Certified Weld Inspector

• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
• Job Title: Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
• Department: Quality / QA-QC
• Reports To: Quality Manager / QC Supervisor (or designated manager)
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt or Exempt (based on pay structure and duties)
• Location: (Facility/City, State)
• Schedule: (1st shift / 2nd shift / as needed for production)
• Position Summary

The Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is responsible for verifying that welded fabrication meets applicable codes, customer requirements, and internal quality standards. This role performs in-process and final inspections, reviews welding documentation (WPS/PQR/WPQ), monitors welder performance and compliance, and works closely with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams to prevent defects and support continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspection & Quality Verification
• Perform visual inspection of welds and welded assemblies in accordance with applicable codes/standards (e.g., AWS D1.1, AISC, ASME as applicable) and company/customer requirements.
• Verify joint fit-up, preparation, welding variables, and workmanship prior to, during, and after welding.
• Confirm correct consumables, base materials, and weld symbols are being used per drawings, WPS, and BOM requirements.
• Conduct dimensional and general fabrication inspections (as required) to ensure conformance to drawings and tolerances.
• Identify nonconformances, document defects, and communicate required repairs to Production and supervision.
• Documentation & Reporting
• Review, maintain, and complete inspection documentation: weld inspection reports, hold point sign-offs, receiving inspection records, and final release documentation.
• Verify and maintain traceability records for materials and welding (heat numbers, MTRs, consumables, etc.) when required by project specifications.
• Support creation and maintenance of quality records for customer submittals and job closeout packages.
• Assist with Nonconformance Reports (NCRs), corrective actions, and root cause investigations.
• Welding Program Support
• Review and support implementation of Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and ensure welders follow them.
• Support welder qualification testing and maintain welder continuity logs and certification records.
• Coordinate or support NDT activities (VT, MT, PT, UT, RT) with internal or third-party technicians as required; review results and ensure disposition is documented.
• Participate in pre-job meetings and clarify inspection requirements with project teams.
• Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
• Work with Production/Shop leadership to prevent rework by catching issues early and providing clear feedback.
• Assist with internal audits, customer audits, and third-party inspections.
• Recommend process improvements related to welding quality, workmanship, training, and documentation control.
• Promote a safety-first mindset and comply with all facility safety policies.
• Required Qualifications
• Current AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification (AWS QC1).
• Strong knowledge of welding processes (GMAW, FCAW, SMAW, SAW, etc.) relevant to the shop’s work.
• Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings, weld symbols (AWS A2.4), specifications, and inspection criteria.
• Working knowledge of applicable codes/standards (commonly AWS D1.1 for structural steel; others as applicable).
• Proficient in measuring tools and inspection equipment (tape measure, calipers, fillet gauges, levels, squares, etc.).
• Strong documentation skills and ability to produce clear, accurate inspection records.
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, PDF markup, quality forms, or ERP systems).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in structural steel fabrication and AISC-related work (including familiarity with AISC certification expectations, if applicable).
• Experience with customer/third-party inspections and turnover packages.
• NDT experience or Level II certifications (MT/PT/UT/RT) are a plus (not required unless specified).
• Familiarity with ISO 9001-style quality systems and document control.
• Physical & Work Environment Requirements
• Ability to work in a fabrication/shop environment with exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying temperatures.
• Must be able to stand/walk for extended periods and access work areas (ladders, platforms, lifts as required and trained).
• Ability to lift up to (e.g., 50 lbs) occasionally and use PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe boots, etc.).
• Visual acuity sufficient to perform detailed weld inspections (with corrective lenses if needed).
• Competencies
• High attention to detail and strong commitment to quality.
• Professional communication and ability to work effectively with production teams without disrupting workflow.
• Sound judgment, integrity, and ability to enforce standards consistently.
• Organized, self-directed, and able to manage multiple jobs/priorities.