AWS Certified Welding Inspector

Responsibilities

• Welding Inspection
• Perform visual welding inspection (VT) of fit-up, in-process, and final welds per AWS, ASME, API, and/or project specifications.
• Verify welder/welding operator qualifications, WPSs, PQRs, and continuity records before production welding.
• Confirm base metal, filler metal, preheat, interpass temperature, joint preparation, and welding parameters against approved procedures.
• Inspect structural, process piping, mechanical, and equipment welds as assigned (shop and/or field).
• ID, document, and track nonconformances; support root-cause and corrective action through closeout.
• Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) Type II, Method C (solvent-removable)
• Perform and/or oversee PT Type II, Method C (solvent-removable) examinations in accordance with applicable codes (e.g., ASME Section V, AWS D1.1/D1.6, ASTM E165) and project NDE procedures.
• Select and apply penetrant materials, dwell times, solvent cleaning/removal, and developer techniques appropriate to material and geometry.
• Interpret indications, distinguish relevant vs. nonrelevant indications, and document accept/reject results.
• Maintain PT materials control, batch/lot traceability, and process checks as required by procedure.
• Clock with Level II/III NDE personnel and third-party labs when additional methods (MT, UT, RT) are required.

Qualifications

• AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) — active, in good standing.
• Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) Type II, Method C (solvent-removable) endorsement/qualification — active (e.g., ASNT SNT-TC-1A, CP-189, NAS-410, or employer written practice equivalent as required by project).
• Handson experience inspecting structural and/or piping welds in industrial, commercial, or infrastructure construction.
• Working knowledge of common welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) and weld defect morphology.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret isometric drawings, P&IDs, structural details, WPSs, and code acceptance criteria.
• Demonstrated ability to write clear inspection/NDE reports and maintain traceable quality records.
• Strong understanding of hold points, ITPs, and turnover documentation requirements.
• Accurate visual acuity (with or without corrective lenses) meeting code/employer requirements for VT/PT.
• Clear written and verbal communication with craft, supervision, engineering, and owners.
• Detail- oriented, and able to manage multiple inspection packages under schedule pressure.
• Proficient with standard office tools (email, Excel/Word, PDF markups); quality software experience a plus.