Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Jobs

A Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is a critical professional responsible for verifying that weldments meet the specific quality and safety requirements of a project. This role is governed by the American Welding Society (AWS). It requires an extensive knowledge of welding processes, symbols, and procedures. CWIs ensure that every weld is performed according to a qualified Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) and that the welders are properly certified for the task at hand.

CWIs work in diverse settings including bridge construction, pressure vessel fabrication, and aerospace manufacturing. During an inspection, the CWI performs visual examinations to check for defects like undercut, porosity, or lack of fusion. They also review material test reports and verify that the base metals and filler materials match the engineering specifications. Their signature on an inspection report is a legal attestation that the structure or component is safe for its intended use.

The path to becoming a CWI involves a rigorous three part exam covering fundamentals, practical applications, and codebook navigation. Inspectors typically specialize in specific codes such as AWS D1.1 for structural steel or API 1104 for cross country pipelines. Higher levels of certification include the Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) for those with advanced experience in management or engineering. Because they bridge the gap between design and execution, CWIs are vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the modern world.