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Metal Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harmon Scrap Metal

Inbound Metal Inspector

Athens, AL · On-site

$18/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Inbound Metal Inspector Join a Team That Recycles the Past to Impact the Future At Harmon Scrap Metal, we believe every load matters. Our mission is to empower people ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Honolulu, HI · On-site

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Portland, OR · Remote

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Tampa, FL · Remote

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Cleveland, OH · Remote

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$25/hr

The Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal Inspector is responsible for conducting detailed inspections of recyclable materials, ensuring compliance with industry standards, environmental regulations, and client ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

San Francisco, CA · Remote

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Portland, OR · Remote

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Othello, WA · On-site

We are a Swiss-based company with multiple locations across North America, seeking Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal freelance Inspectors to join our team. In this role, you'll conduct inspections for ...

Cotecna Inspections

Cargo Observer

Boston, MA · On-site

$25/hr

The Waste Paper/Plastic/Metal Inspector is responsible for conducting detailed inspections of recyclable materials, ensuring compliance with industry standards, environmental regulations, and client ...

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All JobsMetal Inspector Jobs

Metal Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do metal inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for metal inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for sheet metal workers?

Sheet metal workers, including metal inspectors, are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, manufacturing, and maintenance projects. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as infrastructure and industrial facilities expand, and skilled inspectors are essential for ensuring safety and quality standards in these industries.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Metal inspectors typically do not get paid per inspection but earn an hourly wage or salary, which can range from $20 to $40 per hour depending on experience, location, and industry. Some inspectors may receive bonuses or overtime pay for additional hours worked or specialized certifications such as AWS or ASNT may influence earnings.

Is welding inspection a good career?

Welding inspection is a valuable career within the metal inspection field, focusing on ensuring weld quality and safety through certifications like AWS CWI. It offers steady employment opportunities in manufacturing, construction, and industrial settings, often requiring knowledge of welding techniques and inspection tools. The role can provide good job stability and advancement potential for those with technical skills and certification credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metal Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metal Inspector, you need expertise in metallurgy, inspection techniques, and a solid understanding of manufacturing standards, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) tools, measurement instruments like micrometers and calipers, and relevant certifications such as ASNT NDT Level I/II are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong communication are vital soft skills for accurately identifying defects and reporting findings. These competencies ensure product quality, compliance with safety standards, and the reliability of metal components in critical applications.

What are some common challenges faced by Metal Inspectors during the quality assurance process?

Metal Inspectors often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle defects in materials, maintaining accuracy under time constraints, and adapting to evolving inspection technologies. They must stay up-to-date with industry standards and effectively communicate findings to both production teams and supervisors. Additionally, working in noisy or physically demanding environments requires attention to safety protocols and personal protective equipment to ensure a thorough and safe inspection process.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the field of metal inspection, senior or specialized inspectors such as quality control managers or those with advanced certifications like AWS or ASNT tend to earn the highest salaries. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries like aerospace or oil and gas can also increase earning potential for metal inspectors.

What are metal inspectors?

Metal inspectors are professionals who examine metal products, components, or assemblies to ensure they meet specified standards of quality, safety, and performance. They use a variety of tools and techniques—including visual inspections, measuring instruments, and testing equipment—to identify defects such as cracks, corrosion, or improper dimensions. Metal inspectors often work in manufacturing, construction, or fabrication industries, and play a key role in maintaining product reliability and compliance with regulations.

What is the difference between Metal Inspector vs Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician?

AspectMetal InspectorNon-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician
CertificationsTypically ASNT Level I or II, AWS certificationsOften ASNT Level I or II, specific NDT method certifications (ultrasound, radiography)
Work EnvironmentFactories, construction sites, manufacturing plantsIndustrial settings, aerospace, oil & gas, power plants
Job FocusInspecting metal parts for defects, ensuring qualityUsing NDT methods to detect flaws without damaging materials
Industry UsageManufacturing, construction, metal fabricationEngineering, aerospace, energy sectors

While both roles involve metal quality assurance, Metal Inspectors focus on visual and dimensional inspection of metal parts, whereas NDT Technicians use specialized testing methods to detect internal flaws without damaging the material. Both roles require certifications and are vital in manufacturing and industrial sectors.

More about Metal Inspector jobs
What states have the most Metal Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Metal Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Metal Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metal Inspector jobs are:
Metal Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metal Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Inbound Metal Inspector

Harmon Scrap Metal

Athens, AL • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Inbound Metal Inspector
Join a Team That Recycles the Past to Impact the Future
At Harmon Scrap Metal, we believe every load matters. Our mission is to empower people to recycle the past to impact the future, and that starts with the people who greet our customers every day.
We are looking for an Inbound Material Inspector who takes pride in protecting our operations, serving our customers, and helping create a safe, efficient, and positive work environment. This role is the first line of defense in ensuring only acceptable materials enter our facility while delivering an outstanding customer experience.
If you enjoy working outdoors, have strong attention to detail, and believe safety and service go hand in hand, we'd love to meet you.
What You'll Do
As an Inbound Material Inspector, you will:
  • Inspect all incoming scrap metal loads to identify prohibited, hazardous, or unacceptable materials.
  • Ensure incoming material meets company, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
  • Politely communicate inspection findings and educate customers on acceptable materials.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by greeting customers promptly and professionally.
  • Direct customers safely and efficiently throughout the yard.
  • Work closely with scale operators, equipment operators, buyers, and yard personnel to maintain smooth traffic flow.
  • Support unloading operations when needed while maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Assist other departments during busy periods and contribute wherever help is needed.
  • Help maintain a clean, organized, and professional yard appearance.
  • Immediately report safety concerns, damaged equipment, suspicious materials, or environmental hazards.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and wear required PPE at all times.
  • Represent Harmon Scrap Metal with professionalism and a positive attitude.
What We're Looking For
What Success Looks Like
A successful Inbound Material Inspector:
  • Prevents prohibited materials from entering the yard.
  • Creates a welcoming experience for every customer.
  • Helps maintain safe and efficient traffic flow.
  • Supports teammates without being asked.
  • Demonstrates professionalism in every customer interaction.
  • Protects the company through careful inspections.
  • Takes ownership of keeping the yard clean, organized, and safe.
Our Core Values
At Harmon Scrap Metal, we hire and promote people who live our values:
  • Safety - We protect ourselves, our teammates, and our customers.
  • Alignment - We work together toward common goals.
  • Accountability - We own our actions and results.
  • Adaptability - We embrace change and solve problems.
  • Trust - We do what we say we'll do.
  • Discipline - We consistently do the right thing, even when no one is watching.
Why Join Harmon Scrap Metal?
  • Competitive pay
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Team-focused culture
  • Paid training
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
  • Stable, growing company with opportunities to advance
Ready to Build a Career?
If you're looking for more than just a job and want to be part of a company that values safety, teamwork, and exceptional customer service, apply today and become part of the Harmon Scrap Metal team.
Harmon Scrap Metal is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Dependable with strong attendance
  • Positive attitude and willingness to help wherever needed
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in scrap metal recycling
  • Heavy equipment or industrial experience
  • Knowledge of common ferrous and non-ferrous metals
  • Experience identifying hazardous or prohibited materials

Salary Description
$18 hourly

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