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Weld Inspection Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Weld Inspector I

Lakeville, MN ยท On-site

$24 - $29/hr

This role requires a strong understanding of welding processes, inspection techniques, and quality control procedures. The Weld Inspector will work closely with production, engineering, and quality ...

Weld Trainee

Lake Crystal, MN ยท On-site

$22/hr

This program is taught by an American Welding Society Certified Weld Inspector and is typically 80 hours, or 2 weeks in length. During welding school, you'll be paid $16 per hour while you're ...

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Mig Tig Welder

New Brighton, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $27/hr

You will also inspect the final products for quality, so you should be able to read and interpret blueprints and other technical drawings. Applicants must be able to pass an MIG weld test and a pre ...

Veteran-friendly

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Mig Tig Welder

New Brighton, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $27/hr

You will also inspect the final products for quality, so you should be able to read and interpret blueprints and other technical drawings. Applicants must be able to pass an MIG weld test and a pre ...

Veteran-friendly

Quality Inspector

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Prepare inspection reports and maintain accurate records of all welding activities and submit them to the manager. * Collaborate with other departments to ensure that welding activities are ...

Quality Inspector

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Prepare inspection reports and maintain accurate records of all welding activities and submit them to the manager. * Collaborate with other departments to ensure that welding activities are ...

Weld Instructor CWI

Rochester, MN

$35 - $48/hr

Must currently hold an American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector designation or obtain within 6 months. * Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees ...

Weld Instructor CWI

Rochester, MN ยท On-site

$35 - $48/hr

Must currently hold an American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector designation or obtain within 6 months. * Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees ...

Inspector (WS)

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Set up and verify calibration of inspection tools used within the machine shop. * Assist in developing and improving NDT procedures in accordance with German DIN standards and American Welding ...

The ideal candidate will bring strong mechanical aptitude, manufacturing inspection experience, and an active AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification. Quality Inspector Responsibilities:

Welder

Duluth, MN ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and technical drawings * Measure, cut, and fit metal pieces prior to welding * Inspect completed welds for quality, accuracy, and adherence to ...

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Weld Inspection information

See Minnesota 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 Minnesota is $25.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $32.02 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 are popular job titles related to Weld Inspection jobs in Minnesota? For Weld Inspection jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Weld Inspection jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Weld Inspection jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Weld Inspection jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Weld Inspection job openings:
Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,401 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Weld Inspector I

Advanced Exhaust Solutions

Lakeville, MN โ€ข On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Weld Inspector I/ Quality Inspector

Reports to: Weld Quality Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Summary:

The Quality Weld Inspector is responsible for performing inspections of welded components and assemblies to ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and specifications. This role requires a strong understanding of welding processes, inspection techniques, and quality control procedures. The Weld Inspector will work closely with production, engineering, and quality teams to identify and resolve welding-related issues and ensure product integrity.


Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct visual inspections on pre-, in-process, and post-welded materials to identify defects such as cracks, pits, and inadequate weld penetration.
  • Perform dimensional inspections to verify welds conform to blueprints, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Assist in setting up and testing weld joints to evaluate their strength and integrity.
  • Complete and maintain accurate inspection reports, test results, and all required quality control documentation.
  • Communicate inspection findings and non-conformances to welders and supervisors, assisting in corrective actions as needed.
  • Verify that all materials and consumables used in the welding process are correctly certified and traceable.
  • Promote and ensure adherence to all company safety and quality policies and procedures.
Qualifications:
  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent. Completion of a technical or vocational program in welding technology is preferred.
  • Experience: 2โ€“5 years of experience in welding or a related field. No prior inspection experience is typically required for this entry-level role.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and technical specifications.
    • Basic knowledge of welding processes and materials.
    • Familiarity with visual and destructive testing methods.
    • Proficiency with basic inspection tools like calipers, tape measures, and fillet gauges.
  • Soft Skills:
    • Strong attention to detail with excellent observational and analytical abilities.
    • Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with welding teams and management.
    • Strong sense of personal responsibility and integrity.
    • Basic computer literacy for documenting and reporting results.

Physical requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, and reach for extended periods in a manufacturing or construction environment.
  • Specific vision abilities, including close vision, color vision, and depth perception, are required to inspect welds.
  • Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Comfortable working in a variety of conditions, including confined spaces, heights, and areas with potential exposure to weld gases, sparks, and loud noises.

1st shift 6:00am-4:30pm Monday through Thursday