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Contract Welding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SGS is currently looking for a Welding/Mechanical Inspector for some contract work in Casper ... This is not a full-time contract but some intermittent quality assurance work which will vary based ...

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in industrial field inspection, welding and ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Los Angeles, CA. Pay and ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Escondido, CA · On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67K - $80K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

Welder - Hiring Now

San Diego, CA · On-site

$58K - $75K/yr

... contracts. Selected candidate will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located ... Candidate must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through qualification ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Welding information

See California salary details

$24

$41

$56

How much do contract welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract 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 is the difference between Contract Welding vs Pipe Welding?

AspectContract WeldingPipe Welding
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentVarious sites, including construction, manufacturing, maintenancePrimarily on pipelines, oil & gas, industrial plants
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, maintenance projectsOil & gas, water, and gas pipeline industries
Job ScopePerforming welds on different materials and structuresSpecialized welding on pipes and pipelines

Contract Welding involves performing welds across various industries and structures, often on different materials, while Pipe Welding focuses specifically on welding pipes, mainly in the oil, gas, and pipeline sectors. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Welder, you need proficiency in various welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a relevant welding certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as safety systems like OSHA regulations, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality, safe welds that meet project specifications and deadlines across diverse work environments.

What is contract welding?

Contract welding is a service where a welder or welding company is hired on a contractual basis to complete specific projects or tasks for a client. This can include anything from fabricating metal structures to repairing equipment. Contract welders may work on-site at a client’s location or in their own workshops, depending on the project requirements. This arrangement allows businesses to access specialized welding skills without committing to hiring full-time staff. It is commonly used in industries like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding.

How does a contract welder typically collaborate with other professionals on a job site?

Contract welders frequently work alongside other tradespeople such as fabricators, engineers, and project managers. Effective communication is essential for staying aligned with project specifications and timelines, especially as changes or challenges arise on the job. Welders are often responsible for interpreting blueprints and coordinating with other teams to ensure their work integrates seamlessly with broader construction or manufacturing processes. Building strong working relationships can help prevent delays and promote a safe, efficient work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in California?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Welding jobs in California?

For Contract Welding jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Welding jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Welding jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Welding jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Welding job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,421 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Welding Inspector

ENGICON CM

Alhambra, CA • On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement

Desired Qualifications:
Current American Welding Society Certification as a Certified Welding Inspector, or Senior Certified Welding Inspector, with a minimum of 10 years experience, and holds a current International Code Council (ICC) Welding Certificate and an ICC High Strength Bolting Certificate.
  • Familiarity with, and a working knowledge of the welding codes from the American Welding Society (AWS), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), American Petroleum Institute (API), and American Water Works Association (AWWA). 
  • Familiarity with Caltrans Standard Specifications and Standard Special Provisions pertaining to welding.
  • 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 of Department Section Heads, Area Supervisors, or consultant Construction Managers Welding Inspectors will be assigned to bridge construction, bridge seismic retrofit, retaining wall, water tank, water line and other projects during and in support of welding operations as needed for quality assurance.
  • Review Welding Quality Control Plans prepared by contractors.
  • Perform welding quality assurance inspection. Such inspection will typically supplement contractor performed quality control inspection required in the Special Provisions. Verify compliance with the requirement of the contract documents.
  • Review Welding Reports prepared by contractors.