The Senior QA/QC Inspector is a technical authority responsible for leading and executing complex weld and dimensional inspections across shipboard systems in accordance with ABS, NAVSEA, and project-specific standards. This role ensures fabrication and installation quality meets regulatory, classification society, and customer requirements. The position involves mentorship, inspection coordination, and direct engagement with third-party surveyors and internal stakeholders.
High-Precision Weld Inspection and Dimensional Control of Marine Pipe and Structural Systems per ABS/NAVSEA
Oversee and verify critical weld quality and dimensional accuracy of complex systems such as high-pressure piping, hull structures, and equipment foundations in naval and commercial marine environments.
Lead visual and dimensional inspections of welds, fit-ups, joint preparations, and final assemblies for structural and piping systems.
Interpret and apply WPS, PQR, and WPQ documents to ensure proper procedure adherence during fabrication and installation.
Verify as-built conditions against drawings, tolerance specifications, and classification requirements (ABS, NAVSEA, AWS, ASME).
Oversee hydrostatic and pneumatic testing preparations and witness pressure tests for QA compliance.
Coordinate with welders, foremen, engineers, and class representatives to resolve discrepancies and close inspection points.
Review and approve inspection documentation, including weld maps, inspection reports, NDT records, and nonconformance reports (NCRs).
Lead root cause analysis for weld defects or dimensional nonconformities and support corrective/preventive action planning.
Mentor junior and mid-level inspectors in proper inspection techniques, documentation, and standards interpretation.
Interface with classification society surveyors, NAVSEA inspectors, and customer QA personnel during audits and hold-point inspections.
Maintain compliance with safety policies, confined space protocols, and hot work procedures during all inspection activities.
Technical diploma or degree in Welding, Mechanical Engineering, Marine Fabrication, or a related discipline.
6+ years of marine or shipyard QA/QC inspection experience, with strong emphasis on ABS and NAVSEA compliance.
AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) required or equivalent qualification.
Working knowledge of NAVSEA Tech Pubs, MIL-STD-1689, MIL-STD-2035, AWS D1.1/D1.6, ASME B31.1/B31.3.
Strong command of dimensional inspection tools and weld gauging instruments.
Proficiency in interpreting detailed fabrication drawings, ISO drawings, and tolerance callouts (GD&T preferred).
NDT Level II certifications in VT, PT, MT, or UT highly desirable.
Prior experience with U.S. Navy ship programs or defense marine vessels.
Strong leadership, problem-solving, and mentoring capabilities.
Familiarity with digital QA/QC reporting systems and document control platforms.
Ability to work under pressure and meet inspection deadlines in fast-paced shipyard environments.