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Weld Inspection Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SGS

VA · 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.

Jobtailor

Quality Inspector

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

Certifications in Nondestructive Testing: (1) Visual Weld Inspection and (2) Liquid Dye Penetrant Testing Core Competencies Demonstrates expertise in mechanical inspection and quality assurance, with ...

TERRACON

Certified Welding Inspector

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$30.25 - $42.25/hr

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

TERRACON

Certified Welding Inspector

Woodbridge, VA

$28 - $37.75/hr

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

ColonialWebb

Quality Inspector

Richmond, VA · 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 ...

ColonialWebb

Quality Inspector

Richmond, VA · 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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All JobsWeld Inspection JobsWeld Inspection Jobs in Virginia

Weld Inspection information

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$15

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How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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.

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 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 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.

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.

Are weld inspectors in high demand?

Weld inspectors are in high demand across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy, especially as skilled trades remain essential for safety and quality assurance. The job often requires certifications like AWS or ASME, and demand is expected to grow with ongoing infrastructure projects and maintenance needs.

How do you become a weld inspector?

To become a weld inspector, you typically need to complete a welding inspection training program and obtain certification from a recognized organization such as the American Welding Society (AWS). Experience in welding and knowledge of codes and standards are also important for performing inspections effectively.

Is weld inspection a good career?

Weld 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 involving on-site work and the need for attention to detail and technical skills. The profession can provide steady employment and advancement potential for those with proper training and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Weld Inspection jobs in Virginia?

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

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:

Weld Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,056 per year, or $26 per hour.

Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) and NDT Inspector

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Bay Metals & Fabrication, LLC
See more jobs at Bay Metals & Fabrication, LLCexternal

$27.50 - $37.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Bay Metals & Fabrication, LLC is seeking a CWI / NDT Inspector to join our team supporting Navy ship repair and fabrication projects. This position is primarily responsible for welding inspections and quality assurance activities, with opportunities to perform and develop additional NDT capabilities.

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented and dependable professional who takes pride in quality workmanship and documentation. A strong work ethic, good communication skills, and the ability and willingness to learn are essential to this position.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) duties for mechanical, structural, and piping repairs and installations, both in fabrication shops and aboard ships.
  • Inspect welding activities for compliance with applicable specifications, NAVSEA technical publications, fabrication drawings, procedures, and customer requirements.
  • Verify welding joint design, joint fit-up, workmanship, and other applicable welding requirements.
  • Read and interpret specifications, procedures, diagrams, NAVSEA technical publications, fabrication drawings, and other technical documents.
  • Review specifications and Test and Inspection Plans (TIPs) before, during, and after work is performed to verify completeness, accuracy, and compliance with technical requirements.
  • Perform in-process shipboard surveillances and other quality assurance inspections as assigned by the Quality Assurance Supervisor.
  • Perform Visual Inspection (VT) of welds in accordance with applicable specifications, standards, procedures, and company requirements.
  • Perform NDT activities, including PT, MT, and/or UT, when qualified.
  • Work with Operations, Production, NDT personnel, and customer representatives to identify and resolve quality issues.
  • Identify, document, and communicate deficiencies, discrepancies, and nonconforming work.
  • Maintain accurate inspection and quality documentation.
  • Support customer and government inspections as required.
  • Perform additional quality assurance and inspection duties as assigned by the Quality Assurance Supervisor.

Qualifications

  • Current Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification is required.
  • Prior qualification or certification in PT, MT, and/or UT is preferred but not required.
  • Candidates with NDT experience or certifications in addition to their CWI qualification are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • BMF is willing to provide training and development opportunities for qualified CWIs to obtain additional NDT qualifications.
  • Strong knowledge of welding joint design, joint fit-up, and welding inspection requirements.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, drawings, procedures, and NAVSEA technical publications.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to identify discrepancies and potential quality issues.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, trades personnel, customers, and other members of the QA team.
  • Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a team.
  • CAD experience is a plus.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to government contract requirements.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a DBIDS badge/access credential to enter area shipyards and naval installations.
  • Must be able to gain and maintain access to area shipyards and naval installations, including NN-HII, NASSCO, BAE Systems, MHI, NNSY, NOB, and other customer facilities as required.
  • Must be willing and able to work overtime and weekends when required by project needs.
  • Must follow all company, shipyard, vessel, and customer safety requirements at all times.

CWI certification is required. Additional NDT qualifications and experience in PT, MT, and/or UT are preferred and may qualify candidates for compensation at the higher end of the range.

Work Environment

This position supports active ship repair operations and may require working aboard Navy vessels, in shipyards, fabrication facilities, and other industrial environments. Candidates must be comfortable working in areas with varying temperatures, noise, confined spaces, ladders, and other conditions commonly associated with ship repair.

About Bay Metals & Fabrication

Bay Metals & Fabrication, LLC is a growing ship repair and fabrication contractor supporting Navy and commercial ship repair operations. Our team works alongside shipyard and government customers to safely deliver quality work in demanding marine environments.

If you are a CWI who takes pride in quality, understands the importance of accurate inspection and documentation, and wants to build your skills in NDT while supporting critical ship repair work, we want to hear from you.

Bay Metals & Fabrication, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person