Quality Control Technician

Quality Control (QC) technician in the cryogenic trailer industry ensures that specialized tank trailers for transporting super-cold liquefied gases are manufactured, refurbished, and maintained to meet stringent safety and performance standards. The technician performs detailed inspections and tests throughout the trailer's life cycle.

Duties and responsibilities

- Must have strong communication skills

- Reports to Plant Supervisor

A QC technician's role is critical for inspecting and testing various components of cryogenic trailers. Key responsibilities include:

- Inspecting welds: The technician visually inspects welds for proper penetration, consistency, and defects. Certified welding inspection is often required.

- Checking components: Verifies that the correct parts are installed and that they are properly aligned.

- Conducting vacuum testing: Tests the vacuum integrity of the annular space—the insulated vacuum between the inner and outer vessels—to minimize heat transfer and prevent product loss.

- Conducting pressure tests: Pressurizes the vessels and uses acoustic emission testing to detect potential problems.

- Verifying certification: Ensures the trailer meets all U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) specifications, which can include MC-338 and other designations for cryogenic transport.

- Maintaining documentation: Logs all inspection findings, test results, and repairs to create a comprehensive quality record for each trailer.

Essential qualifications and skills

A successful QC technician in this specialized field typically possesses a combination of education, experience, and specific skills:

- Education: A high school diploma or GED is the minimum, but many employers prefer candidates with an associate degree or vocational training in quality control, welding, or a related technical field.

- Experience: Previous experience in a manufacturing environment is beneficial, with a strong preference for experience involving cryogenic tanks or pressure vessels.

- Reading schematics: The ability to read and interpret technical documents, blueprints, and diagrams is a must-have skill.

- Hands-on skills: A technician must be proficient with hand tools and the use of various diagnostic and testing equipment.

- Attention to detail: This is a crucial quality for accurately inspecting welds, verifying measurements, and ensuring trailer functionality and safety.

- Communication: Good written and verbal communication skills are necessary for collaborating with engineering and production teams and accurately reporting findings.

- Certifications: Obtaining certifications from organizations like the American Society for Quality (ASQ) can enhance career opportunities.

Career path and advancement

A career as a QC technician in the cryogenic trailer industry offers opportunities for growth based on experience and further education.

- Entry-level: Technicians often begin with basic inspections and testing under supervision.

- Mid-level: With experience, a technician can specialize in areas like regulatory compliance, quality assurance, or process improvement.

- Advancement: Experienced technicians can move into roles such as Senior QC Technician, QC Supervisor, or Quality Assurance Manager.

Job Type: Full-time

Base Pay: $28.00 - $34.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Paid time off

- Vision insurance

Work Location: In person