QA/QC Engineer – Weld Inspections and Surface Finish

The Senior QA/QC Engineer – Weld Inspections and Surface Finish is a technical leader responsible for overseeing and executing advanced inspection activities related to welded fabrications and surface finishes for high-precision or sanitary mechanical systems. This role ensures strict adherence to industry codes, customer specifications, and internal standards, while mentoring junior engineers and leading quality improvement initiatives.

This position is suited for experienced QA/QC professionals with a deep understanding of welding inspection techniques, sanitary and aesthetic surface requirements, and compliance with ASME, AWS, and 3-A standards.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Weld Quality Assurance and Code Compliance (ASME, AWS, ISO)

2. Surface Finish Inspection and Sanitary Design Validation

3. NCR Management, Root Cause Analysis, and CAPA Implementation

4. Internal/External Audits, Client Witnessing, and Documentation Leadership

5. Mentorship and Continuous Improvement in Quality Processes

Key Responsibilities:

1. Weld Inspection and Compliance

• Lead and conduct visual, dimensional, and documentation inspections of welds in accordance with ASME Section IX, AWS D1.1/D1.6, and customer-specific standards.

• Verify welder qualifications, WPS/PQR usage, and inspect fabrication processes for adherence to quality plans.

• Oversee and interpret results of NDT (e.g., PT, RT, UT) when required, coordinating with certified inspectors.

2. Surface Finish and Sanitary Compliance

• Conduct high-level inspections of surface finishes for compliance with specified Ra values, uniformity, and cleanliness—particularly in sanitary and food-grade applications.

• Validate polishing, passivation, and electropolishing processes using industry best practices and tools (profilometers, borescopes, etc.).

• Provide final release for surface-finish critical equipment (e.g., pharmaceutical tanks, CIP skids, hygienic process lines).

3. Quality System Oversight

• Lead creation and approval of Inspection Test Plans (ITPs), Weld Maps, and Manufacturing Data Records (MDRs).

• Drive investigation of non-conformances and lead root cause analysis sessions across cross-functional teams.

• Ensure timely implementation and verification of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).

4. Audit and Client Engagement

• Lead internal QA audits and readiness for third-party or client inspections.

• Represent the QA function during client witness points, FATs, and compliance reviews.

• Support supplier audits and vendor qualification activities related to welding and surface treatments.

5. Mentorship and Technical Leadership

• Mentor junior QA/QC staff and inspectors, ensuring consistent understanding and application of codes and standards.

• Review and improve QA/QC procedures, inspection documentation, and checklists.

• Propose and lead quality improvement initiatives across fabrication, welding, and surface finishing operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Welding Engineering, or a related technical field.

• 7+ years of experience in QA/QC with a strong emphasis on welding and surface finish inspection.

• Advanced knowledge of ASME (Section VIII, IX), AWS (D1.1/D1.6), 3-A, and BPE standards.

• Experience working in high-spec environments (e.g., pharmaceutical, biotech, food & beverage, semiconductor fabrication).

Certifications (Preferred):

• AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) – Required or strongly preferred.

• ASNT Level II (PT, VT, or other applicable NDE methods).

• Six Sigma, ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor (desirable).

Core Competencies:

• Welding and surface finish inspection expertise

• Leadership and mentorship

• Technical report writing and documentation

• Root cause analysis and quality systems management

• Clear communication with clients, vendors, and cross-functional teams