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Certified Weld Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Weld Inspector (CWI)

Crosby, TX · On-site

$28.75 - $38.75/hr

The Certified Weld Inspector will perform inspections of welded, lined, and coated assemblies to verify that they meet required standards. * Perform visual inspections of welded assemblies to verify ...

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Certified Weld Inspector information

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$15

$31

$45

How much do certified weld inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified weld inspector in the United States is $31.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified weld inspector?

To thrive as a Certified Weld Inspector, you need in-depth knowledge of welding processes, materials, codes, and standards, typically validated by a certification such as the AWS CWI. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) equipment, and documentation software is essential for accurate assessments. Attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and effective communication help inspectors ensure compliance and work well with teams on-site. These skills are crucial for guaranteeing the quality and safety of welded structures in various industries.

What is the difference between Certified Weld Inspector vs Welding Inspector?

AspectCertified Weld InspectorWelding Inspector
CertificationsAWS Certified Weld Inspector (CWI)May or may not hold CWI; often holds similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, construction, manufacturing sites overseeing weld qualityConstruction sites, fabrication shops, quality assurance roles
Industry UsagePrimarily in welding and fabrication industriesBroader, including construction and manufacturing

The Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) is a specialized certification focusing on weld quality and inspection standards, often requiring AWS certification. Welding Inspectors may have similar roles but might not hold the CWI credential, and their scope can be broader or less formalized. Both roles are vital in ensuring weld integrity in industrial settings, but the CWI designation signifies a higher level of certification and expertise.

What is a certified weld inspector?

A Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) is a professional who is responsible for inspecting and ensuring the quality and safety of welds in construction, manufacturing, and other industries. CWIs are trained and certified to assess welding processes, review welding procedures, and verify that welds meet specific codes and standards. Their role is crucial in preventing structural failures and maintaining compliance with industry regulations. To become a CWI, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam and meet experience and education requirements set by organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS).

What are some common challenges a certified weld inspector faces when working on large-scale construction projects?

Certified Weld Inspectors on large-scale construction projects often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines while ensuring all welds meet safety and quality standards. They must coordinate closely with welders, engineers, and project managers to address non-conformities and resolve technical issues promptly. Inspectors also need to stay updated on diverse welding codes and documentation requirements, as projects may involve multiple welding processes and materials. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential to maintain compliance and project progress.
More about Certified Weld Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Certified Weld Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Certified Weld Inspector job openings:
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Infographic showing various Certified Weld Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,492 per year, or $32 per hour.

Certified Weld Inspector/Instructor/Engineer

H3 Manufacturing Group

Schaumburg, IL

$85K - $95K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

* * * DIRECT Hire Only. No Recruiters. No Phone Calls * * *
Job Title: Certified Weld Inspector/Instructor (CWI) / Certified Weld Engineer
Job Type: Full-time, Day Shift
Location: Schaumburg, IL
  • This position requires ITAR compliance and may involve access to technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Sponsorship is not available now nor in the future.
  • Applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by ITAR.
Company Overview:
H3 Manufacturing is a leading integrated manufacturing solutions provider specializing in precision machining, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex welding, assembly, surface finishing, painting, and powder coating. With four state-of-the-art facilities spanning over 200,000 square feet across Illinois amp; North Carolina, we serve high-spec markets including power generation, healthcare, electrical power distribution, aerospace and defense, life sciences, and more.
Key Responsibilities:
The Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) / Instructor / Weld Engineer is responsible for ensuring all welded products meet customer specifications, applicable codes, and company quality standards while developing and improving the welding skills of production employees. This role combines technical inspection expertise with hands-on training, mentoring, and continuous improvement initiatives to support safe, high-quality, and efficient manufacturing operations.
Weld Inspection amp; Quality
  • Perform visual weld inspections in accordance with applicable AWS, customer, and internal quality standards.
  • Interpret welding symbols, engineering drawings, specifications, and applicable welding codes to ensure travelers, work instructions and jobs are scoped and set-up appropriately.
  • Verify compliance with approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), Procedure Qualification Records (PQR), and Welder Performance Qualifications (WPQ).
  • Identify welding defects, determine root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Document inspection findings and maintain accurate inspection records.
  • Support internal, customer, and third-party quality audits.
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve weld-related quality issues.
  • Assist in dispositioning nonconforming material and implementing corrective actions.
  • Monitor welding processes to ensure consistent quality and process capability.
Training amp; Instruction
  • Develop and deliver hands-on welding training for new hires and existing employees.
  • Evaluate welder proficiency and provide coaching to improve technique, quality, and productivity.
  • Conduct welder qualification testing and maintain qualification records.
  • Develop training materials, work instructions, and welding best practices.
  • Identify skill gaps and recommend development plans for welders.
  • Promote proper welding techniques, safety practices, and equipment care.
  • Serve as a technical resource for supervisors and production employees.
Lean amp; Continuous Improvement
  • Develop, qualify, and maintain welding procedures (WPS/PQR) in accordance with applicable codes and standards (AWS, ASME, API, ISO, etc.).
  • Design and optimize welding processes to improve quality, efficiency, and cost.
  • Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on improving welding quality and efficiency.
  • Analyze weld defects and quality trends to reduce scrap and rework.
  • Recommend improvements to fixtures, processes, consumables, and equipment.
  • Participate in new product launches and process validations involving welding operations.
  • Assist with continuous improvement projects related to welding operations and quality systems.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • REQUIRED: Current AWS Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) certification.
  • REQUIRED: Ability to execute and train on 6G Welds
  • Preferred: Certified Welding Engineer (CWE)
  • Minimum of 5 years of welding experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong knowledge of AWS welding codes and standards.
  • Experience interpreting blueprints, welding symbols, and engineering drawings.
  • Knowledge of welding processes including MIG, TIG, FCAW, and GMAW (as applicable).
  • Experience with welding codes and standards (AWS D1.1, ASME Section IX, API, ISO, etc.).
Skills
  • Strong communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency using standard inspection tools and measuring equipment.
  • Ability to prepare accurate inspection reports and training documentation.
  • Strong understanding of welding metallurgy and fabrication processes.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Ability to identify and troubleshoot welding defects.
  • Effective presentation and classroom instruction skills.
  • Strong organizational and documentation abilities.
  • Ability to work collaboratively across departments.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.
Experience:
  • Previous experience training or instructing welders.
  • Experience in a metal fabrication or contract manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality management systems.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Additional certifications such as Certified Welding Educator (CWE) or NDE certifications are a plus.
  • Experience with robot automation is not required but it is preferred.
  • Experience in welding fixturing, welding work sequencing and development/coaching of top welding attributes (i.e. heat transfer, back-gassing, heat mitigation methodologies, machine optimization for weld penetration with different materials and thickness.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for the duration of a 10-hour shift.
  • Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequently bend, twist, reach, stoop, and grasp.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate machinery and measuring equipment.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, noise, and varying temperatures.
  • Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Working Conditions
  • Manufacturing production environment.
  • Regular exposure to machinery, metal materials, and industrial noise.
  • Overtime and occasional weekend work may be required to meet production demands.
* * * Direct Hires ONLY. No Recruiters. No Phone Calls * * *
Pay: starting at $90,000/yr
Location Requirement: Schaumburg, IL
Benefits:
  • Retirement plan 401(k) with 401(k) match
  • Healthcare, Dental amp; Vision insurance
  • Flexible spending account or Health savings account option
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
H3 Manufacturing Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should email HR@H3mfgGroup.com.