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Weld Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$31.81 - $55.01/hr

Inspector - Welding Job Code: 39740 Job Location: Canoga Park Job Schedule: 2nd shift 9/80 ... Inspection responsibilities are supported by standard work and procedures. The inspection team is ...

Welder

Torrance, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Weld inspection for weld size, face, and root reinforcement, cracks, inclusions, and porosity. • Proficiency in pre-heating and post-heating of weld elements. • Ability to read and interpret ...

Welder

Torrance, CA

$22 - $26/hr

Weld inspection for weld size, face, and root reinforcement, cracks, inclusions, and porosity. • Proficiency in pre-heating and post-heating of weld elements. • Ability to read and interpret ...

Inspector - Welding Job Code: 39740 Job Location: Canoga Park Job Schedule: 2nd shift 9/80 ... Inspection responsibilities are supported by standard work and procedures. The inspection team is ...

Welding Inspector

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

Previous inspection or trade experience in inspection or performing welding on bridge construction or bridge seismic retrofit projects. Roles and Responsibilities: * Under the oversight and direction ...

Welding Inspector

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

Previous inspection or trade experience in inspection or performing welding on bridge construction or bridge seismic retrofit projects. Roles and Responsibilities: * Under the oversight and direction ...

Mechanical QAR

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Mechanical QAR - Weld Inspection FST Technical Services is your global partner in the Semiconductor, Microelectronics, Pharmaceutical and other Life Science Industries ! Come join an awesome team in ...

Mechanical QAR

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Mechanical QAR - Weld Inspection FST Technical Services is your global partner in the Semiconductor, Microelectronics, Pharmaceutical and other Life Science Industries ! Come join an awesome team in ...

Staff Welding Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$37.25 - $51.25/hr

Working knowledge of NDT methods (UT, RT, MT, PT, VT) and weld inspection criteria. * Strong root-cause analysis and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety.

Certified Welding Inspector

Benicia, CA · On-site

$33 - $44.50/hr

The successful candidate will verify weld quality through visual inspection and nondestructive examination coordination, ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards, and support client QA/Q ...

Staff Welding Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

Working knowledge of NDT methods (UT, RT, MT, PT, VT) and weld inspection criteria. * Strong root-cause analysis and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety.

Staff Welding Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

Working knowledge of NDT methods (UT, RT, MT, PT, VT) and weld inspection criteria. * Strong root-cause analysis and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety.

Welder Level 2 to 3

Cameron Park, CA · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

Conduct visual weld inspection, accurately measure weld size in inches and millimeters. Non-Essential Responsibilities: * Operate forklift, sandblast, and tumble parts. * Other duties as assigned by ...

Pipe Fitter/Welder

Santa Ana, CA

$26 - $32/hr

Groom completed systems and prepare for company, customer, and government inspections * Document all work: weld maps, joint logs, NDE records, material traceability * Identify and disposition non ...

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Weld Inspection information

See California salary details

$15

$25

$40

How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld inspection in California is $25.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $32.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a weld inspector?

To become a weld inspector, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, gain experience in welding or fabrication, and obtain certification such as the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). Knowledge of welding processes, materials, and inspection techniques, along with strong attention to detail, are essential for the role.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding inspectors, especially those with certifications like AWS or ASME, can earn around $50 an hour or more, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled welders working in specialized fields such as aerospace, oil and gas, or construction may also reach or exceed this rate, particularly with advanced certifications and overtime opportunities.

How much does a welder inspector make a year?

A welder inspector typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior inspectors with specialized skills or working in high-demand industries can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $90,000 per year.

What are some common challenges faced by weld inspectors on large construction projects?

Weld inspectors on large construction projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams to schedule inspections without disrupting project timelines, interpreting complex blueprints and welding codes, and ensuring consistent quality across varied environments. They must also document findings thoroughly and communicate effectively with welders and project managers to address any non-conformities. Navigating changing site conditions and maintaining safety standards adds to the complexity, making attention to detail and adaptability crucial for success in this role.

