Project Engineers
Overview
A Quality Control Project Engineer (QPE) for a prime contractor on a Corps of Engineers project is responsible for ensuring construction work meets quality standards and complies with contract specifications for his specific assigned discipline's. They are tasked with helping implement the company Quality Control Plan (QCP) by conduct inspections, oversee testing of materials, and ensure proper documentation of quality activities.
In the office
The QPE works closely with the quality control manager to manage non-conformance issues and ensuring compliance with specifications and local laws and regulations.
Submittal Processing
As part of his duties the QC engineer reviews submittals from subcontractors for compliance with the contract by comparing the submittal data against the contract specifications. Once found in compliance uploads the submittal to the proper submittal register item and informs the QC manager that the submittal is ready for transfer to the USACE through RMS 3.
The QCM has soul responsibility of signing that the submittal package meets the contract requirements.
Upon return the QCM informs the PE that the submittal can be returned to the subcontractor with any comments. If approved the submittal is closed, else a response from the subcontractor is retrieved for re-submission in the similar process.
RFI's follow a similar process.
In the field
The Project Engineer enforces safety standards, and addresses any quality issues through corrective actions process. Their roles ensures the project is completed to the required quality, safety, and regulatory standards. The PE is expected to make regular inspections, review work in-progress and comment on all ongoing work in daily report logs, typically the same or maximum the next business day.
Documentation and Reporting
Maintaining accurate records is crucial.
The QC engineer:
* Ensures that all inspections, testing, and corrective actions are properly documented
* Creates and maintains logs of daily QC activities, inspection reports, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and corrective actions
* Prepares regular reports for the prime contractor and the USACE to ensure transparency of compliance
More Details
Required Qualifications and Skills
- Education: Typically a degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
- Experience: Several years of experience in construction management, especially in quality control roles on government or large-scale construction projects.
- Certifications: Familiarity with USACE standards and requirements, such as those outlined in the EM 385-1-1 (Safety Manual) and UFGS (Unified Facilities Guide Specifications). Some may also have certifications like CQI (Certified Quality Inspector) or Six Sigma.
- Skills: Strong understanding of construction processes, inspection procedures, and contract requirements. They should also have excellent communication and organizational skills to manage documentation and collaborate with teams.
Key Challenges
- Coordination with Multiple Stakeholders: QC engineers often need to collaborate with contractors, subcontractors, government agencies, and suppliers, which requires strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Managing Complexity and Compliance: Working on USACE projects involves ensuring that the contractor complies with numerous regulations, requirements, and standards, which can sometimes be a challenge due to complexity or scope changes during the project.
- Ensuring Timely and Accurate Reporting: Ensuring that all quality control documentation is up to date and meets the stringent reporting standards of the USACE is essential.
In short, the QC Project Engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring that all aspects of construction meet the required quality standards, meet the expectations of the Corps of Engineers, and comply with the relevant regulations.