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Level 2 Welding Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Welding Inspector

Dallas, TX · On-site

$28 - $37.75/hr

The CWI and NDT Level II candidate shall be capable of and responsible for understanding and ... CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) * Applicable ASME Code Sections * AWS Codes and other Codes and ...

Certified Welding Inspector II

Olathe, KS · On-site +1

$35.75 - $42/hr

Certified Welding Inspectors spend the majority of their time working on projects performing ... NICET Level II certification in Geotechnical (Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist)

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Level 2 Welding Inspector information

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$40

How much do level 2 welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for level 2 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 a level 2 welding inspector?

Level 2 Welding Inspectors are professionals who assess and ensure the quality and safety of welded structures and components. They are qualified to perform inspections, interpret codes and standards, supervise welding processes, and document inspection results. Level 2 certification typically means they have advanced knowledge of welding techniques, testing methods, and defect identification, and can provide guidance to Level 1 inspectors. Their work helps prevent structural failures and ensures compliance with industry and safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a level 2 welding inspector?

To thrive as a Level 2 Welding Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of welding processes, codes, and standards, typically supported by certification such as CSWIP 3.1 or AWS CWI and relevant work experience. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors identify issues and ensure compliance with specifications. These capabilities are crucial to maintain safety, quality, and regulatory standards in welding projects.

What are some common challenges faced by level 2 welding inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Level 2 Welding Inspectors often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex welding codes, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring consistent communication between welders and engineering teams. To address these issues, inspectors benefit from continuous training on evolving standards, clear documentation practices, and proactive collaboration with project stakeholders. Building strong relationships with both welders and supervisors can also help streamline inspections and ensure that quality requirements are consistently met.

What is the difference between Level 2 Welding Inspector vs Level 1 Welding Inspector?

AspectLevel 2 Welding InspectorLevel 1 Welding Inspector
CertificationsCertified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent, plus additional trainingBasic welding inspection certification, often entry-level
Work EnvironmentMore complex projects, higher responsibility, and oversightInitial inspection tasks, supervised environments
ResponsibilitiesPerforming detailed inspections, interpreting codes, and ensuring qualityBasic visual inspections, assisting senior inspectors

The main difference between a Level 2 Welding Inspector and a Level 1 Welding Inspector lies in experience, certification, and scope of responsibilities. Level 2 inspectors handle more complex inspections and require advanced certifications, while Level 1 inspectors focus on basic tasks and often work under supervision.

More about Level 2 Welding Inspector jobs

What states have the most Level 2 Welding Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Level 2 Welding Inspector jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Level 2 Welding Inspector jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Level 2 Welding Inspector jobs are:

Infographic showing various Level 2 Welding Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Certified Welding Inspector, NDE (Launch)

SpaceX

Cape Canaveral, FL • On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

CERTIFIED WELDING INSPECTOR, NDE (LAUNCH)

The NDE Operations organization at SpaceX is an interdisciplinary team that is committed to providing high-quality inspections of flight components and production assemblies. The breadth of exposure as an NDE Level II Inspector is immense, as the organization is responsible for a large diversity of inspection types across Falcon, Dragon, Starship, and Raptor programs. You will have the ability to engage with the process to provide continuous improvement to execute on the mission to make humanity interplanetary.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Perform internal and external inspections to determine if a weldment/structure meets the acceptance criteria of a specific code, standard, or document
  • Interpret codes and specifications in accordance with the drawing requirements
  • Use a computer to compile and submit data of acceptance or rejection of inspections, as well as for inter-office communications
  • Recommend and approve repairs as well as perform visual inspection of work in progress and completed work
  • Monitor welding processes such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux cored arc welding (FCAW), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), and plasma arc welding (PAW) to ensure they are performed in accordance with qualified procedures
  • Verify and document welder qualifications
  • Verify the compliance of base metals with the applicable specifications
  • Appraise welding joint designs and joint preparations for compliance with drawing
  • Verify proper fit, cleanliness, and environmental conditions
  • Verify tack weld quality
  • Verify preheat and interpass temperatures
  • Assure the proper control and handling of welding consumables
  • Verify the interpass and final cleaning
  • Assure product conformity to drawings and specifications
  • Verify cleanliness and weld surface quality
  • Oversee NDT examinations, proof, and mechanical testing if required
  • Oversee repair activities
  • Verify the proper performance of post-weld heat treatments
  • Confirm adequate documentation of fabrication and inspection activities
  • Assist in training and developing of other teammates
  • Support the development of NDE inspection techniques for complex geometries
  • Interpret and review engineering drawings as required
  • Interpret, evaluate, communicate, and report findings to production and engineering teams
  • Conduct vendor surveillance audits of welding and inspection work as needed

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • Nondestructive Evaluation Level II certification in line with ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance in one of the following methods: Radiography (RT), digital radiography (DR), dye penetrant (PT), visual inspection (VT), computed radiography (CR), phase array (PAUT), ultrasonic (UT), ultrasonic shear wave (UTSW), or magnetic particle (MT)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Current American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification
  • 2+ years of experience as a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
  • Extensive knowledge of industry standards including ABS, AWS, and ASME
  • Working knowledge of surface and subsurface NDE methodologies
  • Nondestructive Evaluation Level II certification in line with ASNT TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance in Eddy current (ET)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to lift 25lbs unassisted, bend, stretch, stand for extended periods of time, climb stairs, reach, twist, sit, and walk
  • Must be willing to work overtime and/or on weekends to meet critical deadlines if needed
  • Ability to pass Space Force background check for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg
  • Ability to travel to other SpaceX locations as needed (up to 50%)

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US