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Weld Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Certified Welding Inspector

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$30 - $40.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare inspection reports and provide written documentation of observations and testing of ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

APM Manufacturing

Aerospace Welder (NDT Certification)

Orange, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... weld flaws (e.g., cracks, porosity, or lack of fusion). * Equipment Management: Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized inspection and testing equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.

APM Manufacturing

Aerospace Welder (NDT Certification)

Orange, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... weld flaws (e.g., cracks, porosity, or lack of fusion). * Equipment Management: Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized inspection and testing equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.

TRC Companies, Inc.

Certified Welding Inspector

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$69.30 - $84.70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Inspection position that provides distribution and/or transmission support for client 3rd ... weld numbers and assigned welder Id Numbers, etc. * Coordinate and inspect contractors work for job ...

WORKFORCE SERVICES INC

Fabricator / Welder

Oakland, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Repair / Weld / Inspections * Welding Airport equipment (Dollys, Tugs, Equipment, ect. ) Stick welding * Enter Workorders on computer system and charge out parts used. REQUIRED SKILLS AND/OR ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Carson, CA · On-site

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Gardena, CA · On-site

$26.70 - $37.50/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

Essel

Special Inspector

Hayward, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience and certifications in various inspection disciplines ... Verify welding procedures, welder qualifications, and weld quality. * Ensure adherence to ...

Achievement Engineering Corp.

CWI & NDT Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$45 - $58/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

The CWI & NDT Inspector will perform inspections of structural steel welding, bolting, and Non ... Destructive Testing (NDT). Creating and maintaining related documentation such as technical reports ...

Essel

Special Inspector

Hayward, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience and certifications in various inspection disciplines ... Verify welding procedures, welder qualifications, and weld quality. * Ensure adherence to ...

Essel

Special Inspector

Hayward, CA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have experience and certifications in various inspection disciplines ... Verify welding procedures, welder qualifications, and weld quality. * Ensure adherence to ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $35.50/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA · On-site

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

APM Manufacturing

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Orange, CA · On-site

$30.25 - $40.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Able to Weld thin Aluminum 035-060 and Steel. · Able to understand basic measurements using ... Certified Welding Inspector (Required) Education/Experience: High school diploma or general ...

APM Manufacturing

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Orange, CA · On-site

$30.25 - $40.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Weld thin Aluminum 035-060 and Steel. • Able to understand basic measurements using calipers. • Basic understanding of welding symbols per AWS 2.4. • Advanced Blueprint reading. • Must own ...

Semiserve

QC Inspector

San Leandro, CA

... installation, welding inspection and oversight of subcontractor installation and quality. The QA/QC Inspector will participate in the General Contractors project quality program documenting ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Gardena, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g ... American Welding Society (AWS) Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) * American Society for ...

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All JobsWeld Inspection JobsWeld Inspection Jobs in California

Weld Inspection information

See California salary details

$15

$25

$40

How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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). Training programs and exams cover welding processes, inspection techniques, and safety standards, and ongoing education helps maintain certification and stay current with industry practices.

Are weld inspection inspectors in high demand?

Weld inspection inspectors are in high demand due to the need for quality assurance in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy. The role often requires certifications like AWS or ASNT, and demand is expected to grow with ongoing infrastructure and industrial projects worldwide.

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 typical schedule of standard working hours and the need for attention to detail and technical skills.

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 are popular job titles related to Weld Inspection jobs in California?

For Weld Inspection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

Weld Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,809 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Certified Welding Inspector

TERRACON

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$30 - $40.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


Construction Inspectors spend the majority of their time working on projects performing construction related inspection requiring specific certifications and/or experience. Perform daily inspection of construction projects monitoring quality and adherence to building code requirements, construction drawings and project specifications. Inspections may cross multiple inspection disciplines or within a specified area of expertise including structural steel, concrete, masonry, fireproofing, etc. Inspection may include visual/physical inspection and field testing to verify conformance with the plans and specifications. Prepare inspection reports and provide written documentation of observations and testing of materials. Communicate findings to engineer or project manager and when requested collaborate with the project team on solutions to potential issues. Adhere to strict safety standards. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
The chemistry that holds our materials team together is made of integrity, creativity, and care. We represent Terracon's largest technician and inspection workforce and ensure the materials used to build the nation's roads, bridges, airports, stadiums, and other structures are safe and sound. With our broad range of qualifications, specialized certifications, and building materials professionals, we are on-site, evaluating and testing materials in real-time to keep the pace of our clients' project, collecting and reporting data digitally to deliver critical insights. With our nationwide footprint of offices and laboratories, bench strength, flexibility, and diverse capabilities we identify issues and expedite solutions whenever problems arise.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred.
  • Minimum 2-4 years' experience as an Engineering Technician or other applicable experience.
  • 1 year experience in construction inspection preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history

Required Certification:

  • Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.
  • At least one or more certifications in the following areas:
    • NICET Level II certification in Construction Materials Testing (Asphalt, Concrete, Soils).
    • NICET Level II certification in Geotechnical (Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist)
    • ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post-Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding).
    • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
    • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification (Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT)).
    • Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.
  • ACI certification* in one or more of the following areas:
    • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
    • Concrete Strength Testing Technician
  • *ACI certification not required if AWS CWI, ASNT Level II, VT, MT, PT, RT or UT certification(s) have been obtained and concrete field and laboratory testing is not required as part of the job level description.
    • Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation**.
  • **Nuclear Density Gauge operation certification not required if AWS CWI, ASNT Level II, VT, MT, PT, RT or UT certification(s) have been obtained and soils testing is not required as part of the job level description.
  • Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures.
  • Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
  • Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
  • Performs basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
  • Communicates information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the Project Manager.
  • Draft inspection reports for review by senior inspector and/or Project Managers.
  • May assist more senior inspectors on projects.
  • Maintains equipment and calibration.
  • Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F-150 or equivalent.
  • Follows safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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