills.
• Ability to identify missing materials before they create schedule delays.
• Strong organizational and communication abilities.
• Proactive problem-solving mindset with a focus on project execution and efficiency.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.