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Entry Level Welding Inspector Jobs in Rochester, NY

Heavy Mechanic II

Rochester, NY · On-site

$52K - $67K/yr

General Description This is an entry-level mechanic position involving responsibility for ... inspections on heavy-duty and medium-duty equipment; Performs minor welding as needed, including ...

Heavy Mechanic II

Rochester, NY · On-site

$52K - $67K/yr

Equipment Services Opening Date: 03/20/2026 General Description This is an entry-level mechanic ... inspections on heavy-duty and medium-duty equipment; * Performs minor welding as needed, including ...

... custom weld fabricators in the contract manufacturing industry. Our quality standards are ... Inspect truck and box van for damage prior to start of transport Requirements Minimum Qualification ...

... custom weld fabricators in the contract manufacturing industry. Our quality standards are ... Inspect truck and box van for damage prior to start of transport Requirements Minimum Qualification ...

... custom weld fabricators in the contract manufacturing industry. Our quality standards are ... Inspect truck and box van for damage prior to start of transport Requirements Minimum Qualification ...

Entry Level Welding Inspector information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$15

$25

$40

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

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding inspector in Rochester, NY is $25.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $32.26 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Welding Inspector jobs in Rochester, NY are:
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Heavy Mechanic II

$52K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


City Of Rochester (New York) rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 675 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

General Description This is an entry-level mechanic position involving responsibility for completing basic repairs and preventive maintenance to heavy duty trucks and equipment. Employees hired into this position will have some mechanic experience or education but require additional experience and on-the-job training in heavy equipment repairs in order to become proficient enough to be promoted to Heavy Mechanic I. CITY RESIDENCY PREFERRED BUT NOT REQUIRED Typical Work Activities Performs preventative maintenance on heavy-duty trucks and equipment, including but not limited to, lubrication, service and tune-up of diesel and gasoline engines; Repair or replaces tires as needed; Performs basic repairs to steering assemblies, cooling and hydraulic systems on heavy-duty trucks and other heavy equipment; Performs basic repairs to diesel and gasoline engineers; Performs New York State authorized inspections on heavy-duty and medium-duty equipment; Performs minor welding as needed, including electric arc welding; Repairs gasoline engines in compressors and light-duty equipment; Performs minor electrical repairs to heavy-duty equipment; Assists higher level heavy equipment mechanic personnel in more complex repairs to all types of heavy equipment.

Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or Equivalent, PLUS: Two (2) years of full-time paid experience as a mechanic performing repairs to medium, or heavy-duty motor equipment; (This includes vehicles with a minimum GVWR of 18,000 lbs. or more and contain systems or components such as diesel engines, air brakes, hydraulic equipment or other major components found on medium and heavy duty vehicles). OR Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in Automotive or Diesel Mechanics or closely related field, PLUS one (1) year experience in a paid mechanic position.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a New York State Class D driver's license at time of appointment. Possession of a New York State Class B Commercial Driver's License, without air brake restriction, within ninety (90) days after the time of appointment. This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this job.

Possession of a valid New York State Inspector's License within ninety (90) days after the time of appointment; Must own proper selection of tools necessary to make repairs to heavy-duty vehicles at the time of appointment, i.e., 1/4 to 1/2 inch standard and metric socket sets up to 1 1/2 inches/33mm, open-end wrenches up to 2 inches, metric tools, air impact tools 3/8 - 1/2 and 3/4 inch drives, tool box, etc.


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