How to Become a Gas Inspector

Gas inspectors investigate potential mechanical or human generated problems in commercial and residential buildings. Your work as an inspector helps customers stay clear of wasted gas, as well as potential leaks or explosions caused by gas. It is important to understand the mechanics and science of gas before you become a gas inspector.

Things You'll Need

• Civil service exam
• Certification as a gas or pipe fitter (optional)
• Apprenticeship (optional)
• Commercial driver's license
• Vocational college degree or certification

Instructions

1. Study the best way to read gauges, meters and dials by attending a vocational college after high school graduation. You should register for a machine operation track of courses to become familiar with machines you will encounter as a gas inspector. This course of study typically takes 4 semesters for students who work full time.

2. Break into the gas industry by taking jobs as an office worker or a delivery driver while you are attending school. Many inspectors manage to rise through the ranks over a few decades by working hard and training gradually for advanced positions.

3. Place a great deal of effort early in your career toward a certification as a gas or pipe fitter. State agencies in conjunction with labor organizations help regulate workers in the gas industry with a variety of licenses and permits. You need these licenses to begin working as a gas pipe installer and an inspector later in your career.

4. Consult with an experienced gas inspector to complete your initial apprenticeship period. Most states require gas inspectors to go through a multi-year apprenticeship process so they can slowly build their knowledge of the industry before they are sent out into the field. You should look for a gas inspector who has trained other inspectors to maximize your entry-level experience.

5. Obtain your commercial driver's license (CDL) before you become a gas inspector. Gas inspectors typically drive pickup trucks to testing sites. You may need to use a larger truck or a specialized vehicle, like a bucket truck, to test gas leaks at high levels inaccessible from indoors.

6. Learn the importance of recording and archiving methods as you rise to the rank of gas inspector. You need to document potential issues in commercial or residential gas use to alert customers and your employer in a timely manner. You should become familiar with portable computers and online forms to make your job experience more efficient.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your state's civil service examination early in your career to open up options at the state level. State energy agencies use gas inspectors to perform random tests on gas lines along with routine trips to power plants to determine compliance. Your civil service exam score determines where you fit on the state pay scale.