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Visual Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conducts in process and final visual weld and dimensional inspections in accordance with AWS D1.1 * Verifies and maintains inspection and test status of product during all stages of manufacturing

Conducts in process and final visual weld and dimensional inspections in accordance with AWS D1.1 * Verifies and maintains inspection and test status of product during all stages of manufacturing.

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Visual Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do visual inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for visual 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.

What are Visual Inspectors?

Visual Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining products, materials, or equipment to ensure they meet specified standards and quality requirements. They use their eyes, sometimes aided by tools or magnification, to detect defects, inconsistencies, or non-conformities in items being produced or maintained. Visual Inspectors commonly work in manufacturing, construction, or quality assurance roles, where their main goal is to help maintain safety and quality by catching issues early. Their work is critical in preventing faulty products from reaching customers and in ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

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

To thrive as a Visual Inspector, you need keen attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inspection tools such as magnifiers, calipers, and sometimes computerized inspection systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you excel in identifying defects and reporting findings. These abilities ensure that products meet quality standards and minimize defects in manufacturing or production environments.

How much do quality inspectors earn?

Quality inspectors, including visual inspectors, typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced inspectors with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or aerospace sectors.

How does a Visual Inspector typically collaborate with quality assurance and production teams during the inspection process?

Visual Inspectors work closely with both quality assurance and production teams to ensure products meet established standards. They regularly communicate findings, report defects, and provide feedback to production staff, which helps address issues quickly and prevent recurring problems. Collaboration with quality assurance professionals is essential for implementing corrective actions and continuously improving inspection protocols. This teamwork fosters a proactive quality culture and ensures that all departments are aligned on product quality goals.

What does a visual inspector do?

A visual inspector examines products, materials, or structures to identify defects, damages, or irregularities using their eyesight and sometimes magnification tools. They ensure quality standards are met and may document findings, often working in manufacturing, construction, or quality control environments. Attention to detail and knowledge of inspection procedures are essential skills for this role.

What jobs are good for visual thinkers?

Visual inspectors are well-suited for jobs that require strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret visual information. Careers such as quality control inspectors, graphic designers, architects, and engineers often benefit from visual thinking skills, and proficiency with tools like CAD software can enhance performance in these roles.

What skills are needed for visual inspection?

Visual inspectors need strong attention to detail, good eyesight, and the ability to identify defects or inconsistencies in products or materials. They should also have good communication skills, basic knowledge of inspection tools and standards, and often require training or certification in quality control procedures.

What is the difference between Visual Inspector vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectVisual InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires OSHA safety training, basic inspection certificationsMay require specific industry certifications like ASQ CQI certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, construction sites, assembly linesManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and other production facilities
ResponsibilitiesInspect products visually for defects, ensure compliance with standardsOversee quality processes, perform inspections, document issues

Both roles focus on inspection tasks within manufacturing and construction environments. Visual Inspectors primarily perform visual checks for defects, while Quality Control Inspectors have broader responsibilities including process oversight and documentation. The roles often overlap, but Quality Control Inspectors typically require more comprehensive certifications and handle a wider scope of quality assurance activities.

More about Visual Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Visual Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Visual Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Visual Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Visual Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Visual Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Visual Inspector - CWI

Visual Inspector - CWI

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Neenah, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Acuren rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Position Summary

Acuren is seeking a CWI to support operations in Neenah, WI.

Responsibilities
  • At the direction of client, perform visual and non-destructive examination of static and dynamic pressure retaining equipment in accordance with CWI standards and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
  • Submit to client technically accurate reports documenting equipment condition
  • Provide client with technical recommendations for the repair, re-rate, replacement, and/or alteration of plant equipment, as required for safe operation within stated operating parameters for durations specified by client
  • Provide technical input to client as required for welding and metallurgical issues
  • Provide technical guidance, on a application of non-destructive examination techniques and procedures
  • Fully comply with all Acuren and client safe work practices and actively participate in all site safety initiatives
  • Willingness to travel if needed
  •  
Requirements
  • Certification of Certified Welding Inspector
  • 5 - 10 years' experience or 2+ years on site experience
  • Additional API plus
  • In-depth working knowledge of CWI and ASME standards
  • Experience working in direct support of petrochemical facility engineers
Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
Company Overview

Acuren is a trusted, single source provider of technology-enabled asset protection solutions used to evaluate the structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to delivering a Higher Level of Reliability, Acuren provides an unrivaled spectrum of capabilities including inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring services.

Our work is critical to the integrity and safety of industrial firms, including petroleum refinery, pipeline, power generation, pulp & paper, mining, pharmaceutical, aerospace and automotive industries. Acuren employs over 4,000 dedicated professionals supporting the mechanical integrity and inspection programs of the world's largest industrial segments.

Acuren is a market leader. Our formula for success is straightforward: be capable locally, with certified and well-equipped personnel supported by trained, experienced leaders. Continuing to build on a strong heritage of safety, quality and professionalism, Acuren strives to maintain incident free work environments, pursues advanced technical developments, and supports reliability programs that are valued by clients and employees. #LI-BE1

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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