Not that you need this JS, but for any others including the OP I thought they might get a better picture of the program.
" The welding engineer is a person who determines weld requirements which may be governed under a specific code, contract,
drawing, specification, purchase order, or other documents. The welding engineer either prepares or reviews written
instructions for the production of welded joints. The welding engineer must be thoroughly familiar with various
codes, specifications, other standards, base materials, filler materials, heat treatment, mechanical properties, welding and
joining processes, procedures, weld joint design, welding equipment, thermal cutting, inspection methods, acceptance
criteria, tests, welding qualification requirements, fabrication tolerances, and other aspects of fabrication and assembly.
The welding engineer shall also prepare and produce reports which accurately reflect professional judgment. For the
welding engineer to be effective, the activities they perform must be consistent with specified requirements, technical
and ethical principles. The welding engineer must be able to work with management representatives, inspection personnel,
welders and support crafts, and should be able to understand the role of each in the development of weldments.
It is recommended that an individual pursue certification as a Welding Engineer by a recognized authorized body. Certification
is defined as the act of determining, verifying, and attesting in writing to the qualification of personnel in accordance
with specified requirements." From B5.16-2006
For myself, I understand it to be an enhancer to ones credentials if in a position of setting up job parameters. Things like materials to be used and generate the PO properly for their delivery. WPS's and/or PQR's for the work including choosing the process(s) to be used, consumables, etc.
The CWEng cert would provide an employer with added verification on ones abilities to accomplish these kinds of tasks in addition to knowledge of applicable AWS Codes. As Al mentioned, in many ways the SCWI will document the same abilities but not all.
It is not a PE and it also is not a CWI and especially not an SCWI. But, just as the CWS and other programs, it can have it's usefulness beyond just another certification on your resume. Especially if there were a seminar that would assist with information geared toward the work expected of the position.
He Is In Control, Have a Great Day, Brent