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Entry Level Welding Inspector Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Fleet Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Perform inspections and maintenance documentation * Complete welding repairs as needed * Follow all ... Tool program available for entry-level technicians * Career growth opportunities and ongoing ...

Perform inspections and maintenance documentation * Complete welding repairs as needed * Follow all ... Tool program available for entry-level technicians * Career growth opportunities and ongoing ...

Performs the appropriate inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance on processing and ... Must have basic mechanical aptitude and general industrial maintenance to include: stick welding ...

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Entry Level Welding Inspector information

See Colorado salary details

$16

$27

$42

How much do entry level welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding inspector in Colorado is $27.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level welding inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Entry-level welding inspectors often encounter challenges such as understanding complex welding codes, adapting to various inspection environments (e.g., construction sites, fabrication shops), and effectively communicating findings to experienced welders and supervisors. It's important to proactively seek mentorship from senior inspectors, regularly review relevant standards, and participate in hands-on training to build confidence. Clear communication and attention to detail are crucial for success, as well as being open to feedback and continuous learning.

What is the difference between Entry Level Welding Inspector vs Welding Inspector?

AspectEntry Level Welding InspectorWelding Inspector
CertificationsBasic certifications like AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Level I or IITypically requires CWI certification and more experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in manufacturing, construction, or fabrication sitesMore complex projects, possibly supervisory or specialized roles
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in various industries using welding standardsEstablished inspectors with advanced skills in similar industries

In summary, Entry Level Welding Inspectors are beginners with basic certifications working under supervision, while Welding Inspectors have more experience, certifications, and handle complex inspections independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Welding Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Welding Inspector, you need a fundamental understanding of welding processes, basic metallurgy, and inspection standards, typically supported by a high school diploma and completion of a welding inspector training course such as AWS Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI). Familiarity with inspection tools, measurement devices, and documentation systems is essential for accurate assessments. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication help you identify defects and collaborate with welders and supervisors. These skills are crucial for ensuring weld quality, safety compliance, and the integrity of finished structures.

How hard is it to become a welding inspector?

Becoming an entry-level welding inspector requires gaining knowledge of welding processes, codes, and standards, often through technical training or certification programs. Typically, candidates need to pass certification exams such as the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) and acquire some experience in welding or inspection work, which can take several months to a few years depending on prior background and training efforts.

Can you become a welding inspector without welding experience?

Entry level welding inspectors typically do not need prior welding experience, but they must understand welding processes and codes. Certification programs like the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) often require knowledge of welding techniques, and some employers may prefer candidates with technical or trade school backgrounds. On-the-job training is common to develop inspection skills and familiarity with tools and standards.

How to get into weld inspection?

To become a weld inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in welding inspection, such as the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential. Gaining experience in welding or fabrication and understanding relevant codes and standards are also important for entry into the field.

What are entry level welding inspectors?

Entry level welding inspectors are professionals who examine welded joints and structures to ensure they meet specific safety and quality standards. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced inspectors and are responsible for visually inspecting welds, recording results, and learning to use testing tools and gauges. Their main goal is to help ensure that welding work is performed according to industry codes and client specifications, which is crucial for safety and reliability. Entry level inspectors often work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. Over time, they may pursue further certifications to advance their careers.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Entry level welding inspector roles typically do not start at $50 an hour; higher-paying welding jobs such as certified welders, welding supervisors, or specialized welders in industries like oil and gas or aerospace can earn $50 or more per hour. These positions often require certifications, experience, and knowledge of specific welding techniques and safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding Inspector jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Welding Inspector jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welding Inspector jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welding Inspector jobs in Colorado are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding Inspector job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,332 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Public Works Engineer Technician I - Permitting Inspection

Public Works Engineer Technician I - Permitting Inspection

Weld County

Greeley, CO

$29.30 - $38.10/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Weld County rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 832 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Compensation Range$29.30 - $38.10

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Job Description SummaryThis position is an entry level construction inspector. Inspections will include but not be limited to roads (gravel and paved), utilities, storm water detention, oil and gas facilities, etc. and may be performed pre, post or during construction activity. Inspection documentation such as field logs, inspection reports, traffic control plans, measurements, calculation of quantities will be required. Technical adequacy of work is reviewed upon completion. Non-routine work may be reviewed in process by supervisor.

