QA/QC Engineer (NQA-1 Program Lead)

Hermanson Company•Hanford, WA

1d•$145,000 - $165,000

About The Position

The QA/QC Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining a project-specific Quality Assurance/Quality Control program compliant with NQA‑1 standards. This role serves as the primary quality authority on the project, performing both program management and hands-on inspection activities. This position operates independently with no direct reports, coordinating quality efforts across project teams, subcontractors, and field personnel to ensure compliance with contract requirements, codes, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
Demonstrated experience implementing or managing an NQA‑1 compliant QA program.
Strong working knowledge of: Mechanical construction practices (piping, HVAC, fabrication, installation), Applicable codes and standards (ASME, ANSI, etc.).
Experience performing both QA program administration and field inspections.
Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment without direct supervision.
Strong documentation and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

ASQ certifications (CQA, CQE) or equivalent quality credentials.
Prior experience on nuclear, DOE, or highly regulated projects.
Experience with audit programs and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and maintain the project QA/QC program in compliance with ASME NQA 1 standards.
Serve as the designated QA authority for the project, including responsibility for audits, procedures, and quality documentation.
Prepare and control: Quality plans, Inspection and test plans (ITPs), Procedures and work instructions.
Ensure document control, traceability, and record retention requirements are fully compliant with NQA 1.
Interface with clients, regulatory bodies, and third-party auditors on QA matters.
Perform hands-on inspections of mechanical systems, materials, and installations.
Verify compliance with: Project specifications, Codes and standards, Approved submittals and procedures.
Conduct: First work inspections, In-process inspections, Final inspections and turnover verification.
Document inspection results and ensure all deficiencies are tracked through resolution.
Identify, document, and manage: Nonconformance Reports (NCRs), Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs).
Lead root cause analysis and ensure timely closure of quality issues.
Track trends and implement corrective improvements to prevent recurrence.
Ensure subcontractors are executing their own QC processes prior to QA validation.
Review subcontractor inspection records, checklists, and punch lists.
Validate subcontractor compliance with contract documents and quality requirements.
Plan and perform internal audits in accordance with NQA‑1.
Support external audits (client, regulatory, or third-party).
Ensure readiness for audits at all project phases.
Partner with: Project Managers, Field Superintendents, Engineering and VDC teams.
Provide real-time quality guidance to prevent rework and maintain schedule.
Participate in pre-installation meetings, turnover planning, and project closeout.
Identify opportunities to improve quality processes, documentation, and execution.
Support standardization of QA/QC practices across projects.
Maintain knowledge of evolving codes, standards, and NQA‑1 requirements.

Benefits

Competitive pay with bonus opportunities
Medical, prescription, dental & vision coverage with zero to low weekly premiums
401(k) with discretionary company match
Generous paid time off (vacation, sick time, and paid holidays)
Disability income protection
Life insurance for employees and eligible dependents
Optional added protection with critical illness and accident plans
Career growth & development opportunities
In-house training programs
Certificate & tuition reimbursement
Wellness program
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)