For several months now, Rommert (34) has been working as a Project Engineer Tanks at Liquin’s TTR Terminal. A role where planning, calculations and time spent in the field come together. “What I like most is that no two tanks are the same. That keeps the work challenging.”
From construction to tank storage
Rommert started his career in construction engineering, but via an engineering consultancy he found his way into the world of tank storage. “After graduating, the construction industry was struggling. Through an engineering firm focused on refineries, I entered this sector. I first worked as a Project Engineer at Vopak, and now I’m here at Liquin.” The transition has been a positive one. “I was deliberately looking for a role where you’re not behind a desk all day. Here, you work both indoors and outdoors, and that balance really suits me.”
Planned maintenance, prepared down to the last detail
As a Project Engineer Tanks, Rommert is responsible for the planned major maintenance of storage tanks at the TTR Terminal. “Each tank is taken out of service every few years for major maintenance. We plan this well in advance. We typically look three years ahead, with the first year planned in great detail.” Rommert currently manages around seven tanks.
“That may sound manageable, but every tank is unique. The stored product, the coating, or the condition in which the tank was left last time, all of that makes each scope different.”
Defining scopes and managing budgets
Preparation is a key part of the role. “It all starts with defining a solid scope: what needs to be done, and just as importantly, what doesn’t.” Those decisions matter. “Maintenance is expensive. You don’t want to miss anything, because that will cost you later. But doing too much isn’t good either. It’s always a balancing act.” Based on the scope, Rommert works with contractors to develop budgets and schedules. “I request quotations, compare them and submit everything internally for approval. Managing expectations is crucial in this process.”
Close collaboration with contractors and colleagues
Rommert works closely with a group of regular contractors. “You sometimes see them more often than your own colleagues. We really depend on each other, so open and honest communication is essential.” Internally, collaboration is equally strong. “We work in a dedicated tank team with engineers, supervisors and a construction coordinator. We have weekly meetings, and because multiple disciplines work in the same office, it’s easy to quickly check something or ask a question.”
Seeing things in the field makes the difference
Although much of the work is planned and desk-based, Rommert regularly visits the terminal. “About 20% of my time is spent outside, and that’s important. Sometimes you come up with a great idea behind your desk, but once you’re outside, you realize the situation is slightly different. That’s when you immediately see what will or won’t work.” He also stays involved during execution. “I’m responsible for the budget and the schedule, so it’s important to understand what’s actually happening on site.”
Safety starts with preparation
Safety plays a central role in Rommert’s work. “It starts at the scope stage. We don’t design anything that cannot be executed safely. That means reducing work at height, thinking of smart solutions and identifying risks upfront.” Supervisors and safety advisors are closely involved as well. “They review everything critically and sometimes come up with even better ideas. That really sharpens your work.” After completion, an independent inspection determines how long the tank can safely remain in operation. “Usually that’s between 15 and 20 years.”
What makes the job enjoyable
What Rommert enjoys most is the variety.
“You’re never working on just one phase. One tank is in preparation, another is under maintenance, and the next one is coming up. That keeps every day different.”
And then there’s the moment when a tank is opened. “That’s always exciting. Sometimes the condition is better than expected, sometimes worse. When everything stays within planning and budget, that’s incredibly satisfying.”
Structure, communication and patience
According to Rommert, a good Project Engineer Tanks needs several key qualities. “Strong planning skills, attention to detail, patience, and above all, the ability to collaborate and communicate well. You work with many different parties at the same time.” Structure helps. “We rely heavily on checklists. That might sound excessive, but it creates clarity and peace of mind—you know you haven’t missed anything.”
A well-structured workweek
Rommert works Monday to Friday and usually starts around 7:00 a.m. “You have a lot of freedom to organize your own day, which is great. The work is well planned, and I’m hardly ever called in the evenings or on weekends.” Working from home one day a week is also an option. “If I know I don’t need to be outside, that works perfectly.”