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Job Description

Inspection - 50%

  • Apply engineering techniques in design, testing, maintenance, construction, and safety to Weld County processes and inspection.
  • Apply decision making in the field regarding construction documents, agreements, design, testing, permitting, and maintenance to determine if changes are necessary.
  • Apply County Code and Policy, CDOT Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction, AASHTO, and any other applicable reference manuals as a source of regulations to assignments and county service issues.
  • Apply County policies, rules and regulations to assignments and customer service issues.
  • Read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
  • Solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

Communication and Coordination - 40%

  • Coordinate and communicate land use and development construction information with other Public Works Divisions and County Departments.
  • Efficiently and concisely communicate verbally, in written reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
  • Effectively present information including field logs, inspection reports, and construction documents to management, public groups, other agencies, and/or boards.
  • Manage scheduling conflicts for manager.

Other Duties as Assigned - 10%

  • Snow desk rotation and responsibilities may be included.
  • Follow policies and procedures, the Weld County Code of Conduct and adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines and appropriate release of information outlined in both.
  • Not all duties mentioned may be applicable to every position, and the examples provided do not encompass all possible duties that may exist within this job classification. Other duties as assigned.
  • Percentages of time in the above job duty categories may fluctuate.
  • Perform specialized work and design plan evaluation of substantial variety (i.e., roads, utilities, storm water detention, etc.) and complexity based on the size of the project. Assume complete responsibility of valuable equipment including County owned assets as assigned, such as truck, laptop, iPad, and phone and construction inspection equipment, ensuring that they are locked and secure.

Required for All Jobs

  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Complies with all policies and standards

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Required Qualifications

Required Education

  • High School Diploma/GED

Required Work Experience

  • 1 yearexperience in a civil construction or engineering work environment.

or

  • Associate degree with construction inspection and/or management job knowledge may be substituted for the prior experience.

or

  • Any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be accepted.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to read design and construction plans and provide infrastructure management support.

General understanding of all phases of construction inspection including, but not limited to soils, asphalt, concrete underground and above ground utilities, traffic control procedures, and reclamation procedures.

Geotechnical testing and materials knowledge.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.

Demonstrated knowledge of coordinate geometry and mathematical understanding of horizontal and vertical curves.

Ability to interpret and implement a variety of instructions furnished in written and oral form.

Candidate must pass background check prior to employment start date.

Candidate must pass a substance use screening prior to employment start date.

This position will participate in random substance use screening.

Candidate must pass a physical demands evaluation post offer screen compatible to this position.

Licenses and Certifications

  • Valid regular Colorado driver's license or ability to obtain by employment start date. Valid driver's license must be obtained throughout employment.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, occasionally lift, move and/or pull 50 plus pounds up to 61 pounds. The employee will frequently stand, walk, and sit. The employee will occasionally climb, squat, crawl, stoop, kneel, carry, and reach overhead. Employee will regularly perform the following: reach angularly, wrist flexion/extension, elbow flexion/extension, supination/pronation, and grasp. Specific vision abilities required by this job title include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts and in outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to hazards, temperature change, fumes or airborne particles and vibration. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to extreme heat and cold temperatures. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.


This position is non-exempt from the minimum wage and overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is therefore eligible for overtime pay.
As an applicant for this position, you should be aware of Senate Bill 19-085, the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. The act requires employers to announce the pay range for job openings.

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Use the link below to get a closer look at the generous benefits offered:

https://www.weld.gov/Government/County-Information/Join-Our-Team/Employee-Benefits

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Weld County is an equal employment opportunity employer. We ensure that all employment practices are conducted without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, protected veteran status or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. Weld County pledges to uphold a work environment free from discrimination and harassment, promoting fairness and dignity for all employees. We actively take affirmative action to comply with nondiscrimination policies and invite qualified individuals in need of reasonable accommodations to contact our Human Resources Department athumanresources@weld.govor(970) 400-4234.


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