1

Performance Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Certified Welding Inspector I

Bracey, VA ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

... performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and ... Overview TRC Companies is seeking a full-time Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) with AWS D1.5 shop ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Hampton, VA ยท On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

The position requires advanced welding and fabrication expertise, as well as the ability to ... Troubleshoot and resolve performance issues with mechanical systems and integrated equipment.

Continuous Improvement Specialist (Welding)

Verona, VA ยท On-site

$62K - $80K/yr

Track and report key welding performance metrics including First Pass Yield (FPY), defect rates, arc-on time, labor efficiency, consumable usage. * Track, monitor and report on the results of each ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Performance Welding information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do performance welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for performance welding in Virginia is $29.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $33.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is performance welding?

Performance welding refers to advanced welding techniques used to create high-quality, precise, and durable welds, often for applications that require superior strength and reliability. This type of welding is commonly used in industries like automotive racing, aerospace, and manufacturing where components must withstand extreme conditions. Performance welders use specialized equipment and materials, and they must have a deep understanding of various welding processes, metallurgy, and safety standards. Their skills ensure that welded joints meet strict specifications and performance requirements.

What is the difference between Performance Welding vs Structural Welding?

AspectPerformance WeldingStructural Welding
CertificationsAWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), AWS D1.1AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), AWS D1.1
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, quality controlConstruction sites, bridges, buildings
Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotiveConstruction, infrastructure projects

Performance Welding focuses on ensuring weld quality and adherence to standards, often in manufacturing or quality control settings. Structural Welding involves building and repairing large structures like bridges and buildings. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, their primary focus differs: Performance Welding emphasizes quality assurance, whereas Structural Welding emphasizes construction and structural integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by Performance Welding professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Performance Welding professionals often work on high-precision, custom projects such as automotive racing parts or aerospace components, where meeting tight tolerances and quality standards is critical. Common challenges include working with specialized metals, interpreting complex blueprints, and ensuring welds meet strict performance requirements. To address these challenges, welders should stay current with industry certifications, continuously improve their skills with advanced welding techniques, and collaborate closely with engineers and quality control teams. A strong attention to detail and proactive communication are also essential for success in this demanding environment.

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

To thrive as a Performance Welder, you need advanced welding skills, in-depth knowledge of metallurgy, and typically industry certifications such as AWS or ASME qualifications. Familiarity with specialized welding equipment, CNC machinery, and inspection systems is essential for precision and quality control. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are crucial soft skills that set top performers apart in this field. These abilities ensure high-quality, safe, and efficient fabrication of components in demanding industrial and performance-focused environments.
What job categories do people searching Performance Welding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Performance Welding jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Performance Welding job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,429 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Weld Program Manager/NDT Level III Examiner

Weld Program Manager/NDT Level III Examiner

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Portsmouth, VA โ€ข On-site

$34.75 - $47.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Epsilon Systems is seeking a full time Weld Program Manager/NDT Level III Examiner in Portsmouth, VA.
Summary: Prepares Welding, Brazing and NDT procedures for NAVSEA, AWS, ASME and ABS programs. Administers the Welder, Brazer and NDT training and qualification program. Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Welding, Brazing and Non-Destructive Testing associated with service craft, boat, ship, and submarine repair and modernization.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Reports to QA Director for all assignments and supervision
  • Administers/oversees the Welder, Brazer and NDT training, qualification and maintenance program
  • Responsible for management of the Welding/Brazing/NDT Programs through subordinate supervisors/managers.
  • Oversees and approves quality standards for structural and pipe material and equipment receiving, in-process and final inspection in accordance with company and contractual requirements.
  • Inspects and monitors work performed on government and commercial work items, specializing in weld and coatings inspections.
  • Reviews work packages prior to start-work for completeness, accuracy and compliance with technical specifications and customer requirements for welding, brazing and NDT.
  • Performs in-process work surveillances and conducts final work-package review after work-completion for welding, brazing and NDT.
  • Performs internal audits to monitor compliance with company procedures and performs external audits to evaluate supplier suitability for use.
  • Reviews status of in-process rejections and recommends appropriate corrective action.
  • Acts as a primary liaison with customers, vendors and various company departments for Welding/Brazing/NDT Program support.
  • Advises management of test trends, returns, vendor performance and audit results and corrective action needed.
  • Responsible for the training, motivation and discipline of assigned employees (when required).
  • Writes and administers qualification exams for Welders, Brazers and NDT Programs.
  • Develops quality and Workmanship standards for Welders, Brazers and NDT personnel.
  • Monitors compliance with company Quality Management System, Workmanship standards and Customer requirements.
  • Develops quality control and inspection procedures for inclusion in production Work-Packages and QA Work Books.
  • Defines test standards and specifies test equipment and procedures.
  • Reviews Technical Specifications and contract requirements to advise Bid Team of Welding, Brazing and NDT requirements to help evaluate company capabilities and support the Bid review
  • Reviews Technical Specifications and contract requirements during Work Package and QA Work Book development to provide guidance for Welding, Brazing and NDT technical requirements, PCP development and qualification needs.
  • Reviews Test and Inspection Plans (TIP) for structural/piping test and inspection requirements prior to release to production
  • Reviews completed weld, brazing and NDT objective quality evidence (OQE) for accuracy and completeness prior to certification
  • Provides Production technical guidance during accomplishment of projects.
  • Conducts Quality Assurance inspections, Audit and Surveillances for the Welding/Brazing and NDT Programs.
  • Works with customer QA representatives to coordinate inspection and acceptance activities.
  • Reviews QA control requirements with customer representative to assure compliance with requirements.
  • Reviews contractually required documentation for accuracy and completeness.

Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • 10 years of Management of Weld, Brazing and NDT Programs.
  • 5 years waterfront Weld/Braze/NDT Program Management for NAVSEA contracts.
  • 5 years waterfront Weld/Braze/NDT Program Management for Commercial contracts.
  • 5 years SUBSAFE/DSS-SOC experience (preferred)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Weld/Structural Engineer Degree or equivalent
  • NDT Level III Examiner Certification for VT, PT, MT and UT processes
  • NBPI or NACE Level I or higher inspector certification

ADA Notations:
  • Frequent standing, sitting, walking, handling, feeling with hands, reaching with arms.
  • Prolonged sitting and use of computer, (typing, keyboarding)
  • Regular communication (hearing/speaking).
  • Occasional stooping, kneeling, and crouching.
  • Occasional lifting up to 20+ pounds.
  • See details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  • Noise conditions range from very quiet to noise levels above 85db.

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.