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Level 2 Welding Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Boise, ID

$27 - $36.50/hr

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Location: Boise, ID Start Date: ASAP Job Summary: We are seeking ... NDE Level II (VT, PT) FootBridge is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive ...

... • Level II certifications in RT, PT, MT, VT, or UT are preferred. • Ability to document ... welding inspection procedures, applicable codes, and safety practices. • Ability to work ...

... • Level II certifications in RT, PT, MT, VT, or UT are preferred. • Ability to document ... welding inspection procedures, applicable codes, and safety practices. • Ability to work ...

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Level 2 Welding Inspector information

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$15

$26

$40

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

As of May 30, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Level 2 Welding Inspector, and why are they important?

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 are Level 2 Welding Inspectors?

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 is a CWI level 2?

A CWI Level 2 is a Certified Welding Inspector who has advanced certification allowing them to perform more complex inspections, including in-field testing and evaluations of welds and materials. They typically have additional training in specific welding processes and may work under the supervision of a Level 3 inspector or independently in certain environments.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, and 87% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Mechanical Welding Inspector

Mechanical Welding Inspector

SQA Services

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

For almost 30 years, SQA Services has been a premier leader in the provision of managed supplier quality services for audits, assessments, remote surveillance assessments, corrective actions, remediation, inspections, and engineering to manufacturers within all industries. We deliver services by deploying associates who are located throughout the United States and in 90+ countries around the world to your supplier sites. Our associates are expert quality assurance professionals with broad experience and local knowledge who can represent our clients on-demand and on-site faster than our competitors.
 
We are seeking a detail-oriented Welding Inspector to ensure the quality, compliance, and integrity of welded components and assemblies. This role is responsible for performing inspections, verifying documentation, and ensuring all materials and workmanship meet applicable standards, drawings, and specifications. This position with be on site 5 days a week, for 4-8 hours a day. This is a 3-6 month contract. 
Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform visual inspection (VT) of structural welds in accordance with AWS D1.1 acceptance criteria
  • Evaluate weld workmanship and surface condition
  • Identify weld discontinuities including:
    • Cracks
    • Undercut
    • Porosity
    • Overlap
    • Incomplete fusion indications
    • Arc strikes
    • Excessive reinforcement
    • Crater defects
  • Verify weld profiles, weld size, and contour requirements
  • Inspect fillet welds, groove welds, CJP and PJP welds
  • Welding Documentation Review

    • Review and verify approved WPS documentation
    • Confirm welder qualifications and continuity records
    • Verify welding processes and consumables comply with approved procedures
    • Review fabrication drawings and weld symbols
    • Ensure inspection requirements are properly flowed down

    In-Process and Final Inspection

    • Perform pre-weld, in-process, and final inspections
    • Verify fit-up, joint preparation, alignment, and cleanliness
    • Monitor workmanship during fabrication activities
    • Verify repairs and rework activities meet acceptance criteria
    • Coordinate with NDE personnel when required

    Reporting and Documentation

    • Generate inspection reports and nonconformance documentation
    • Document weld findings accurately and clearly
    • Provide objective disposition recommendations
    • Support corrective action and root cause investigations
    • Maintain inspection records and traceability documentation

    Supplier / Source Inspection Support

    • Perform source inspections at supplier facilities when required
    • Support supplier quality evaluations and audits
    • Communicate technical concerns professionally with suppliers and customers
    • Assist in process improvement and workmanship standardization activities
Required Qualifications:
  • Education / Experience

    • High school diploma or equivalent required
    • Technical training in welding inspection preferred
    • Minimum 3-5 years of structural welding inspection experience preferred
    • Experience inspecting structural steel fabrication and welded assemblies

    Technical Knowledge

    Strong working knowledge of:

    • AWS D1.1 requirements
    • AWS B1.11 visual inspection practices
    • Weld symbols and fabrication drawings
    • Welding processes:
      • FCAW
      • GMAW
      • SMAW
      • GTAW (preferred)
    • Structural steel fabrication practices
    • Weld gauges and inspection tools
    • Weld discontinuities and workmanship evaluation
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
  • VT Level II certification
  • NDE certifications (MT/PT preferred)
  • OSHA safety training
  • Structural steel fabrication experience
$35 - $40 an hour
Note: This position requires access to ITAR-controlled technical data and/or defense articles. As such, the candidate must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to comply with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants who do not meet these criteria will not be considered for this role.
 
SQA Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment is based on merit and qualifications, and is not influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status.
 
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