Welding/Field Inspector

Welding/Field Inspector
Contract

Sigma Design has collaborated with a heavy industrial fabricator seeking an experienced Metrology Technician III  to join their facility in Vancouver, WA. This company is an established heavy industrial fabrication provider serving infrastructure, energy, and marine sectors across the west coast. This position is contract with an expected duration of 5 months, with opportunity to go longer. This role is In-Office.

While on contract you are eligible for:

• Multiple options for medical insurance and dental insurance including some with FSA and HSA
• 401(k) with up to 4% company match
• 15-days of accrued PTO and 9 company paid holidays
• Quarterly bonus program
• Voluntary benefits: vision, long-term disability, and life insurance
• Salary: The hiring range for this role is typically between $28 and $35 an hour, with the full range extending to $42, based on experience, internal equity, and career progression

Position Details:

• This position will be In-Office or on Location
• Monday – Friday, 6 or 7 am start (flexible), 5x8
• The hiring range for this role is typically between $45 and $55 an hour, with the full range extending to $65, based on experience, internal equity, and career progression

Primary Function:
The shop Metrology Technician is responsible for performing high-precision measurements, alignment, and quality validation on large-scale fabricated structures (e.g., bridges, dams, and heavy industrial assemblies). This role ensures components are fabricated, modified, and assembled within specification by leveraging advanced metrology tools, interpreting complex drawings, and directing employees during critical alignment and installation operations.

Essential Job Functions - Responsibilities:

• Perform precision measurement and alignment using equipment such as laser trackers, total stations, 3D scanners
• Establish and communicate cut lines, alignment targets, and corrective actions to ensure all related assemblies meet tolerance and fitment requirements
• Interpret complex shop drawings, blueprints, schematics, and GD&T to guide fabrication and installation decisions
• Generate deviation reports and analyze measurement data to support quality control and continuous improvement
• Collaborate closely with leadership, Mechanics, fitters, rigging teams, and QC to ensure alignment and fabrication processes remain within specification
• Direct and coordinate multiple crafts during time-sensitive operations where errors can result in significant cost or rework
• Make real-time decisions in dynamic environments, accounting for environmental factors such as temperature, load shifts, equipment movement, and structural changes
• Utilize metrology software (e.g., AutoCAD, Trimble Real works) to analyze and validate measurement data
• Support live production and installation activities where precision and timing impact multiple trades simultaneously
• Maintain strong jobsite awareness, including safety risks and environmental influences affecting measurement accuracy
• Work with the management team to develop a survey plan at the beginning of a project and communicate what information the metrology department will need on the shop drawings to execute their scope of work. Including but not limited to a model, file formats, and details on the shop drawings
• Follow Business Technology policies to protect sensitive data and reduce information security occurrences.

Education and Experience: (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)

• Education or equivalent experience in engineering, metrology, surveying, or related STEM field required
• 5+ years of experience in metrology, surveying, or precision measurement within fabrication, construction, or heavy industrial environments preferred
• Hands-on experience with metrology equipment (Trimble, total stations, Trimble 3D scanner)
• Strong understanding of GD&T, tolerances, and advanced print reading
• Experience with metrology software (Trimble real works & AutoCAD)
• Knowledge of welding, machining, and structural fabrication processes
• Strong spatial reasoning and ability to work within Cartesian coordinate systems
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools (micrometers, indicators, etc.)
• Experience with data transfers
• Ability to make decisions with incomplete data and clearly communicate risk, tolerance, and intent
• Comfortable directing teams and taking ownership in high-stakes environments where mistakes are costly
• Ability to work in demanding field conditions (weather, heights, heavy equipment, cranes, forklifts, heat, etc.)
• Strong written and verbal English language communication skills
• Excellent teamwork/interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, both within and outside one's own work group

Work Environment
Shop: Standard machine shop environment with various types of machinery. Some jobsite travel required, must be able to work outside in the elements. Appropriate safety garments (PPE) must be worn. Must be able to stand and work as long as 12 hours in different positions. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.