P&ID
P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagram) is like a detailed map or blueprint that shows how equipment, pipes, and control instruments are connected in industrial facilities such as chemical plants or oil refineries. Think of it as similar to a very detailed road map, but instead of showing streets and buildings, it shows how liquids and gases flow through a facility. Engineers and operators use these diagrams to understand how the plant works, maintain safety, and troubleshoot problems. When you see this term in a resume, it usually means the person knows how to read, create, or work with these important industrial drawings.
Examples in Resumes
Created and updated P&ID drawings for a new chemical processing unit
Reviewed and validated P&ID documentation for safety compliance
Led team in developing P&IDs for plant expansion project
Experience interpreting Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams for maintenance planning
Typical job title: "Process Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Process Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure P&IDs are compliant with safety standards?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain the review process, mention industry standards like ISO or ANSI, and discuss how they coordinate with safety teams and operators to verify all safety systems are properly documented.
Q: How do you manage P&ID updates during a major plant modification?
Expected Answer: They should discuss change management procedures, how to coordinate with different departments, tracking revisions, and ensuring all stakeholders are informed of changes.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What information do you check when reviewing a P&ID?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking equipment tags, line sizes, flow directions, valve types, and instrument connections. Should also mention comparing with actual plant layout.
Q: How do you use P&IDs in troubleshooting plant issues?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they trace process flows, identify relevant equipment and instruments, and use the diagram to plan maintenance or repairs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic elements shown in a P&ID?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify common symbols for pumps, valves, pipes, and basic instruments. Should understand how to read flow direction and basic equipment connections.
Q: Why are P&IDs important in a processing plant?
Expected Answer: Should explain that P&IDs help understand how the plant works, are used for safety planning, maintenance, and training new operators.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic P&ID reading and interpretation
- Understanding of common symbols and notations
- Basic knowledge of process equipment
- Familiar with CAD software
Mid (2-5 years)
- P&ID creation and modification
- Equipment and line sizing
- Safety system documentation
- Project coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex system design review
- Safety compliance verification
- Project management
- Team leadership and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to read basic P&ID symbols
- No experience with industry standard CAD software
- Lack of knowledge about safety standards
- No understanding of process flow principles
Related Terms
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