Can you narrow the scope of your question to which code/spec the WPS is based on?
AWS codes/specs do not limit who can write a WPS. This can be done by anyone who knows how.
Other codes/specs may have different requirements.
Here's a breakdown of what AWS says about Welding Inspectors, however writing procedures or qualifying welders is not limited to CWI only. -
CAWI – Certified Associate Welding Inspector (Entry Level)
- Responsibilities – The CAWI shall be able to perform inspections only under the active supervision of a SCWI or CWI. The SCWI or CWI shall maintain the responsibility for determining final acceptance.
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CWI – Certified Welding Inspector-
- Responsibilities – The CWI shall be able to perform inspections or to verify that the work inspected and records maintained, conform to the requirements of the applicable standards and perform all WI duties listed in AWS B5.1, Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors. The CWI shall also be able to certify the qualification of welders to various codes or standards.
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SCWI – Senior Certified Welding Inspector-
- Responsibilities – In addition to the responsibilities listed for a CWI, the SCWI shall be able to supervise one or more CWIs, CAWIs, or NDE personnel, prepare inspection procedures, review and interpret joining procedures, conduct audits of vendors and/or organizations providing materials or services to the project, and ensure that the work performed and the records maintained conform to the requirements of the applicable standards and other contract documents and perform all SWI duties listed in AWS B5.1, Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors.
Tim
By 803056 
Date 09-03-2022 13:53
Edited 09-03-2022 13:55
B5.1, Table 1 identifies what tasks each level of certification is expected to be able to perform. That doesn't mean each inspector with an AWS credential will have a mastery of all the subjects covered by Table 1.
Other than the CAWI, B5.1 doesn't prohibit anyone from performing a particular task, but other than a simple prequalified WPS, few CWI's are prepared to develop a WPS. However, the Code of Ethics states that the certified inspector will only perform those tasks for which he/she is qualified to perform.
There's very little in the AWS CWI seminar that prepares the CWI to develop a WPS. With that in mind, there are courses offered that do provide training specific to developing a WPS, as well as how to develop a program to qualify welders.
Keep an eye out for the advertisements in Inspection Trends. Look for a course offered with the title "The Atlas of Welding Procedure Specifications". It is being offered in early 2023 as an on-line Zoom course. You don't even have to leave the comfort of your home. The course consists of 20-hours of class time as well as take-home exercises to prepare an individual to develop a WPS.
Good luck - Al
