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Bridge Welding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Previous inspection or trade experience in inspection or performing welding on bridge construction or bridge seismic retrofit projects. Roles and Responsibilities: * Under the oversight and direction ...

Previous inspection or trade experience in inspection or performing welding on bridge construction or bridge seismic retrofit projects. Roles and Responsibilities: * Under the oversight and direction ...

Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Chips peens and grinds material to prepare for welding or finish. * Welds structural, bridge and industrial materials such as plates, sheets, girders, tanks, etc., occasionally involving uncommon ...

Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Chips peens and grinds material to prepare for welding or finish. * Welds structural, bridge and industrial materials such as plates, sheets, girders, tanks, etc., occasionally involving uncommon ...

Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Chips peens and grinds material to prepare for welding or finish. * Welds structural, bridge and industrial materials such as plates, sheets, girders, tanks, etc., occasionally involving uncommon ...

Fitter/Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... and/or bridge fabrication to build some of the most complex and high profile projects in the ... Follows applicable welding procedures (AWS, AISC) * Welds on the ground level, above ground and ...

Fitter/Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... and/or bridge fabrication to build some of the most complex and high profile projects in the ... Follows applicable welding procedures (AWS, AISC) * Welds on the ground level, above ground and ...

Fitter/Welder

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... and/or bridge fabrication to build some of the most complex and high profile projects in the ... Follows applicable welding procedures (AWS, AISC) * Welds on the ground level, above ground and ...

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Bridge Welding information

See California salary details

$24

$41

$56

How much do bridge welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for bridge welding in California is $41.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.94 and $46.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by bridge welders during large infrastructure projects?

Bridge welders often work in demanding environments that require both technical expertise and strong safety awareness. A frequent challenge is welding in awkward or elevated positions, sometimes outdoors and exposed to weather conditions. Coordinating with other construction professionals, such as engineers and inspectors, is essential to ensure welds meet structural and safety standards. Additionally, bridge welders must pay close attention to detail, as the quality of their work directly impacts the integrity and longevity of the bridge. Adapting to tight project timelines and strict quality inspections is also a significant part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bridge welder?

To thrive as a Bridge Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a solid understanding of structural steel, often backed by a high school diploma and welding certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society). Familiarity with welding equipment, safety gear, and inspection systems is crucial for quality and compliance. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure both safety and precision on demanding construction sites. These skills are essential to guarantee the structural integrity and safety of bridges while meeting project deadlines and standards.

How much money do bridge welders make?

Bridge welders typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced workers or those in high-demand regions earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on certifications, experience, and the complexity of projects, often involving working in outdoor or challenging environments.

What is bridge welding?

Bridge welding is a specialized type of welding performed during the construction, repair, and maintenance of bridges. It involves joining metal components—such as steel beams and girders—to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the bridge. Bridge welders must follow strict safety and quality standards, often working in challenging environments and at significant heights. This work is critical to infrastructure projects and requires skilled professionals with thorough training in welding techniques specific to bridge construction.

What is the difference between Bridge Welding vs Structural Welding?

AspectBridge WeldingStructural Welding
CertificationsAWS D1.5, AWS D1.1AWS D1.1, AWS D1.2
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, bridgesIndoor/outdoor, buildings, infrastructure
Industry UsageTransportation, civil engineeringConstruction, commercial buildings
Job FocusLarge-scale bridge structuresBuildings, frameworks

Bridge Welding specifically involves constructing and repairing bridges, requiring specialized skills and certifications for large, outdoor structures. Structural Welding covers a broader range of steel frameworks in buildings and infrastructure. While both roles require similar certifications and safety standards, Bridge Welding focuses on outdoor, large-scale projects, whereas Structural Welding is more versatile across various construction types.

What are popular job titles related to Bridge Welding jobs in California? For Bridge Welding jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bridge Welding jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Bridge Welding jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Bridge Welding jobs? Cities in California with the most Bridge Welding job openings:
Infographic showing various Bridge Welding job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,421 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Non-Destructive Testing Inspector - Level III

Kleinfelder Inc

Cerritos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Kleinfelder rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

257th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

Job Description

Take Your Construction Career to the Next Level! 

Kleinfelder, a Forbes' Top Employer for Engineers in North America, is committed to a people-first culture, technical excellence, and creating opportunities where employees can thrive!

Are you ready to be challenged, make a difference, and experience professional growth in your career? Kleinfelder's Construction Services team is looking for you! From construction management and observation/inspection services to laboratory testing and materials and forensic engineering, our Construction Services market helps to develop and maintain America's infrastructure and supply chain and is a recognized industry leader with more than 25 accredited laboratories. 

