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Per Diem Welding Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Per Diem Welding information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$23

$32

How much do per diem welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem welding in Reston, VA is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.52 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is per diem welding?

Per diem welding refers to welding jobs where workers are paid a daily allowance, known as 'per diem,' in addition to their regular wages. This allowance is meant to cover expenses such as meals, lodging, and travel when working away from home or on temporary assignments. Per diem welding positions are common in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and pipeline installation, where projects often require travel to various locations. These jobs can offer higher overall compensation due to the additional per diem pay, but they also typically involve more travel and time away from home.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem welder?

To thrive as a Per Diem Welder, you need proficiency in various welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, or Stick welding), a high school diploma or equivalent, and often relevant welding certifications. Familiarity with welding equipment, blueprints, and safety systems like OSHA regulations is critical. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication help individuals excel in diverse and changing job assignments. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality workmanship, safety, and reliability in short-term or project-based welding roles.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem welders, and how can they be addressed?

Per diem welders often face challenges such as adapting quickly to different job sites, tools, and team dynamics, since assignments can vary frequently. Managing inconsistent schedules and travel requirements can also be demanding, but staying organized and maintaining open communication with staffing agencies or employers helps. Building a strong professional network and keeping certifications current are key strategies for securing steady assignments and advancing in the field.

What is the difference between Per Diem Welding vs Contract Welding?

AspectPer Diem WeldingContract Welding
CredentialsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)
Work EnvironmentProject sites, often temporary or short-termProject sites, often short-term or long-term
Employer UsageEmployers pay daily rates, often for temporary projectsEmployers hire for specific contracts or projects
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for temporary, daily-rate welding jobsSeeking contract-based welding opportunities

Per Diem Welding involves working on temporary projects with daily pay rates, often in various locations. Contract Welding also involves project-based work but may include longer-term commitments. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but the payment structure and job duration differ.

How much do per diem welders make?

Per diem welders typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the work. They often receive additional benefits such as per diem allowances for travel and lodging, and may work on short-term or project-based schedules in various industrial environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Per Diem Welding jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Per Diem Welding jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Per Diem Welding jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Per Diem Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Per Diem Welding job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $48,170 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) - Fracture Critical Members (FCM)

HRV Conformance Verification Associates, Inc.

Arlington, VA • On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Location: Northeast, Southeast, and Mid-West United States
Schedule: On-Site (Project-Based)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $35 - $50 hourly, based on experience, certifications, and qualifications. Per diem and travel reimbursement may be available for qualifying projects.
About the Position
HRV Conformance Verification Associates, Inc. is seeking an experienced AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) with demonstrated Fracture Critical Member (FCM) inspection experience to join our growing team.
This position supports structural steel fabrication and bridge projects throughout the eastern United States, with a primary focus on Fracture Critical Members (FCM). The successful candidate will perform quality assurance inspections during all phases of structural steel fabrication to ensure compliance with project specifications, AWS standards, client requirements, and applicable DOT regulations.
The ideal candidate possesses extensive knowledge of AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code requirements, structural steel fabrication, and fracture critical inspection procedures. This role requires exceptional technical ability, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently while representing HRV professionally at fabrication facilities and project sites.
Primary Responsibilities
Welding Inspection (90%)
  • Perform quality assurance inspections during the fabrication of structural steel and Fracture Critical Members (FCM)
  • Inspect welding operations in accordance with AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code, AWS D1.1, project specifications, and client requirements
  • Verify welding procedures, welder qualifications, consumables, and fabrication processes
  • Inspect fit-up, weld preparation, welding operations, completed welds, and repaired welds
  • Review mill test reports, material certifications, Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), Procedure Qualification Records (PQR), and Welder Performance Qualifications (WPQ)
  • Identify welding discontinuities and document non-conforming work
  • Coordinate corrective actions with fabricators, contractors, project managers, and clients
  • Ensure compliance with project specifications, AWS standards, DOT requirements, and applicable quality standards
  • Prepare detailed daily inspection reports and supporting documentation
  • Maintain inspection equipment and calibration records
  • Promote and maintain safe work practices on active fabrication shops and project sites

Project Documentation & Administrative Responsibilities (10%)
  • Prepare and submit accurate daily and/or weekly inspection reports documenting work performed, inspection findings, and compliance with project specifications
  • Maintain organized inspection records, photographs, and supporting project documentation
  • Submit weekly timesheets and expense reports accurately and on time in accordance with company procedures
  • Participate in project meetings and communicate inspection findings with project managers, contractors, and clients as required
  • Assist with project closeout documentation and other inspection assignments as business needs require

Minimum Qualifications
  • Current AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification
  • Demonstrated experience inspecting Fracture Critical Members (FCM)
  • Strong working knowledge of AWS D1.5 Bridge Welding Code
  • Experience performing welding inspections in accordance with AWS D1.1
  • Minimum of 3 years of structural steel fabrication inspection experience
  • Valid passport
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, email, and internet-based reporting systems
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and access elevated work areas
  • Ability to prioritize multiple assignments while maintaining exceptional attention to detail
  • Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience inspecting complex bridge fabrication and Fracture Critical Member projects
  • Experience with state DOT or other government infrastructure projects
  • Familiarity with AASHTO, ASTM, and applicable DOT specifications
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification
  • Experience reviewing WPSs, PQRs, WPQs, and fabrication quality documentation
  • Ability to interpret structural drawings, welding symbols, and fabrication specifications
  • Ability to build positive working relationships with contractors, fabricators, project managers, and clients

Why Join HRV?
  • Competitive compensation with overtime opportunities
  • Per diem and travel reimbursement for qualifying assignments
  • Opportunity to work on high-profile bridge and infrastructure projects
  • Collaborative team environment
  • Professional development and certification support
  • Stable and growing professional services organization with over 22 years of industry experience
  • Nationwide and international project opportunities

HRV Conformance Verification Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.
HRV promotes affirmative action for minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
HRV is a smoke-free and drug-free workplace. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening in accordance with company policy.