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Entry Level Welding Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HII

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL

Newport News, VA

$57K - $62K/yr

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 22, 2026 Req ... inspection, fire watch, carbon arcing, and troubleshooting minor welding equipment problems. Watch ...

Top Cat Concrete

Be Seen First

Concrete Plant Maintenance Technician

Columbus, OH · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Knowledge of pneumatic systems * Entry level welding experience a plus, but not required * Ability ... Perform daily inspections of plant components and equipment to ensure proper functionality * Other ...

Stoke Space

NDT Inspector L2 - Eddy Current

Kent, WA · On-site

$32.11 - $48.16/hr

Collaborate directly with engineering, manufacturing, and welding teams to schedule inspections ... Dog friendly offices! Compensation Target Levels: * Entry-Level / Junior: $26.25 - $38.52

DUPONT INDUSTRIAL SERVICES INC

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Technician

Newport, KY

Service & Repair Technician - Welding Equipment Position Summary We are seeking an entry level Welding Equipment Service & Repair Technician to inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair a wide ...

Regal Rexnord

Welder

Cambridge, MD

$24/hr

... all entry-level welding components that range from similar to dissimilar metals and alloys ... Accuracy with alignment, dimensions, materials, number of components, and general inspection ...

Regal Rexnord

Welder

Randolph, WI

$20 - $26.25/hr

... all entry level welding components that range from similar to dissimilar metals and alloys ... inspection requirements. * Setup weldments per blueprint specifications. * Mig weld to blueprint ...

Regal Rexnord

Welder

Cambridge, MD · On-site

$24/hr

... all entry-level welding components that range from similar to dissimilar metals and alloys ... Accuracy with alignment, dimensions, materials, number of components, and general inspection ...

Hillenbrand

Welder

Sabetha, KS · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Inspect welds visually and with basic measuring tools, identify defects, and complete rework or ... Ability to perform entry-level welding tasks with guidance and follow standard work instructions.

DUPONT INDUSTRIAL SERVICES INC

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Technician

Newport, KY · On-site

Service & Repair Technician - Welding Equipment Position Summary We are seeking an entry level Welding Equipment Service & Repair Technician to inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair a wide ...

Hillenbrand

Welder

Sabetha, KS · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Inspect welds visually and with basic measuring tools, identify defects, and complete rework or ... Ability to perform entry-level welding tasks with guidance and follow standard work instructions.

HII

$57K - $62K/yr

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 22, 2026 Req ... inspection, fire watch, carbon arcing, and troubleshooting minor welding equipment problems. Watch ...

HII

$57K - $62K/yr

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 22, 2026 Req ... inspection, fire watch, carbon arcing, and troubleshooting minor welding equipment problems. Watch ...

Top Cat Concrete

Be Seen First

Concrete Plant Maintenance Technician

Columbus, OH · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Knowledge of pneumatic systems * Entry level welding experience a plus, but not required * Ability ... Perform daily inspections of plant components and equipment to ensure proper functionality * Other ...

L&L FABRICATION, INC

Welder 1

Douglas, WY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... is an Entry Level welding position within the L&L Fabrication family of welding shops. This ... Requirements Weld Test Requirement * 1G - FLAT Fillet GMAW or FCAW - Visual inspection and ...

Monterrey Metal & Iron

Welder Fabricator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Maintaining routine inventory supplies that are used for operating the welding unit via inspection ... Education and Qualification Entry level welder fabricators are expected to pass relevant technical ...

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Entry Level Welding Inspector information

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$15

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

As of Aug 28, 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 is an entry level welding inspector?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level welding inspector?

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.

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.

Are entry level welding inspectors in demand?

Entry level welding inspectors are in demand due to ongoing construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects that require quality assurance and safety compliance. The job often requires certifications such as AWS or ASME, and demand is expected to grow with industry standards emphasizing safety and quality control.

Are entry level welding inspectors in high demand?

Entry level welding inspectors are in moderate demand, especially in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy that require quality control and safety inspections. Certification in welding codes and familiarity with inspection tools like ultrasonic and radiographic testing can improve job prospects, as companies seek qualified inspectors to ensure compliance with safety standards.

How do I become an entry level welding inspector?

To become an entry-level welding inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training in welding processes and inspection techniques. Earning certifications such as the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent can improve job prospects, and gaining experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training is common in this field.

How hard is it to become an entry level welding inspector?

Becoming an entry-level welding inspector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in welding standards and inspection techniques. Certification such as the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is often preferred, and gaining hands-on experience with welding processes and tools can help ease the entry process.

How to get into entry level welding inspection?

