Job Description – Onshore SPM Buoy Inspector

Position: Onshore SPM Buoy Inspector
Reporting To: Project Manager / Lead Engineer
Work Location: Fabrication Yard / Storage Facility / Laydown Area

1. Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Onshore SPM Buoy Inspector to conduct comprehensive inspections and assessments of Single Point Mooring (SPM) buoy systems stored at onshore facilities.

The successful candidate will be responsible for evaluating the physical condition, equipment integrity, identification and supporting technical documentation of the SPM buoy system, determining its overall condition and readiness for subsequent project deployment or operation.

The inspection activities will primarily take place at fabrication yards, storage facilities and laydown areas. This position is strictly onshore, with no offshore or diving responsibilities.

2. Key Responsibilities

A. Inspection Planning and Preparation

• Review relevant inspection work scopes, engineering drawings, design specifications, classification records and operation and maintenance manuals.

• Develop inspection procedures, checklists and risk assessments prior to commencing inspection activities.

• Coordinate site arrangements, including equipment access, lifting arrangements, scaffolding, cleaning, gas-free certification and third-party testing requirements.

• Examine technical documentation, including material certificates, welding and NDT records, load test certificates, classification status, historical maintenance and preservation records.

• Verify equipment identification, manufacturer details, model numbers, serial numbers and markings against available documentation.

• Identify missing, incomplete or inconsistent technical records and assess their implications on the inspection findings.

B. Physical Inspection and Assessment

Conduct detailed visual and dimensional inspections covering the following SPM buoy components and associated equipment:

1. Buoy Hull and Structural Components

• Inspect plating, weld joints, internal compartments, manholes and watertight integrity.

• Assess fendering arrangements, pad eyes and structural connections.

• Identify signs of corrosion, deformation and structural deterioration.

2. Turntable / Turret Assembly

• Examine main bearings, sealing arrangements and associated components.

• Inspect mooring and hawser connection points.

• Assess turntable rotation and operational condition where practicable.

3. Fluid Transfer System

• Inspect product swivels, piping systems, valves, flanges and expansion joints.

• Evaluate seal integrity, equipment condition and preservation status.

4. Mooring System and Anchor Components

• Examine mooring chains, connectors, shackles, chain stoppers, anchors and piles, where applicable.

• Verify equipment identification, dimensions and specifications against relevant certificates.

5. Pipeline End Manifold (PLEM), Where Applicable

• Inspect structural condition, piping arrangements, valves, connectors and pipeline end preparations.

6. Hoses and Associated Equipment

• Assess floating hoses, underbuoy hoses, hawsers and chafe chains.

• Verify equipment age, physical condition, storage arrangements and preservation status.

7. Auxiliary Systems

• Inspect navigation aids, electrical and instrumentation systems, handling equipment, cathodic protection and protective coating systems.

C. Inspection Testing and Verification

• Perform visual and dimensional examinations of equipment and structural components within the inspection scope.

• Conduct ultrasonic thickness measurements, coating thickness assessments and mooring chain link measurements using properly calibrated instruments.

• Inspect internal buoy compartments where access is permitted and appropriate safety requirements are satisfied.

• Evaluate equipment preservation conditions, including environmental exposure, contamination and deterioration of seals or elastomeric components.

• Witness and review NDT activities, pressure tests, functional testing and inspections conducted by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

• Verify the competency and qualifications of inspection contractors and ensure equipment calibration certificates are valid.

• Identify components requiring dismantling or specialist OEM involvement for further verification and recommend the necessary follow-up activities.

D. Inspection Reporting and Recommendations

• Maintain comprehensive inspection records, including identified defects, measurements, equipment locations and photographic evidence.

• Categorise inspection findings according to their severity and potential impact on equipment integrity.

• Provide technical recommendations on equipment acceptance, repair, replacement or further detailed investigation.

• Highlight outstanding inspection items and any components that could not be fully assessed.

• Immediately escalate critical defects and safety-related concerns to the Project Manager.

3. Requirements and Qualifications

Essential Requirements

1. Minimum 10 years of experience in offshore, marine or terminal equipment installation, maintenance or inspection, with at least 5 years of direct experience involving CALM or SPM systems.

2. Proven hands-on experience inspecting SPM buoy systems, including equipment in operational service, undergoing overhaul or maintained in storage.

3. Strong technical understanding of SPM buoy turntables, main bearings, product swivels, mooring chains and marine hose systems.

4. Previous exposure to SPM buoy systems from manufacturers such as SOFEC, Bluewater, IMODCO and SBM.

5. Possession of a recognised inspection qualification, such as CSWIP 3.1, AWS CWI or an equivalent certification.

6. Ability to interpret engineering drawings, material certificates and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) reports.

7. Practical experience operating ultrasonic thickness gauges and coating thickness measurement instruments.

8. Good written and verbal English communication skills. Non-native English speakers should be able to demonstrate suitable English proficiency, with IELTS results where applicable.

9. Must be able to provide previous inspection reports or relevant work samples upon request.

10. Medically fit and capable of undertaking work at height and entering confined spaces where required.

Desirable Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture or a related discipline.

• Previous working experience as a Classification Society Surveyor.

4. Applicable Industry Standards

Candidates should possess working knowledge of the latest applicable editions of the following industry standards and technical guidelines:

• OCIMF – Single Point Mooring Maintenance and Operations Guide (SMOG).

• OCIMF – Guide to Manufacturing and Purchasing Hoses for Offshore Moorings (GMPHOM).

• API RP 2I – In-Service Inspection of Mooring Hardware.

• ABS – Rules for Building and Classing Single Point Moorings.

• DNV-OS-E403 – Offshore Loading and Infrastructure Buoys.

• Bureau Veritas NR494 – Offshore Loading and Offloading Buoys.

About Intermarine UK

We specialise in connecting skilled professionals with projects that are integral to shaping the future. For over two decades, we have been dedicated to supporting strategically vital industries that face increasing skills shortages, assisting individuals in building fulfilling careers across marine, defence, nuclear, offshore energy, and heavy industry. What started as a specialist workforce provider for the defence and marine sectors has evolved into a group of businesses that support the entire lifecycle of complex programmes, all the while remaining committed to creating opportunities for individuals and delivering value to our clients.

We believe that successful careers are founded on strong relationships, open communication, and meaningful work. This is why we adopt a people-first approach to recruitment, taking the time to understand your skills, aspirations, and objectives. By operating with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to quality, we connect talented individuals with opportunities that allow them to make a genuine impact while fostering long-term careers in some of the world's most significant industries.