The Junior QA/QC Inspector assists in inspecting weld quality and verifying dimensional accuracy of fabricated and installed components in accordance with ABS and NAVSEA standards. The role is ideal for candidates early in their QA/QC careers who seek to develop technical inspection skills within a shipbuilding, retrofit, or defense marine environment.
Weld and Dimensional Verification for Marine Piping and Structural Systems
Support the inspection and documentation of weld visual quality, joint fit-up, and dimensional tolerances for piping systems, structural assemblies, and shipboard installations per ABS/NAVSEA criteria.
Assist in performing visual weld inspections for undercut, porosity, overlap, and other discontinuities.
Verify root pass preparation, tack welds, and joint fit-up prior to welding in accordance with WPS (Welding Procedure Specifications).
Measure and validate fabricated piping runs, penetrations, brackets, and structural components to ensure compliance with dimensional tolerances.
Record inspection results on checklists, weld maps, and QA logs using standardized forms.
Support inspection of materials and traceability documentation (heat numbers, MTRs) for compliance.
Help monitor weld repairs and rework processes for conformance to specifications.
Report non-conformities to senior inspectors or supervisors and participate in root cause analysis activities.
Learn to interpret engineering drawings, NAVSEA fabrication specs, and ABS class requirements.
Follow all safety procedures during inspections in confined spaces, elevated platforms, and onboard environments.
Maintain calibrated tools and inspection instruments such as fillet weld gauges, rulers, and levels.
Technical diploma, trade school certification, or coursework in Welding, Quality Control, Marine Engineering, or related discipline.
0–2 years of QA/QC or welding experience in a shipyard, fabrication shop, or similar industrial setting.
Familiarity with basic welding processes (SMAW, GTAW, GMAW) and marine-grade materials.
Exposure to or training in ABS, NAVSEA, AWS D1.1, or ASME standards preferred.
Ability to read and interpret basic technical drawings and layout diagrams.
Basic understanding of quality documentation practices and inspection tools.
Desire to develop skills in marine QA/QC inspections.
Good attention to detail, documentation, and process discipline.
Comfortable working in shipboard environments (tight spaces, varying temperatures).
Willingness to pursue certifications (e.g., AWS-CWI, NDT Level I/II) as part of career development.