Mid-Level Fabrication Engineer
Location: Richland, WA
Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
About Columbia Energy
Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business with a strong track record of delivering comprehensive solutions in engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and other specialized services. With expertise in fixed-price design/build/test projects, we serve both federal and commercial clients, consistently delivering high-quality results through innovation and technical precision.
Our collaborative and experienced team is committed to providing practical, client-focused solutions tailored to address a wide range of challenges. With a growing presence in Idaho Falls, ID, we continue to expand our capabilities while maintaining our reputation for quality, safety, and integrity.
Why Join Columbia Energy?
This is an excellent opportunity for a mid-level engineer ready to lead technical execution in a highly regulated and mission-driven environment. You'll have the chance to own deliverables, support compliance with NQA-1 and ASME code requirements, and collaborate with talented peers in engineering, QA, project management, and shop operations. We value accountability, sound judgment, and a commitment to seeing things through.
Position Overview
As a Mid-Level Fabrication Engineer, you will be responsible for overseeing the technical execution of fabrication projects involving mechanical and structural components subject to NQA-1 and other applicable codes. Your role will include developing and reviewing procedures, managing documentation, interpreting complex engineering specifications, and participating in audits and inspections. You will help ensure deliverables meet quality, safety, and schedule expectations across a wide range of projects serving the Department of Energy and other federal clients.
This position requires a hands-on engineer who understands how designs are implemented on the shop floor and can bridge the gap between engineering intent and fabrication execution.
Key Responsibilities
Fabrication Oversight & Engineering Execution
- Provide technical direction and interpretation of design drawings, fabrication codes, and client specifications
- Develop and/or review fabrication travelers, ITPs, and work packages to ensure code compliance and project accuracy
- Lead or assist in the development of welding and fabrication procedures in accordance with ASME and AWS standards
- Verify proper implementation of fabrication requirements, including material traceability, dimensional tolerances, and inspection criteria
- Collaborate with QA/QC and Welding Engineering staff to resolve technical issues
- Ensure compliance with ASME Sections III, V, VIII, and IX; AWS D1.1; and applicable DOE/NRC standards
- Participate in or support internal and external audits as an engineering technical representative
- Identify and document non-conformances; support root cause analysis and corrective action implementation
- Contribute to engineering change notices (ECNs), deviation requests, and final data packages
- Coordinate with Project Managers, Procurement, and Shop Supervisors to plan and track fabrication work
- Assist with schedule adherence by flagging technical risks or material readiness gaps
- Provide mentoring or guidance to junior engineers and drafters
- Interface directly with clients, auditors, and third-party inspectors as required
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Welding Engineering, or related technical discipline
- 5-10 years of fabrication or manufacturing engineering experience in a regulated environment
- Demonstrated experience working under an NQA-1 program and applying ASME Code Sections (III, V, VIII, IX)
- Strong proficiency in reading and interpreting drawings, weld symbols, and technical specifications
- Working knowledge of quality control principles, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement practices
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with working experience using CAD software (SolidWorks or Inventor preferred)
- U.S. citizenship required due to government contract requirements
- Experience working with DOE or NRC clients and associated project environments
- Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Deltek, Costpoint) and fabrication documentation tracking tools
- Comfortable interacting with third-party inspectors and participating in formal audits
- Knowledge of welding metallurgy and weld procedure qualification processes
- Solutions-focused engineer with strong technical ownership
- Clear communicator and collaborator across cross-functional teams
- Organized, responsive, and committed to meeting deadlines without sacrificing quality
- Professional under pressure and able to adapt to changing project priorities
- Must be able to move between office and fabrication floor environments
- Periodic standing, walking, bending, and lifting of items up to 30 lbs.
- Comfortable wearing PPE in shop or test areas as needed
Working Conditions
This role is based in Richland, WA, and involves a blend of office and shop collaboration. While much of the work is computer- and documentation-based, periodic walkdowns and shop interactions are expected. You may occasionally support fieldwork or equipment testing, depending on project needs.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Columbia Energy is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.