Step into Your New Role 

Kleinfelder, Inc. is seeking an experienced ASNT NDT Level III Technician to support quality assurance and verification (QA/V) inspection and testing of materials and structural components for major transportation infrastructure projects. You will serve as a senior technical resource for our nondestructive testing program, overseeing ASNT SNT-TC-1A NDT Level II inspection staff for inspection of structural steel weldments and related materials at fabrication shops, manufacturing facilities, and field sites.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide ASNT Level III services in assigned NDT methods, including Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Penetrant Testing (PT), and Magnetic Particle Testing (MT).
  • Perform, evaluate, and interpret NDT examinations of structural steel weldments and other materials in accordance with AWS D1.5 (Bridge Welding Code), AWS D1.1, and applicable contract specifications, including Fracture Critical Member (FCM) provisions.
  • Develop, review, and approve NDT procedures and techniques; administer the company written practice in accordance with ASNT SNT-TC-1A, including training, examination, and certification oversight of Level II personnel.
  • Conduct Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) services in accordance with AWS D1.5 Annex K4.2, as applicable.
  • Travel to job sites, fabrication shops, and manufacturing facilities to verify adequate quality assurance measures and compliance with project requirements.
  • Review Quality Control Plans and inspection reports in a timely manner; prepare clear, accurate inspection and test documentation.
  • Maintain test equipment in good working order, calibrated with devices of accuracy traceable to national standards.
  • Provide direction to inspectors and technical staff regarding materials inspection requirements while maintaining standards, consistency, schedule, and cost objectives.

Required Qualifications

  • Current ASNT NDT Level III certification in two (2) or more of the following methods: Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Radiographic Testing (RT).
  • Minimum five (5) years of NDT experience.
  • Ability to provide copies of current ASNT Level III certifications upon hire (required for client qualification submittals).
  • Working knowledge of AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code, including FCM requirements and PAUT requirements (AWS D1.5 Annex K4.2).
  • Ability to read and interpret structural plans, shop drawings, welding procedure specifications, and contract special provisions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; proficiency preparing inspection reports and technical documentation.
  • Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to fabrication shops, plants, and project sites; ability to work in shop and field environments (standing, climbing, lifting up to [XX] lbs, working at heights as needed).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience performing quality assurance/verification (QA/V) or source inspection services for Caltrans Materials Engineering and Testing Services (METS) or a similar state DOT materials inspection program.
  • Current ASNT SNT-TC-1A NDT Level II certification in two (2) or more of the following methods: Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Radiographic Testing (RT).
  • Familiarity with Caltrans Standard Specifications, structural materials acceptance requirements, and source inspection documentation and reporting practices.
  • Experience supporting state DOT Quality Assurance and Source Inspection programs, including coordination with oversight engineers, fabricators, and project delivery teams under task order contracts.
  • Experience performing shop inspection at structural steel fabrication facilities including review of fabricator Quality Control Plans and Non-Destructive Testing Plans.
  • Current AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) per AWS QC-1.
  • Experience auditing fabricator quality management systems.
  • Experience working on bridge and major transportation structure projects in California.
  • Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) services in accordance with AWS D1.5 Annex K4.2 is a plus.
  • Digital RT certification / experience is a plus.

Following an offer, candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete employment reference checks, verification of professional licensure and/or educational credentials, a motor vehicle report (MVR), and a comprehensive background check.

Move Forward with Kleinfelder:Kleinfelder and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, has been connecting great people to the best work since 1961. We are engineers, scientists, and construction professionals providing solutions that improve our clients' transportation, water, energy, and other private infrastructure. As a responsive, cross-disciplinary team of bright, curious, and innovative problem-solvers, we are dedicated to doing the right thing, every day, on every project from over 110 offices in the US, Canada, and Australia.Connecting great people to the best work is our purpose - together, we deliver. 

Progress with an Employer that Values You 

Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, is an inclusive organization free from discrimination. We are a stronger organization when we are a diverse workforce and believe that through diversity, equity, and inclusion comes creativity, innovation, and unity. We are proud to offer the following: 

Benefits:Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid holidays.The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Pay Transparency Law. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Salary Range:$180,000 - $220,000 annually. 

Career Development:We are committed to investing in the professional development of our staff, offering each employee every opportunity to grow, develop, and take control of their career paths. We support these efforts through reimbursements for continuing education as well as many of the expenses associated with trainings and certifications, and opportunities for career development through our internal Mentoring Program. 

Equal Opportunity:Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans. (Compliant with the new VEVRAA and Section 503 rules) 

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES 

Please note that Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, will not consider or agree to payment for any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resume, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Kleinfelder.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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