To become an entry-level welding inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in welding processes and inspection techniques. Earning certifications such as the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent can improve job prospects, and familiarity with codes and standards like ASME or API is beneficial. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or related roles in welding or manufacturing also helps establish the necessary skills for entry-level inspection positions.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

MIG Welding Trainer starting at $60k/annually or more DOE

ANCHOR FABRICATION PARTNERSHIP LTD

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
The MIG Welding Trainer / Coach is responsible for developing and advancing the skills of entry-level welders (Level 1) to achieve Level 2 and Level 3 welding competency standards. This position combines hands-on welding expertise with coaching, mentoring, skills assessment, and performance development to improve weld quality, productivity, safety, and employee performance within a metal fabrication environment.
The successful candidate will deliver structured training, hands-on demonstrations, practical skills assessments, and ongoing coaching to ensure welders meet company quality standards, customer specifications, safety requirements, and industry best practices.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Internal Relationships: All Departments
External Relationships: Occasional and incidental contact with customers or prospective customers
Primary Responsibilities:
Training & Development
  • Develop and deliver structured welding training programs for Level 1 welders.
  • Provide classroom, demonstration, and hands-on welding instruction.
  • Demonstrate proper welding techniques, machine setup, fixture use, material preparation, and weld inspection methods.
  • Train employees on various welding positions, joint configurations, material types, and fabrication applications.
  • Develop individual training and development plans to support progression from Level 1 to Level 2 and Level 3 competency.
  • Identify skill gaps and provide targeted coaching, retraining, and corrective instruction.
  • Maintain current knowledge of welding processes, equipment, techniques, and industry standards.

Coaching & Mentoring
  • Provide one-on-one mentoring and hands-on coaching on the production floor.
  • Observe welder performance and provide timely, constructive feedback.
  • Build employee confidence, technical capability, and accountability.
  • Support new-hire onboarding and initial welding skill development.
  • Foster a positive learning environment focused on safety, craftsmanship, quality, and continuous improvement.
  • Serve as a technical resource and role model for welding employees.

Skills Assessment & Progression
  • Conduct welding tests, practical evaluations, and competency assessments.
  • Evaluate weld quality against company standards, specifications, and applicable welding procedures.
  • Maintain accurate training records, qualification results, skills matrices, and progression documentation.
  • Track individual employee development and identify opportunities for continued improvement.
  • Provide recommendations for advancement to higher welding levels based on demonstrated competency and performance.

Quality Improvement
  • Train welders to identify, prevent, and correct common weld defects, including:
    • Porosity
    • Undercut
    • Lack of fusion
    • Burn-through
    • Excessive spatter
    • Incomplete penetration
  • Partner with Quality and Production teams to reduce defects, rework, and scrap.
  • Reinforce best practices for weld preparation, fit-up, machine settings, and inspection.
  • Identify recurring quality issues and recommend training or process improvements.
  • Support standardization of welding techniques and work practices across the team.

Safety Leadership
  • Reinforce company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA requirements related to welding and fabrication.
  • Train employees on proper PPE, equipment operation, ventilation, fire prevention, and safe welding practices.
  • Promote hazard awareness, proper housekeeping, and safe work practices.
  • Lead by example and immediately address unsafe behaviors or conditions.
  • Participate in safety audits, investigations, and corrective actions as needed.

Production & Operational Support
  • Partner with Production leadership to identify workforce development needs.
  • Assist with workforce planning and welding skill assessments.
  • Provide production support during peak workloads or staffing needs when necessary.
  • Recommend process improvements that enhance productivity, efficiency, quality, and employee capability.
  • Assist in developing and maintaining standardized welding procedures, work instructions, and training materials.
  • Collaborate with supervisors, Quality, Engineering, and other departments to resolve technical or production-related issues.

Minimum Requirements:
Required
  • Minimum 5 years of MIG/GMAW welding experience in a manufacturing, fabrication, or industrial environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and other commonly used fabrication materials.
  • Strong knowledge of welding symbols, blueprints, fabrication drawings, and welding specifications.
  • Previous experience training, coaching, mentoring, or developing employees.
  • Ability to evaluate weld quality and identify common welding defects.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal and coaching skills with the ability to work effectively with employees at varying skill levels.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish strongly preferred.
  • Certified Welder through AWS, CWB, or equivalent certification.
  • Previous experience as a Welding Instructor, Trainer, Lead Welder, Lead Hand, or Welding Supervisor.
  • Experience developing training programs, skills matrices, competency assessments, or career progression plans.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Experience working with Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and related documentation.

Technical Skills
  • MIG/GMAW welding processes
  • Welding machine setup, operation, and troubleshooting
  • Blueprint and fabrication drawing interpretation
  • Welding symbols and specifications
  • Weld inspection and defect identification
  • Metal fabrication processes
  • Weld preparation and fit-up
  • Grinding and finishing techniques
  • Measurement and quality control tools
  • Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS)
  • Welding equipment and consumable selection
  • Basic troubleshooting of welding equipment and processes

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Success in this role may be measured through:
  • Number and percentage of welders successfully progressing from Level 1 to Level 2 and Level 3.
  • Reduction in weld defects, rework, and scrap.
  • Training completion and competency assessment rates.
  • Improvement in welding productivity and first-pass quality.
  • Safety compliance and reduction in preventable incidents.
  • Employee skill development and training effectiveness.
  • Employee retention and engagement within the welding team.
  • Successful implementation of standardized training and welding practices.

Environmental/Physical Requirements with or without Accommodation:
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds (23 kg).
  • Frequent bending, kneeling, reaching, pushing, pulling, and working in various positions.
  • Ability to work safely around welding equipment, fabrication machinery, heat, fumes, noise, and metal materials.
  • Ability to wear required PPE, including welding helmet, gloves, protective clothing, respiratory protection when required, hearing protection, eye protection, and safety footwear.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing/fabrication environment with varying temperatures and conditions.

Core Competencies
  • Technical Welding Expertise
  • Coaching & Mentoring
  • Training & Development
  • Quality Focus
  • Safety Leadership
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Teamwork & Collaboration
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Accountability & Leadership

All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.

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