Fabrication Shop Inspector Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of manufacturing, the role of a fabrication shop inspector has never been more critical.

As technology and production needs evolve, there is a growing demand for skilled individuals who can ensure the quality, compliance and safety of our fabrication outputs.

So, what exactly does a fabrication shop inspector do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes processes of a fabrication shop,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable fabrication shop inspector job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Fabrication Shop Inspector Duties and Responsibilities

Fabrication Shop Inspectors play a vital role in the manufacturing industry, ensuring all fabricated materials, parts, and equipment are made to specification and meet industry safety standards.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspecting and measuring materials, products, and installations to ensure they meet specifications
• Reading and interpreting blueprints, data, manuals, and other materials to determine specifications
• Identifying and marking items with details such as grade and acceptance or rejection status
• Conducting tests to ensure quality or detect defects, using tools or gauges
• Notifying supervisors or other personnel of production problems or defects
• Documenting inspection outcomes by completing detailed reports and performance records
• Maintaining and calibrating inspection tools and equipment to ensure accuracy
• Enforcing safety regulations and good work practices among workers
• Collaborating with production staff to address and resolve quality issues

 

Fabrication Shop Inspector Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a meticulous Fabrication Shop Inspector to oversee the quality and safety of our fabrication processes.

In this role, you will inspect raw materials, equipment, and finished products to ensure conformance with standards.

Your responsibilities will include performing regular inspections, maintaining inspection records, and reporting any inconsistencies or defects.

You should have a keen eye for detail, excellent mechanical skills, and knowledge of the fabrication process.

Ultimately, the role of the Fabrication Shop Inspector is to ensure that all our products meet quality and safety standards before they reach our customers.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect raw materials to ensure consistency and integrity
• Maintain, test and troubleshoot all fabrication equipment
• Perform inspections of final products to ensure they meet specifications
• Document inspection outcomes by completing detailed reports and performance records
• Teach the production team about quality control concerns to improve product excellence
• Supervise the production process to ensure quality and safety standards are met
• Resolve quality-related issues in a timely manner
• Communicate with the rest of the production team about quality control

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Fabrication Shop Inspector or similar role
• Excellent knowledge of fabrication processes and safety standards
• Proficiency in using testing tools and equipment
• Ability to read blueprints and specifications
• Strong mechanical and technical skills
• Detail-oriented with a focus on quality and safety
• High school diploma; further training will be a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fabrication Shop Inspector
• Work Environment: This role requires work in a fabrication shop environment. Protective gear may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Shop Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Fabrication Shop Inspector Do?

Fabrication Shop Inspectors play a crucial role in the manufacturing industry, where they are primarily responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of fabricated items.

Their duties involve examining and evaluating the quality of finished goods, parts, or components according to defined specifications and standards.

This includes checking dimensions, visual inspection for defects, and conducting any necessary tests, like hardness or tensile testing.

They use a variety of tools and equipment such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges to measure the accuracy of the fabrication.

If they find any defects or inconsistencies, they document the issues and ensure that they are corrected before the product leaves the facility.

Fabrication Shop Inspectors also monitor the fabrication process, ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and that the shop adheres to safety regulations.

They also work closely with other professionals in the shop, like fabricators and welders, to ensure quality control standards are met throughout the production process.

Their role is essential in maintaining the high standards of product quality and safety that the manufacturing industry requires.

 

Fabrication Shop Inspector Qualifications and Skills

A Fabrication Shop Inspector should possess a range of technical skills, attention to detail, industry knowledge, and problem-solving abilities to ensure that all fabricated products meet specified standards, such as:

• Technical skills and mechanical aptitude to understand the workings of machines and equipment used in the fabrication process.
• Quality control analysis skills to conduct tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
• Attention to detail to detect any defects or discrepancies in the fabrication work that could compromise the integrity of the final product.
• Understanding and knowledge of safety standards and regulations within the industry to ensure all products meet necessary requirements.
• Excellent communication skills to report findings and liaise with fabrication engineers and other personnel about any potential issues.
• Problem-solving skills to identify causes of defects or errors and recommend corrective actions.
• Physical endurance to stand or move around the shop floor for long periods, as well as handling and inspecting large or heavy components.
• Proficiency in using computerized measuring tools and software for accurate inspections.

