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Structural Steel Fabrication Inspector (CWI)

SMEUSA
Plymouth, MI Full Time
POSTED ON 4/2/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/1/2026
The Opportunity

This is a full-time position for a quality assurance inspector (QAI) to provide oversight for state and local agency Department of Transportation (DOT) clients, that have materials that are produced at established structural steel fabrication facilities throughout the United States. Our projects typically consist of fabrication of bridge structural members and ancillary components, in accordance with the American welding Society (AWS) D1.5 Bridge Welding Code and per the Michigan DOT (MDOT) standards and client specifications. Occasionally, other projects opportunities outside of the fabrication facility may include erection and detailing reviews in the field for new and existing buildings, DOT structures and bridges, industrial settings, and utility structures. This position requires approximately 70% travel.

The right candidate must have significant knowledge of AWS codes and DOT standards and have demonstrable experience in a similar or related position. This person would replace a retiring team member that has held this position for several years, as well as support other existing team members that continue to perform these services. Existing experience will be supplemented by project specific transitional training by our established team members.

Responsibilities

  • Perform QAI services at fabrication facilities and provide oversight of the fabrication facility's quality control (QC), throughout the United States, on behalf of SME's clients.
  • Occasionally assisting with additional specialty reviews for structural steel, nondestructive testing, coatings, laboratory, or other services as needed to support other projects or services groups within SME.

Requirements

  • A current AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification.
  • Significant working knowledge and experience with AWS D1.1 and D1.5, and DOT standards.
  • Demonstrable experience in a similar or related position.
  • Ability to review and interpret structural steel plans, working drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • A good safety and driving record.
  • Approximately 70% travel.
  • Preferred but not required: knowledge and/or certifications associated with nondestructive testing (UT, MT, PT), additional ASNT or AWS endorsements, structural bolting, coatings, and/or additional building code special inspections.

SME's Core Values

  • Honestly and Integrity
  • Respect
  • Selfless Service
  • Teamwork
  • Practical Solutions

Benefits

At SME, we believe that taking care of our employees is the cornerstone of our success. Our commitment to your well-being goes beyond a job; it is about helping you thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a benefits package that is not simply meeting an expectation, but a key component of your overall job satisfaction. The following list highlights many of the benefits SME offers its employees.

  • SME provides Medical, Dental, and Vision after 30 days of employment.
  • SME covers the premium cost of medical insurance so that you and your families never have to worry about the costs of healthcare.
  • 401k match
  • Yearly profit sharing that goes directly into your 401k
  • Yearly performance bonuses
  • Yearly wage evaluations
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Competitive Paid Time Off
  • Volunteer Time Off

Salary.com Estimation for Structural Steel Fabrication Inspector (CWI) in Plymouth, MI
$46,555 to $58,978
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