April 30, 2025 •AMPP
Every day, corrosion professionals play a crucial role in protecting people and assets. They use their expertise to prevent catastrophic failures and safeguard the structural integrity of bridges, pipelines, and critical infrastructure. Why is this so important? The combination of aging infrastructure and a global increase in industrial growth means the world needs more corrosion professionals.
Corrosion careers offer stability, professional growth, and high demand across many industries. From hands-on fieldwork to engineering solutions, or research and development, there’s a career path for many skill levels and interests. Whether you're passionate about energy, transportation, defense, or water systems, every sector depends on the work of corrosion professionals. Here are five in-demand corrosion careers and how to get started in each role.
1. Coatings Inspector
Coatings inspectors are on the first line of defense. They ensure the protective coatings applied to structures like pipelines, bridges, and storage tanks meet industry standards. This work is critical for preventing corrosion and structural failures.
➡ In industries like marine, pipeline, energy transmission, and transportation, coatings inspectors protect assets against harsh environments and ensure compliance with evolving safety regulations, making this corrosion career vital to public safety and infrastructure longevity.
Responsibilities:
- Inspect surface preparation and coating applications for compliance.
- Perform tests to evaluate adhesion, thickness, and environmental conditions.
- Document findings and provide recommendations for coating improvements.
How to get started:
- A formal degree isn’t required, but coatings inspectors must understand coatings application processes and quality control.
- The AMPP Coatings Inspector Program (CIP) is the industry standard for professional inspectors.
2. Industrial Painters/ Coatings Applicators
Industrial Painters are the hands behind the protection. They apply specialized coatings to steel, concrete, and other surfaces in harsh environments, helping prevent rust, wear, and chemical damage. Their work is critical to the longevity and safety of infrastructure in industries like marine, oil and gas, water, and transportation.
➡ Industrial Painters ensure proper surface preparation and precise coating application, directly impacting the durability of tanks, pipelines, bridges, and other assets. Their expertise helps avoid costly rework and extends the life of vital structures.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare surfaces using blasting, grinding, or cleaning methods.
- Mix and apply industrial coatings using brushes, rollers, or spray equipment.
- Inspect work for coverage, thickness, and quality standards.
How to get started:
- Hands-on training or apprenticeships are common entry paths.
- AMPP Coating Application Specialist® (CAS) Program certifies applicators to industry standards and helps build a career in protective coatings.
3. Cathodic Protection Technician
Cathodic protection (CP) technicians specialize in electrochemical methods to control corrosion, particularly in underground pipelines, marine structures, and reinforced concrete. They play a vital role in preventing corrosion-related failures in mission-critical infrastructure.
➡ This corrosion career is especially crucial in municipal water systems, transportation, and energy sectors, where buried or submerged structures are vulnerable to hidden damage.
Responsibilities:
- Install, design, test, and maintain cathodic protection systems.
- Conduct field surveys and adjust CP systems for optimal performance.
- Troubleshoot issues related to corrosion control in pipelines and tanks.
How to get started:
- Training in electrical engineering, corrosion technology, or materials science is helpful.
- AMPP Cathodic Protection Technician and CP Tester certifications establish your technical expertise in the field.
4. Corrosion Technician
Corrosion technicians work closely with engineers and inspectors to perform testing, monitoring, and maintenance of corrosion prevention systems. This role is ideal for people who enjoy hands-on work in industrial environments. Technicians perform tests on materials, collect and interpret data, and ensure testing is accurately completed.
➡ You’ll find corrosion technicians in manufacturing, nuclear energy, and renewables, supporting both traditional and emerging sectors with practical expertise. This is a corrosion career with opportunities for long-term growth and specialization.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct corrosion surveys and collect field data.
- Assist in applying protective coatings and cathodic protection systems.
- Perform laboratory and on-site material testing.
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How to get started:
- Most corrosion technicians begin with on-the-job training or technical education in corrosion science.
- The AMPP Corrosion Technician Certification validates your expertise in this field.
5. Internal Corrosion Technologist
Internal Corrosion Technologists protect assets from the inside out. They monitor and mitigate corrosion within pipelines, vessels, and other closed systems that carry water, oil, gas, or chemicals. Their expertise helps prevent failures resulting in safety risks, environmental damage, or costly downtime.
➡ In industries like energy, midstream transportation, and water treatment, Internal Corrosion Technologists are essential for identifying corrosion threats and implementing prevention strategies, making this a critical role in ensuring safe and sustainable operations.
Responsibilities:
- Analyze fluid properties and materials to assess corrosion risk.
- Develop and implement internal corrosion monitoring programs.
- Recommend chemical treatments, coatings, or design changes to reduce corrosion.
How to get started:
- A technical background in chemistry, materials, or engineering is helpful but not required.
- The AMPP Internal Corrosion Technologist Certification provides in-depth training for evaluating and managing corrosion within internal systems.
Why choose a career in corrosion prevention?
Infrastructure investments are increasing worldwide, and corrosion professionals are key players in keeping assets safe. Whether interested in fieldwork, engineering, or laboratory research, corrosion careers offer stable, impactful professional opportunities across verticals like oil & gas, transportation, aerospace, utilities, and more.
AMPP offers industry-leading certifications and training to help you advance your career. From new graduates to longtime professionals looking to specialize, AMPP provides the technical knowledge, hands-on training, and professional network you need to succeed.
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