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Level 1 Welding Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

E2 Consulting Engineers Inc

Welding Inspector

Matteson, IL · On-site

$43.10/hr

Welding Inspector Job Locations US-IL-Matteson, IL ID IL-6205 Category Inspectors Type Full Time ... ANST-SNT-TC-1A Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)-Level 1. * ANST-SNT-TC-1A Liquid Penetrate (PT)-Level ...

2020 Inspections

CWI Welding Inspector

Manhattan, NY

$31.25 - $42.25/hr

Join our team as a CWI AWS Certified Welding Inspector and take your career to the next level. We offer a dynamic and challenging work environment, along with a competitive salary and benefits ...

Actalent

Certified Welding Inspector

Springfield, MO

$30 - $35/hr

Knowledge of AWS D1.1 welding codes and structural steel standards. * Ability to perform welding inspections, quality assurance reviews, and documentation. * Experience reviewing fabrication drawings ...

New

2020 Inspections

CWI Welding Inspector

Manhattan, NY

$31.25 - $42.25/hr

Join our team as a CWI AWS Certified Welding Inspector and take your career to the next level. We offer a dynamic and challenging work environment, along with a competitive salary and benefits ...

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Level 1 Welding Inspector information

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How much do level 1 welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for level 1 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Level 1 Welding Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Level 1 Welding Inspector, you need foundational knowledge of welding processes, codes, and standards, typically validated by a relevant certification such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Level 1 or equivalent. Familiarity with inspection tools like calipers, weld gauges, and nondestructive testing (NDT) equipment is essential. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication help inspectors accurately document findings and interact with welders and supervisors. These skills ensure weld quality and safety compliance, reducing defects and risks in fabrication and construction projects.

How much does a welder inspector make a year?

A Level 1 Welding Inspector typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Certifications such as AWS or ASNT can influence salary levels, and inspectors often work in industrial or construction environments with standard daytime schedules.

What are Level 1 Welding Inspectors?

Level 1 Welding Inspectors are entry-level professionals responsible for visually inspecting welds to ensure they meet specified codes and standards. They assist in monitoring welding processes, recording inspection results, and reporting any defects or non-conformities to supervisors. Level 1 inspectors typically work under the guidance of more experienced inspectors and may be required to complete specific training or certifications, such as those from the American Welding Society (AWS). Their role is crucial in maintaining safety and quality in welded structures and components.

Are welding inspectors in demand?

Welding inspectors are in steady demand across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy, especially as safety standards and quality control become more stringent. Certified inspectors with knowledge of welding codes and inspection tools are sought after, and employment opportunities tend to grow with infrastructure and industrial development.

What are the levels of welding inspector?

Welding inspectors typically have three levels: Level 1 (entry-level), Level 2 (qualified inspector with more experience and certifications), and Level 3 (senior inspector or supervisor). Advancement depends on experience, certifications such as AWS or ASME, and demonstrated skills in inspection techniques and codes.

What are some common challenges faced by Level 1 Welding Inspectors during site inspections?

Level 1 Welding Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in environments with limited access or difficult weather conditions, which can make inspections physically demanding. They may also need to communicate findings clearly with both welders and supervisors, ensuring that any defects are properly documented and addressed. Additionally, balancing multiple inspections while adhering to strict safety and quality standards requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Collaboration with other team members is essential to ensure compliance with codes and client specifications.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

A Level 1 Welding Inspector typically earns between $20 and $30 per hour, but experienced inspectors with certifications and specialized skills can earn around $50 an hour or more. Higher-paying welding-related roles, such as certified welders working in construction, manufacturing, or pipeline industries, may also reach or exceed this rate depending on experience and location. Advanced certifications and working in high-demand environments can increase earning potential for welding professionals.
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What cities are hiring for Level 1 Welding Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Level 1 Welding Inspector job openings:
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Level 1 Welding Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Level 1 Welding Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Welding Inspector

