Job Summary:
Nationwide Skilled Trades is seeking an experienced Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector to support operations at a local Shipyard in Norfolk, VA.
The QA Inspector is responsible for ensuring all work performed meets industry standards, customer specifications, and internal quality procedures. This role requires a strong understanding of shipyard operations, construction processes, and quality standards related to welding, structural fabrication, piping, electrical, and/or mechanical systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform inspections on in-process and completed work to ensure compliance with specifications, blueprints, and applicable codes (e.g., NAVSEA, ABS, USCG).
- Conduct visual, dimensional, and functional inspections of welds, structures, piping systems, electrical installations, coatings, and machinery, depending on area of specialization.
- Review and verify test documentation, certifications, material traceability, and inspection records.
- Monitor workmanship and process compliance throughout various stages of ship construction or repair.
- Identify non-conformances, issue corrective action reports, and follow up on resolution.
- Interface with project managers, craft supervisors, and customer representatives to resolve quality issues.
- Ensure documentation is completed accurately for audits and final reports.
- Maintain current knowledge of applicable quality standards and shipyard procedures.
- Promote safety and quality culture throughout the worksite.
Qualifications:
- 3–5 years of experience in a QA/QC role within a shipyard, maritime, or heavy industrial environment.
- Strong understanding of ship construction, welding, piping, coatings, or electrical systems (area of focus may vary).
- Familiarity with NAVSEA Standard Items, ABS rules, or relevant commercial/military standards.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical specifications, and inspection reports.
- Working knowledge of inspection tools (e.g., weld gauges, micrometers, multimeters, borescopes, etc.).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and inspection documentation tools.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in confined spaces, on scaffolding, and aboard vessels in various stages of construction or repair.
Preferred Certifications (based on specialization):
- Welding/Structural: AWS CWI, VT/MT/PT/UT certifications
- Coatings: NACE/AMPP Level I or II
- Electrical: Marine Electrical Inspector certification (or equivalent experience)
- Mechanical/Piping: NAVSEA/ASME inspection experience or related certs
- OSHA 10 or 30 Maritime Certification
- Must be able to access Government facilities and be DBIDS eligible.
Work Environment:
- Shipyard setting including onboard vessels, dry docks, and shops.
- Exposure to various weather conditions, heights, confined spaces, and industrial noise.
- May involve shift work, overtime, weekends, and extended hours based on project needs.
Nationwide Skilled Trades is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or any characteristic protected by law. About Nationwide Skilled Trades, Inc. Nationwide Skilled Trades is dedicated to recruiting and developing diverse, high performing talent who are passionate in what they do. Our employees are the driving force behind our success and reputation for providing top talent amongst skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen to the clients that we serve. Fundamental to our culture, is an unwavering commitment to ethics and values.
