QC Inspector

Position Summary

The Front-End Quality Control Inspector is responsible for performing initial inspections of structural steel members, plates, and fabricated components before they proceed to fitting and welding. This position verifies material identification, grade, traceability, and dimensional accuracy to ensure compliance with applicable shop drawings, project specifications, and SME's Quality Management System.

The inspector works closely with machine operators and shop personnel to promote quality awareness, verify inspection procedures, and identify nonconforming materials or components before they advance through the fabrication process. Early detection of discrepancies helps minimize rework, reduce production costs, and maintain quality standards.

This is an entry-level quality control position. Training will be provided to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to perform inspections accurately and consistently.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Material Identification and Traceability

• Select and inspect steel members and components from designated front-end processing and parts fabrication areas.
• Verify that incoming steel materials meet the required material grades and specifications, including A992 and A572 Grade 50, as applicable.
• Identify and verify material heat numbers against the corresponding Mill Test Reports (MTRs) to confirm material certification and traceability.
• Verify that heat numbers are properly transferred and maintained on cut components to preserve material traceability throughout the fabrication process.
• Identify and report discrepancies involving material grades, identification markings, certifications, or traceability documentation.

2. Dimensional and Drawing Inspections

• Interpret shop drawings and compare fabricated components against specified dimensions, configurations, and requirements.
• Verify material sizes and shapes, including wide-flange beams, plates, angles, and other structural steel components.
• Inspect component lengths, cuts, copes, bevels, and other required features for dimensional accuracy.
• Verify hole diameters, locations, and configurations, including round and slotted holes.
• Use appropriate inspection tools, including tape measures, calipers, squares, and hole gauges, to obtain accurate measurements.
• Identify, mark, and document conforming components in accordance with established quality procedures.
• Identify, tag, and segregate nonconforming materials or components to prevent unintended use or further processing.

3. Production Quality Verification

• Verify that saw, drill, plasma, punch, and other front-end processing operators perform required first-piece inspections at the beginning of each shift before continuing production.
• Monitor compliance with established in-process inspection requirements, including subsequent inspections at intervals of every 5–10 pieces, as applicable to the operation.
• Confirm that operators accurately document their inspection results using the designated forms or electronic systems.
• Communicate missed inspections, recurring quality issues, and deviations from established procedures to the operator and Shop QC Supervisor promptly.
• Promote consistent adherence to quality standards and encourage a proactive approach to defect prevention throughout the shop.

4. Documentation and Reporting

• Complete accurate, legible, and timely inspection records using approved paper forms and company software.
• Document dimensional discrepancies, material identification issues, and other deviations from shop drawings or applicable requirements.
• Assist in preparing Nonconformance Reports (NCRs) and supporting documentation as needed.
• Promptly communicate inspection findings, quality concerns, and nonconforming conditions to the appropriate supervisor.
• Maintain inspection records in accordance with SME's documentation and quality control procedures.

5. Safety, Equipment, and Quality Compliance

• Maintain inspection tools and equipment in clean, serviceable condition and ensure required calibration is current.
• Follow all applicable safety requirements and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Comply with SME's Quality Management System, inspection procedures, and applicable project quality requirements.
• Perform additional inspection and quality-related duties as assigned by the QC Supervisor or QC Manager.
• Work overtime, weekends, or alternate shifts as necessary to support production and quality requirements.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to accurately read a tape measure to 1/16 inch.
• Basic mathematical skills, including working with fractions, decimals, and dimensional measurements.
• Ability to read and complete inspection documentation in English.
• Basic computer skills, including the ability to use a computer, tablet, and company software.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to identify discrepancies in materials and fabricated components.
• Dependable, punctual, and committed to maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
• Ability to pass SME's vision screening for close-up visual acuity and color recognition, with or without corrective lenses.
• Ability to successfully complete SME onboarding, required quality control training, and SME's QCI training or certification requirements.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

• One or more years of experience in a steel fabrication shop in a role such as fitter, welder, machine operator, or quality inspector.
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting structural steel shop drawings.
• Previous experience using inspection tools such as calipers, squares, and hole gauges.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Work is performed primarily in a steel fabrication shop environment that may be noisy and is not climate controlled, resulting in exposure to hot temperatures during summer and cold temperatures during winter.
• Requires prolonged periods of standing and walking, as well as frequent bending, kneeling, climbing, and movement throughout the shop.
• Must be able to lift and carry materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Requires working around overhead cranes, forklifts, heavy steel materials, cutting equipment, and other industrial machinery.
• Must wear required PPE, including safety glasses, steel-toe boots, gloves, and hearing protection, in accordance with applicable safety requirements.
• Occasional travel to other SME facilities may be required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Equal Employment Opportunity

SME Industries, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, status as a protected veteran, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.