Welding Inspector

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Matteson, IL • On-site

$43.10/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
E2 Consulting Engineers (E2) is a professional services firm established in 1988 specializing in a full spectrum of engineering services including, project engineering and design, federal base operations and infrastructure support services, gas pipeline construction and inspection services, environmental consulting and remediation, and information technology services. At E2, we value safety, innovation and collaboration, and we are dedicated to excellence.
Overview
The Welding Inspector must assure proper welding procedures are qualified and utilized, radiographers are certified, welders are qualified, sound welds are produced, and proper documentation is maintained to include MTRs, detailed as-builts and weld mapping. These activities must be performed in accordance with the appropriate Company specifications and the approved for construction drawings.
Responsibilities
Welding Inspectors shall perform each of the tasks set forth in this Section, as required.
  • At least once per day, verify that the proper welding procedure is used by the Other Contractors for each Project and that the Other Contractors' welders are adhering to the parameters in the designated weld procedure. Each Weld Inspector shall keep a log of these inspections that will be part of the final records provided to the Company by the Weld Inspectors.
  • Verify every Other Contractors' welder used for construction is properly qualifiedin the procedures they are to utilize per the Company qualifications and procedures.
  • Verify that the Other Contractors' radiographers' certifications are current and correct, the radiographic procedure is qualified, the qualified radiographic procedures are used, the quality of the radiographs is acceptable and the radiographic crew maintains proper documentation.
  • Maintain pipe stencil information, including pipe number, wall thickness, grade and heat numbers and such information is recorded for any pipe joint that is cut.
  • Coordinate with Other Contractor(s) performing Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) inspection to verify each weld is properly tested and passed prior to backfill. Each Weld Inspector shall notify Company of any delays in construction that Other Contractors' NDT crews may cause.
  • Assign a unique number to each welder on each Project to be used as a stencil number. Each Weld Inspector is to keep a log of each Other Contractor welder, his/her unique stencil number, and the welder's qualifications. The log should be available on-site at all times and each Weld Inspector shall verify that Other Contractor welders are correctly marking field welds with assigned stencil number.
  • Centralized weld log for the entirety of each Project shall be maintained by the Chief Weld Inspector.
  • Verify that each weld on each Project has a unique (x-ray) number assigned and is identified on final weld maps, recorded on film / digital imagery and NDT reports

Prior to ALL backfill, HDD pull-through, or jack and bore each Weld Inspector shall perform the following:
  • Visually inspect each weld joint to verify that a sound weld is produced atevery joint, the correct qualified welding procedure is being utilized and only qualified welders are performing the welding.
  • Verify that Other Contractor(s) performing NDT has examined every weld joint for compliance to API 1104 specs and make sure every weld passes or is repaired and then subsequently passes NDT.

Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • Minimum of three (3) years weld inspection experience on construction projects for natural gas transmission pipelines.
  • Knowledge and Familiarity of API Standard 1104.
  • AWS/CWI or CPWI welding inspection certification.
  • Required Operator Qualifications (per Section 11.2).
  • Weld Observer and Inspection Training.
  • Knowledge and experience interpreting Radiographic Films.
  • OSHA Competent Person.
  • ANST-SNT-TC-1A Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)-Level 1.
  • ANST-SNT-TC-1A Liquid Penetrate (PT)-Level 1.
  • Word and Excel Computer skills.

Benefits
E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off.
Wage Data Per State Requirements
This position pays $43.10 an hour depending on experience.
Local Candidates only
No
Drug Free Workplace
E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. is a Drug Free Workplace. After accepting an offer of employment, applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug testing, and/or fit-for-duty physical examination. Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana Metabolites (THC), Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). As a federal contractor, E2 cannot permit employees in certain positions to use medical marijuana, even if prescribed by an authorized physician.
Solicitation
Please no solicitation of any kind from agencies, staffing, or recruiting firms.
EEO Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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