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Weld Inspection Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

JM Industries, LLC

Be Seen First

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Riverdale, IL · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

The Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity and quality ... Reporting directly to the Quality Manager, this position involves thorough inspection, defect ...

Integrity Trade Services

TIG Welder

South Holland, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Weld inspection * Welding equipment operation * Safety procedures Why choose Integrity Trade Services At Integrity Trade Services, we value our employees by offering a competitive weekly paycheck and ...

EN Engineering LLC

Welding Inspector

Lisle, IL · On-site

$34 - $38/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 ...

EN Engineering LLC

Welding Inspector

Chicago, IL

$34 - $38/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 ...

EN Engineering LLC

Welding Inspector

Warrenville, IL

$34 - $38/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 ...

EN Engineering LLC

Welding Inspector

Warrenville, IL

$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 ...

HRT Solutions

Light Welder

Cary, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

This entry-level role is responsible for completing standard production welds, interpreting simple blueprints and work instructions, conducting basic weld inspections, and maintaining a safe and ...

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All JobsWeld Inspection JobsWeld Inspection Jobs in Chicago, IL

Weld Inspection information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$27

$42

How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld inspection in Chicago, IL is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $33.65 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 Chicago, IL? For Weld Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Weld Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Weld Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Weld Inspection jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Weld Inspection job openings:
Weld Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,167 per year, or $27 per hour.

Certified Weld Inspector/Instructor/Engineer

H3 Manufacturing Group

Schaumburg, IL

$85K - $95K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

* * * DIRECT Hire Only. No Recruiters. No Phone Calls * * *
Job Title: Certified Weld Inspector/Instructor (CWI) / Certified Weld Engineer
Job Type: Full-time, Day Shift
Location: Schaumburg, IL
  • This position requires ITAR compliance and may involve access to technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Sponsorship is not available now nor in the future.
  • Applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by ITAR.
Company Overview:
H3 Manufacturing is a leading integrated manufacturing solutions provider specializing in precision machining, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex welding, assembly, surface finishing, painting, and powder coating. With four state-of-the-art facilities spanning over 200,000 square feet across Illinois amp; North Carolina, we serve high-spec markets including power generation, healthcare, electrical power distribution, aerospace and defense, life sciences, and more.
Key Responsibilities:
The Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) / Instructor / Weld Engineer is responsible for ensuring all welded products meet customer specifications, applicable codes, and company quality standards while developing and improving the welding skills of production employees. This role combines technical inspection expertise with hands-on training, mentoring, and continuous improvement initiatives to support safe, high-quality, and efficient manufacturing operations.
Weld Inspection amp; Quality
  • Perform visual weld inspections in accordance with applicable AWS, customer, and internal quality standards.
  • Interpret welding symbols, engineering drawings, specifications, and applicable welding codes to ensure travelers, work instructions and jobs are scoped and set-up appropriately.
  • Verify compliance with approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), Procedure Qualification Records (PQR), and Welder Performance Qualifications (WPQ).
  • Identify welding defects, determine root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Document inspection findings and maintain accurate inspection records.
  • Support internal, customer, and third-party quality audits.
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve weld-related quality issues.
  • Assist in dispositioning nonconforming material and implementing corrective actions.
  • Monitor welding processes to ensure consistent quality and process capability.
Training amp; Instruction
  • Develop and deliver hands-on welding training for new hires and existing employees.
  • Evaluate welder proficiency and provide coaching to improve technique, quality, and productivity.
  • Conduct welder qualification testing and maintain qualification records.
  • Develop training materials, work instructions, and welding best practices.
  • Identify skill gaps and recommend development plans for welders.
  • Promote proper welding techniques, safety practices, and equipment care.
  • Serve as a technical resource for supervisors and production employees.
Lean amp; Continuous Improvement
  • Develop, qualify, and maintain welding procedures (WPS/PQR) in accordance with applicable codes and standards (AWS, ASME, API, ISO, etc.).
  • Design and optimize welding processes to improve quality, efficiency, and cost.
  • Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on improving welding quality and efficiency.
  • Analyze weld defects and quality trends to reduce scrap and rework.
  • Recommend improvements to fixtures, processes, consumables, and equipment.
  • Participate in new product launches and process validations involving welding operations.
  • Assist with continuous improvement projects related to welding operations and quality systems.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • REQUIRED: Current AWS Certified Weld Inspector (CWI) certification.
  • REQUIRED: Ability to execute and train on 6G Welds
  • Preferred: Certified Welding Engineer (CWE)
  • Minimum of 5 years of welding experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong knowledge of AWS welding codes and standards.
  • Experience interpreting blueprints, welding symbols, and engineering drawings.
  • Knowledge of welding processes including MIG, TIG, FCAW, and GMAW (as applicable).
  • Experience with welding codes and standards (AWS D1.1, ASME Section IX, API, ISO, etc.).
Skills
  • Strong communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency using standard inspection tools and measuring equipment.
  • Ability to prepare accurate inspection reports and training documentation.
  • Strong understanding of welding metallurgy and fabrication processes.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Ability to identify and troubleshoot welding defects.
  • Effective presentation and classroom instruction skills.
  • Strong organizational and documentation abilities.
  • Ability to work collaboratively across departments.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.
Experience:
  • Previous experience training or instructing welders.
  • Experience in a metal fabrication or contract manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality management systems.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Additional certifications such as Certified Welding Educator (CWE) or NDE certifications are a plus.
  • Experience with robot automation is not required but it is preferred.
  • Experience in welding fixturing, welding work sequencing and development/coaching of top welding attributes (i.e. heat transfer, back-gassing, heat mitigation methodologies, machine optimization for weld penetration with different materials and thickness.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for the duration of a 10-hour shift.
  • Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequently bend, twist, reach, stoop, and grasp.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate machinery and measuring equipment.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, noise, and varying temperatures.
  • Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Working Conditions
  • Manufacturing production environment.
  • Regular exposure to machinery, metal materials, and industrial noise.
  • Overtime and occasional weekend work may be required to meet production demands.
* * * Direct Hires ONLY. No Recruiters. No Phone Calls * * *
Pay: starting at $90,000/yr
Location Requirement: Schaumburg, IL
Benefits:
  • Retirement plan 401(k) with 401(k) match
  • Healthcare, Dental amp; Vision insurance
  • Flexible spending account or Health savings account option
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
H3 Manufacturing Group, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should email HR@H3mfgGroup.com.

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