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Weld Inspection Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VA ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Company Description We are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company ... Perform pre-weld, in-process, and post-weld inspections to identify defects and ensure quality.

Certified Welding Inspector

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$28.50 - $38.50/hr

High School diploma or equivalent required * 3 years or more of experience in performing steel inspection to include welded and bolted connections for fabrication, assembly or erection * AWS ...

Certified Welding Inspector

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$27.75 - $37.50/hr

High School diploma or equivalent required * 3 years or more of experience in performing steel inspection to include welded and bolted connections for fabrication, assembly or erection * Current AWS ...

Quality Inspector

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Conduct welding visual inspection in accordance with applicable codes and standards * Coordinate scheduling of non-destructive testing by outside contractors * Drive root cause analysis and ...

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Weld Inspection information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$25

$40

How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld inspection in Virginia is $25.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $32.40 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 Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Weld Inspection jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Weld Inspection jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Weld Inspection job openings:
Welding Quality Control Inspector

Welding Quality Control Inspector

Atlantic Constructors

Richmond, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

At ACI we build our company and our culture not by counting people, but by making our people count!

Atlantic Constructors is seeking dynamic, motivated, career minded individuals to join our expanding team! Atlantic Constructors has been recognized as an industry leader in the Mid-Atlantic Region for over 50 years.

Benefits:

  • $0.00 COST FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, SHORT TERM DISABILITY & LIFE INSURANCE (EMPLOYEE ONLY) COVERAGE!
  • Dental Insurance Plan
  • Vision Insurance Plan
  • 401(K) Retirement Plan with Generous Company Matching
  • Health Savings Plan with Generous Company Matching
  • Wellness Programs

Atlantic Constructors offers competitive benefits, for more information check out our comprehensive list on our website. ACIBuilds.com

Position Summary

We are seeking a qualified Quality Control Inspector with strong hands-on welding inspection experience to support our manufacturing operations. Candidates should possess a deep understanding of welding processes, engineering drawings, and quality standards. CWI certification is preferred but not required for candidates with demonstrated, high-level industry experience.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring all products meet applicable codes, specifications, and customer requirements while supporting quality improvement efforts across operations.

Key Responsibilities

- Perform in-process and final inspections on welded assemblies and components

- Interpret and review engineering drawings, weld symbols, and specifications

- Verify compliance with welding procedures (WPS), codes (AWS, ASME), and customer requirements

- Inspect welds using visual inspection and other applicable methods

- Monitor manufacturing processes to ensure quality standards are maintained

- Document inspection results and maintain accurate quality records

- Generate, document, and track Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)

- Identify non-conforming materials and work with production teams on corrective actions

- Support root cause analysis and assist in implementing corrective and preventive actions

- Interface with production, engineering, and management to resolve quality issues

On-the-Floor Expectations

- Maintain a consistent and visible presence in production areas to monitor quality in real time

- Actively engage with welders and operators to ensure understanding of quality requirements and weld criteria

- Verify proper fit-up, welding techniques, and adherence to approved procedures during production

- Identify and address quality concerns immediately to prevent rework or defects

- Ensure traceability, material identification, and proper documentation are maintained on the floor

- Stop work or escalate issues when critical non-conformances or safety-related defects are identified

- Provide guidance and feedback to production personnel to promote continuous quality improvement

- Perform audits of workstations, tools, and processes to ensure compliance with standards

Required Qualifications

- Extensive hands-on experience in welding inspection and quality control

- Strong knowledge of welding processes, weld inspection techniques, and quality standards

- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and weld symbols

- Working knowledge of AWS, ASME or similar codes

- Proven experience generating and managing Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)

- Strong attention to detail and documentation skills

- Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

- AWS Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) certification

- Advanced inspection experience

- Familiarity with NDT methods (PT, MT, UT)

- Knowledge of ISO quality systems

- Experience with ERP/QMS systems

Skills & Competencies

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

- Excellent communication and reporting abilities

- High level of accuracy and attention to detail

- Ability to manage multiple priorities

Work Environment

- Hands-on role requiring regular presence in active production areas

- Frequent interaction with production, supervisors, and engineering

- Ability to work in PPE-required environments

ACIBuilds.com

Final compensation will be determined based on experience, education, licensure, skills, and other relevant factors

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer