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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 ...

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 ...

Carolina Heavy Steel

Welder/ Fitter I

Hollywood, SC · On-site

$21.25 - $26.75/hr

Ability to pass entry-level welding test. * Basic understanding of measuring tools. Hours * Monday ... Follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations. * Assist with inspections and quality ...

McCarthy Fabrication

Welder / Fabricator

Sanford, FL · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

We welcome applicants at all experience levels -- from motivated entry-level welders to seasoned ... Prepare materials by cutting, grinding, and fitting prior to welding. * Inspect completed welds for ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

HII

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL

Newport News, VA

$57K - $62K/yr

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Jul 24, 2026 Req ... inspection, fire watch, carbon arcing, and troubleshooting minor welding equipment problems. Watch ...

Northedge Steel

Be Seen First

Entry-level Welder

Yorktown, IN · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

No professional welding experience is required. We are willing to train motivated individuals who ... Inspect completed work for quality and accuracy. * Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

Talent Strategy

Welder / Fabricator

Hudsonville, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $22/hr

Job Title: Entry-Level Welder / Fabricator Location: Hudsonville, MI Shift: 1st Shift; 6am-4:30pm ... Inspect finished welds and parts for quality and accuracy * Maintain a clean and organized work ...

New

Aerotek

Entry Level Welder

Altamont, IL

$22/hr

Production MIG welding positions Perform welds on various steel products Read and interpret ... inspect welds Grind out welds Qualifications: Previous experience using a welder Benefits: Medical ...

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Entry Level Welding Inspector information

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

As of Jul 30, 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.

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.
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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Quality Control Inspector (2nd Shift)

Ascent Buildings

Portland, TN • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description


The Quality Welding Inspector supports the Quality Manager and manufacturing team in a structural steel fabrication facility.

  • Inspect production welds per code and company standards.
  • Inspect fit up and individual parts for dimensional acceptability.
  • Inspect coatings and finished product prior to shipment.
  • May inspect incoming raw materials.
  • Mark up non-conformance items for corrections.
  • Communicate with welders/fitters on appropriate repairs or problem areas.
  • Monitor welding parameters for compliance. Fill out non-conformance reports and communicate with production supervision as needed.
  • Daily reporting to Quality Manager on areas of concern, negative quality trends and written non-conformance reports.


Requirements


  • A current CWI issued from the AWS is highly preferred. Entry level CWI is ok. Verifiable years of experience in a QC position involving welding in lieu of CWI potentially may be considered.
  • Minimum of 3 years direct verifiable experience welding in a code environment. GMAW and SAW is a plus.
  • Ability to read and interpret structural drawings is a must.
  • Ability to perform dimensional inspections and verify layouts.
  • Competence with squares, tape measures, go / no go gauges, scales, and other measuring devices as assigned to use.
  • Physical ability to walk, stoop, stand on an active shop floor and maintain personal safety in daily activities.
  • Manage daily duties in fast paced environment with minimal supervision.
  • Must be capable of passing a vision acuity examination. Near vision acuity on a Jaeger J2 at 12” or greater distance with or without correction.
  • Must be able to read and interpret instructions and specifications. Must be able to produce written and coherent documentation on inspection forms.
  • Maintain professional attitude and communication with all team members.
  • Punctuality and the ability to work overtime as needed is required.

Desired Qualifications:

  • A current CWI issued from the AWS or willingness to obtain CWI at company expense within 12 months.
  • Prior experience with coatings inspection is desirable but not required. Training is available.
  • Experience with AWS D1.1 2015 / 2020, AWS D1.3, CWB standards.

Monday - Friday 3:30pm - 2:00am, overtime scheduled on Saturday as needed.

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