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Entry Level Welding Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Entry Level Welder

Paton, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

... welding procedures. * Inspect welded assemblies produced to ensure tolerance * Complete the ... * Entry-Level High-Volume Welding Operator * Candidate must adhere to all safety policies and ...

Conrad Shipyard

Structural Welder

Morgan City, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

... welding procedures, and templates. * Effectively read and use tape measure and other required measuring devices. * Effectively read and use weld gauges to inspect weld quality. * Pass entry level ...

SPC Mechanical Corporation

WELDER I

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

... entry-level welding tasks using Stick and TIG techniques to fabricate, assemble, and repair metal ... Inspect grooves, angles, or gap allowances, using a micrometer, caliper, and precision measuring ...

JGM

Entry-Level QC Inspector

Reading, PA

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * OSHA Certifications * Rigging & Signalperson Certifications * Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Certifications * Additional industry and quality-related ...

JGM

Entry-Level QC Inspector

Sinking Spring, PA · On-site

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * OSHA Certifications * Rigging & Signalperson Certifications * Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Certifications * Additional industry and quality-related ...

JGM

Entry-Level QC Inspector

Sinking Spring, PA · On-site

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * OSHA Certifications * Rigging & Signalperson Certifications * Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Certifications * Additional industry and quality-related ...

JGM

Entry-Level QC Inspector

Reading, PA

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * OSHA Certifications * Rigging & Signalperson Certifications * Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Certifications * Additional industry and quality-related ...

PCI Manufacturing LLC

Welder I

Atmore, AL

$15 - $21/hr

... an entry level welding position working under the daily direction of other senior welders. A ... Inspect equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or ...

Northeast Precast

Set Crew Welder

Vineland, NJ · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Repair machinery and other components by welding pieces and filling gaps * Test and inspect welded ... Proven experience as a welder, or entry-level welding ability with the mindset to be trained on ...

Verstela

Welder & Assembly

Garland, TX

$26 - $31/hr

... welding equipment and use hand and power tools safely and effectively • Inspect materials and ... Entry-level welders: $20.00-$25.00 per hour • Experienced MIG/Structural Welders $26.00-$31.00 ...

Aerotek

Entry Level Welder

Crystal Lake, IL

$45K - $49K/yr

MIG Welding Start Your Welding Career with a Growing Manufacturing Team We're hiring an Entry-Level ... Inspect finished products using visual checks and measurement tools * Load and unload parts onto ...

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Entry Level Welding Inspector information

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$15

$26

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

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding inspector in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.69 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.

How much do welding inspectors make hourly?

Welding inspectors typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level inspectors may start at the lower end, while those with advanced certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of welding codes, inspection tools, and safety standards.

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 a welding inspector typically requires completing relevant training, gaining experience in welding or fabrication, and obtaining certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). The process involves technical knowledge, attention to detail, and passing certification exams, which can take several months to a year depending on prior experience and training programs.

Can you become a Welding Inspector without welding experience?

Welding Inspectors typically need some welding knowledge, often gained through certifications like AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). While prior welding experience is not always mandatory, understanding welding processes and standards is essential for effective inspection. Entry-level inspectors may start with related training and certifications to qualify for the role.

What do I need to become a Welding Inspector?

To become a welding inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant training or experience in welding and inspection. Certification from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS), such as the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential, is often required or preferred. Knowledge of welding codes, standards, and inspection tools is essential for the role.

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.
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Entry Level Welding Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Entry Level Welder

Entry Level Welder

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Paton, IA • On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Kloeckner Metals rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Summary
This is an entry-level opportunity for individuals that desire to develop welding skills within a production environment. Success in the role requires a strong focus on maintaining productivity, quality, and safety. This position works within a team, working together to manufacture customer assemblies.
No experience is required. On the job training provided!
Job Functions
  • Fabricating and welding products to the drawings and production voucher specifications using the correct materials and to the appropriate welding procedures.
  • Inspect welded assemblies produced to ensure tolerance
  • Complete the appropriate quality documentation and production voucher information
  • Maintaining high quality results
  • Will be trained in; Welding, Grinding, Material Handling, and Packaging

Skills/Abilities
  • Candidate must always maintain a clean / orderly work area
  • Forklift and Crane operation will be required, prior experience is a plus, but not required

Minimum Requirements
  • Entry-Level High-Volume Welding Operator
  • Candidate must adhere to all safety policies and procedures in place at the facility
  • Candidate must complete all training sessions as required

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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