We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) to join our structural steel fabrication team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring that all welding and fabrication activities comply with project specifications, AWS standards, AISC requirements, and customer quality expectations. This role plays a critical part in maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance throughout the manufacturing process.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform visual inspections of structural steel fabrication and welding operations.
- Verify compliance with AWS D1.1, project specifications, WPS/PQRs, and applicable codes.
- Review fabrication drawings, shop drawings, weld symbols, and engineering specifications.
- Inspect fit-up, joint preparation, welding processes, and completed welds.
- Verify welder qualifications and maintain welding qualification records.
- Coordinate and monitor non-destructive testing (NDT) activities including UT, MT, PT, and RT when required.
- Document inspection results and prepare detailed quality reports.
- Identify non-conforming products and initiate corrective/preventive actions.
- Work closely with production, engineering, and project management teams to resolve quality issues.
- Ensure dimensional inspections meet customer and fabrication tolerances.
- Conduct incoming material inspections and verify mill test reports (MTRs).
- Maintain calibration records for inspection and measuring equipment.
- Participate in internal and external quality audits.
- Promote continuous improvement initiatives within the Quality Management System (QMS).
Required Qualifications
- Current AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification (required).
- High school diploma or GED required; technical degree or related education preferred.
- Minimum 3–5 years of CWI experience in structural steel fabrication.
- Strong knowledge of:
- AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel
- AISC Code of Standard Practice
- Structural steel fabrication and erection processes
- Welding symbols and blueprint reading
- Experience with FCAW, GMAW, SMAW, and SAW welding processes.
- Familiarity with inspection tools including weld gauges, calipers, micrometers, and measuring equipment.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and fabrication details.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in an AISC Certified Fabrication Shop.
- Knowledge of ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.
- Experience coordinating or witnessing NDT inspections.
- Additional certifications such as:
- NACE Coating Inspector
- ASNT Level II (UT, MT, PT)
- ICC Structural Steel and Bolting Inspector
- Experience with ERP or fabrication management software.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, and welding operations.
- Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, and inspect elevated structures.
- Lift up to 50 lbs occasionally.
- Wear required PPE including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe boots.
What You'll Bring
- Strong commitment to quality and safety.
- Excellent organizational and documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments.
- High level of integrity and professionalism.
- Customer-focused mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Pay: $26.52 - $31.93 per hour
Work Location: In person
