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Weld Inspection Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

EN Engineering LLC

Welding Inspector

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Do you have the expertise and drive to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality in the pipeline and welding inspection industry? We are looking for a knowledgeable and detail-oriented ...

ENTRUST Solutions Group

Welding Inspector

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Do you have the expertise and drive to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality in the pipeline and welding inspection industry? We are looking for a knowledgeable and detail-oriented ...

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 ...

TERRACON

Construction Inspector I

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$30.30 - $42.30/hr

Minimum 2-4 years' experience in construction inspection. * Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history. Required Certification: * American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding ...

TERRACON

Construction Inspector I

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Minimum 2-4 years' experience in construction inspection. * Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history. Required Certification: * American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding ...

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All JobsWeld Inspection JobsWeld Inspection Jobs in Washington

Weld Inspection information

See Washington salary details

$17

$29

$46

How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld inspection in Washington is $29.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $37.02 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.
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Weld Inspection jobs near you
Friction Stir Weld Technician III

Friction Stir Weld Technician III

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD

$24 - $48/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Who We're Looking For

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
We are seeking a Technician III - Friction Stir Welding to fabricate novel spacecraft propellant tanks. This role is ideal for a technician with several years of experience in friction stir welding or a CNC operator that has experience with welding.
You will work closely with propulsion, manufacturing, mechanical, and test engineering teams to develop and refine friction stir welding processes for spacecraft propellant tanks. This is a hands-on role focused on execution, troubleshooting, hardware fabrication, and flight-critical manufacturing operations.

Where You'll Make an Impact

  • Work with engineers to develop friction stir welding processes for novel spacecraft propellant tanks
  • Provide manufacturing feedback to engineers to improve weld quality, repeatability, and production efficiency
  • Support engineers in the development and refinement of friction stir welding processes for spacecraft propellant tanks
  • Perform and own friction stir welding operations on development and flight spacecraft propellant tanks
  • Assist in pressure and leak testing of spacecraft propellant tanks
  • Assist in the integration of spacecraft propellant tanks into spacecraft propulsion systems

What It Takes

  • High school diploma or GED
  • 7+ years of relevant experience with friction stir welding, or CNC operation and welding experience
  • Demonstrated ability to lead small teams of technicians to accomplish tasks
  • Demonstrated ability to improve processes
  • Demonstrated ability to write standard operating procedures or similar documentation
  • Demonstrated ability to own completion of tasks with minimal oversight
  • Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot
  • Demonstrated ability to understand drawings and CAD models

Nice-to-Have Experience

  • 1+ years performing friction stir welding on spacecraft propulsion tanks or other pressure vessels
  • Friction stir weld certification and/or other weld certifications
  • Demonstrated experience with pressure testing and leak testing
  • Demonstrated experience in machining aerospace grade parts with CNC equipment
  • Demonstrated experience with the assembly, integration, and test of propulsion systems and components
  • Demonstrated experience creating and interpreting CAD models and engineering drawings
  • Experience with nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods and weld inspection

What You'll Get

Ownership - Contribute directly to the fabrication of mission-critical spacecraft hardware
Innovation - Support advanced manufacturing technologies enabling next-generation spacecraft mobility
Impact - Help deliver reliable spacecraft systems supporting national security, civil, and commercial missions
Growth - Join a cross-functional engineering and manufacturing team operating at the center of spacecraft development, integration, and mission execution
Compensation - Hourly range: $24 - 48/hr; Senior Technician Maryland salary range: $100,000-$130,000; equity participation opportunities and comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation

Additional Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the spacecraft hardware powering the next generation of spacecraft mobility and mission capability.

Apply