Thornton Engineering is a proud, family-owned company established in 1975, known for delivering high-quality steel fabrication for some of Australia’s largest infrastructure projects. With a strong reputation for precision, innovation, and long-term client relationships, we are now seeking a capable and driven Welding Inspector to join our Pressure Vessel & Heat Exchanger Division.
This is a key opportunity for a professional with a strong background in pressure vessels and steel fabrication to make their mark in a growing business — not just inspecting projects, but driving quality and continuous improvement across the workshop.
Job Description
Reporting to the Welding Engineer and QA Manager, this Afternoon Shift role is responsible for ensuring the highest welding quality standards on pressure vessels and heat exchangers. You will oversee inspections, monitor welder performance, manage qualifications, and maintain traceability documentation to meet project and code requirements.
Key responsibilities include:
Conducting visual inspections (VI) of welds in line with AS/NZS and ASME codes.
Managing welder qualifications, requalification processes, and maintaining MDR records.
Monitoring welding processes, consumables, and equipment to ensure compliance with WPS.
Recording welding activities in the QC database (Simweb) and project work packs.
Mentoring and developing welding staff to improve skills and reduce weld defects.
Liaising with day shift supervisors and inspectors to ensure smooth handovers.
Assisting QC/QA teams with documentation and NDT contractor management.
Qualifications
We are looking for someone with:
Trade qualification in welding or fabrication.
Preferably AS1796 Welding Supervisor Certificate 10 or equivalent inspector certification (IIW, WTIA, CBIP, or CSWIP 3.1/3.2).
Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role within a pressure vessel workshop plus 5 years’ trade experience.
Strong knowledge of AS and ASME welding codes and NDT requirements.
Proven experience across manual welding processes (GTAW, SMAW, GMAW, FCAW) and automated systems (SAW, Orbital, robotic).
Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to lead and mentor under pressure.
Additional Information
Why Join Thornton Engineering?
Build with the Best – Work on Australia’s largest and most iconic infrastructure projects alongside Tier 1 clients. Our company plays a key role in delivering complex, large-scale steel packages that shape the nation.
Professional Growth – Join a high-performing team where your skills are valued and your development is supported. Gain exposure to major projects, codes, and client specifications while developing leadership skills.
Established, Respected, Growing – With over 45 years of continuous operation, Thornton Engineering is a trusted name in Australian fabrication. As a privately-owned company, we combine stability with agility and a focus on continuous improvement.
Location & Lifestyle – Based in Geelong’s northern industrial hub, enjoy the benefits of on-site parking, minimal commute stress, and being part of a supportive, solutions-focused environment.
Apply today with your resume and a short cover letter outlining your availability and experience in welding inspection and pressure vessel fabrication.
Follow our progress on www.thorntoneng.com.au.