Is welding inspection a good career?

Welding inspection is a stable career that involves examining welds for quality and safety, often requiring certifications such as AWS or ASNT. It offers opportunities in manufacturing, construction, and energy sectors, with a need for attention to detail and knowledge of welding techniques and codes. The profession can provide steady employment and advancement potential for those with technical skills and certification.

What is weld inspection?

Weld inspection is the process of evaluating welded joints to ensure they meet specific safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Inspectors use visual assessments, measurement tools, and sometimes advanced techniques like ultrasonic or X-ray testing to detect flaws such as cracks, porosity, or incomplete fusion. The goal is to verify that the welds are structurally sound and meet the required specifications. Proper weld inspection helps prevent failures in structures, machinery, and pipelines, ensuring reliability and safety.

What is the difference between Weld Inspection vs NDT Technician?

AspectWeld InspectionNDT Technician
CertificationsASNT Level I/II, AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)ASNT Level I/II, Level III, specific NDT methods certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, oil & gas facilitiesIndustrial, aerospace, power plants, manufacturing
Job FocusInspecting welds for quality, compliance, and safetyPerforming non-destructive testing methods on materials and welds

Weld Inspection primarily involves evaluating weld quality and ensuring compliance with standards, often requiring specific certifications like AWS CWI. NDT Technicians perform various non-destructive testing methods to detect flaws in materials, which may include welds. While both roles require similar certifications and work in industrial environments, Weld Inspectors focus on visual and dimensional assessments of welds, whereas NDT Technicians use specialized testing techniques to assess material integrity.

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

To thrive as a Weld Inspector, you need a solid understanding of welding processes, metallurgy, industry codes, and standards, often supported by certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). Familiarity with inspection tools like ultrasonic testers, radiographic equipment, and documentation systems is crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are important soft skills for accurately assessing weld quality and reporting findings. These skills ensure weld integrity, safety compliance, and the overall quality of construction or manufacturing projects.
What job categories do people searching Weld Inspection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Weld Inspection jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Weld Inspection jobs? Cities in California with the most Weld Inspection job openings:
Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,809 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

$31.81 - $55.01/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Inspector - Welding

Job Code: 39740

Job Location: Canoga Park

Job Schedule: 2nd shift 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

L3Harris - Aerojet Rocketdyne is seeking a Weld Inspector to work at the Canoga Park Facility in California which produces large and small propulsion components and systems for NASA, Military and Commercial contracts. The Factory supports production across two shifts on a 9/80 schedule.  The Weld Inspector is responsible for visual verification of weld requirements for all programs, is part of a team of inspectors whom participate on NWT with the Operations staff.  Inspection responsibilities are supported by standard work and procedures. The inspection team is accountable to a Quality Manager

Essential Functions:

  • Read and interpret manufacturing standard drawing and weld symbols to ensure accuracy of weldment to drawing requirement.
  • Create non-conformance reports for inspection results. Work directly with Production and Fabrication shop to provide required defect details.
  • Work with factory planning software suites similar to SAP or Maestro and general use of Microsoft Office for communications and documentation.
  • Read Calipers and general use similar dimensional equipment, as well as using borescopes for internal inspections.
  • Identify problems and issues and work to achieve operational targets within job area by helping to develop solutions and resolve issues.
  • Determine or assist in determining methods and procedures necessary for inspection. 
  • Daily assignments require independent/individual judgement.
  • Communicate with process and product experts on matters that may require obtaining or providing information to conclude explanation or interpretation of results.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications:

  • Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 6 years of prior Weld process experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Experience with a variety of weld processes, manual and automated, including TIG, Robotic and Electron Beam.
  • Experience with dimensioning and tolerancing systems (GD&T).
  • Experience with using molds for dimensional verification.
  • Willingness to secure, and capability to pass  a "Secret" clearance background check, if required to support business.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role is $31.81/hr - $55.01/hr. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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