QA/QC Inspector Apprentice

Position Summary

The QA/QC Inspector Apprentice is an entry-level training position designed to develop the skills and knowledge required to perform quality assurance and quality control inspections in a shipyard and fabrication shops. Under the supervision of experienced QA/QC personnel, the apprentice will learn inspection techniques, quality standards, documentation requirements, and applicable industry codes and specifications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.

• Assist QA/QC Inspectors with inspections of incoming materials, work in process, and finished products
• Learn proper inspection techniques, measurements methods, and documentation procedures
• Assist with preparation of inspection reports, sketches, and quality records
• Participate in on-the-job training and company-sponsored quality records
• Learn applicable customer specifications, industry codes, and company procedures
• Maintain inspection tools, equipment, and records under supervision
• Observe and participate in customer and third-party inspections as assigned
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements
• Ability to work as a team member with multiple departments, clients, and contractors

Required Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED
• Previous experience in a shipyard, fabrication shop, construction, manufacturing, welding, fitting, or industrial environment is preferred but not required
• Must demonstrate willingness to learn inspection methods, quality procedures, and applicable industry standards
• Ability to perform field and shop inspections under supervision and guidance

Working Conditions

• Work in shipyards, fabrication shops, dry docks, and aboard vessels under construction or repair
• Perform work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walk and work on uneven surfaces, grating, ladders, scaffolding, and gangways
• Climb ladders, scaffolding, and structures up to 52 feet in height
• Access confined spaces, tanks, voids, and other restricted areas as required
• Work at elevated heights while performing inspections
• Be exposed to noise, dust, welding fumes, paint fumes, and other industrial environments
• Stand, walk, bend, stoop, climb, and lift for extended periods
• Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
• Adhere to all safety policies and procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Necessary Equipment Operation

• Utilize inspection and measurement tools, including tape measures, calipers, micrometers, weld gauges, and thickness gauges
• Operate coating inspection equipment such as dry film thickness (DFT) gauges, surface profile gauges, and environmental monitoring instruments
• Assist with nondestructive examination (NDE) activities using inspection equipment under the supervision of qualified inspectors
• Use computers, tablets, and quality management software to document inspection results and prepare reports
• Operate digital cameras and other devices to record and maintain inspection records
• Safely use and maintain required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirators, and fall protection equipment

Special Skills

• Strong desire to develop a career in Quality Assurance and Quality Control
• Ability to learn NDT/NDE inspection methods and quality documentation procedures
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to read and interpret basic drawings, blueprints, sketches, and work instructions or willingness to learn
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers
• Ability to work under deadlines and schedule pressures
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills
• Demonstrate dependability, professionalism, and a commitment to safety
• Willingness to pursue industry certifications such as VT, PT, MT, NDT/NDE, or NACE as part of career development