 

Fabrication Shop Inspector Experience Requirements

Fabrication Shop Inspectors typically have a background in manufacturing, engineering, or a related field.

Most employers require at least 1-2 years of relevant hands-on experience, usually obtained through internships or entry-level positions in a manufacturing or fabrication setting.

They should have experience in inspecting a wide range of fabricated parts and products, including metal structures, machinery, and equipment.

Also, experience with industry-specific tools, such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other measuring instruments is often a critical requirement.

Inspectors with over 3 years of experience usually have developed a deep understanding of fabrication processes, quality standards, and inspection techniques.

They may also have experience in documenting inspection results and identifying non-conformance to specifications.

Those with more than 5 years of experience might be expected to have some supervisory or leadership experience.

They could be tasked with overseeing inspection teams, providing training to junior inspectors, or managing quality control procedures in the fabrication shop.

Moreover, a Fabrication Shop Inspector must have a solid understanding of blueprint reading and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, typically gained through experience and formal training.

 

Fabrication Shop Inspector Education and Training Requirements

Fabrication Shop Inspectors typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, having an associate’s degree in quality control, mechanical engineering technology or a related field can be an added advantage.

Prospective inspectors should have a strong background in mathematics, engineering, and industrial technology to understand and inspect the complex machinery and processes involved in fabrication.

On-the-job training is often necessary for these roles, as the inspectors must become familiar with the specific tools, processes, and standards used in the fabrication shop they will be working in.

This training can last several months and is usually supervised by a senior inspector or manager.

In addition, Fabrication Shop Inspectors may also need to be certified by professional bodies such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

These certifications typically involve examinations and could require a certain amount of professional experience.

They might also need to have a working knowledge of specific industry standards, such as those set by the American Welding Society (AWS) or American Petroleum Institute (API), depending on the nature of the fabrication shop.

Continuous learning and skill development are crucial in this role, due to the ongoing advancements in fabrication technology and quality control methods.

Hence, taking part in advanced courses or seminars is often encouraged.

 

Fabrication Shop Inspector Salary Expectations

A Fabrication Shop Inspector can expect to earn an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate depending on factors like level of experience, qualifications, location, and the size of the hiring company.

 

Fabrication Shop Inspector Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Fabrication Shop Inspector need?

Fabrication Shop Inspectors need strong observational skills and attention to detail to identify any defects or problems in the fabrication process.

They should have a comprehensive understanding of fabrication methods and materials and the ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.

An aptitude for mechanical and technical tasks is essential, as is a good understanding of safety procedures and regulations.

 

Do Fabrication Shop Inspectors need a degree?

A degree is not necessarily required for Fabrication Shop Inspectors, but they must have relevant experience in fabrication or manufacturing.

Many individuals in this role may have a vocational or technical degree in welding, fabrication, or a similar field.

In some cases, certification from a recognized industry body may be required.

 

What should you look for in a Fabrication Shop Inspector resume?

Look for a strong background in fabrication or manufacturing, with specific experience in inspection roles.

Knowledge of quality assurance processes, safety regulations, and the ability to use inspection tools and equipment should be highlighted.

Certifications from industry bodies can also be a plus.

Finally, good communication skills are important as inspectors often need to report their findings and make recommendations for improvement.

 

What qualities make a good Fabrication Shop Inspector?

A good Fabrication Shop Inspector has a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach to their work.

They should be able to identify issues quickly and accurately and understand the implications of these issues for the fabrication process.

Good communication skills are also important, as inspectors often need to report their findings, sometimes to non-technical staff.

They should also be committed to maintaining high safety standards and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

 

Is it challenging to hire Fabrication Shop Inspectors?

Hiring Fabrication Shop Inspectors can be challenging as it requires finding candidates with a specific set of skills and experience.

The role also requires a deep understanding of fabrication processes and quality assurance, which not all candidates may possess.

However, providing comprehensive training and development opportunities can help attract and retain qualified inspectors.

 

Conclusion

There you have it!

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly means to be a Fabrication Shop Inspector.

And you know what?

It’s not just about inspecting parts.

It’s about shaping the world of manufacturing, one inspection at a time.

With our essential Fabrication Shop Inspector job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool to creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every part inspected contributes to the larger project.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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