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Weld Inspection Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Light Welder

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Conduct basic visual inspections of welds * Maintain a clean and safe work area * Meet production ... Vocational welding training or apprenticeship (preferred) * Basic AWS or company-specific ...

Light Welder

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Conduct basic visual inspections of welds * Maintain a clean and safe work area * Meet production ... Vocational welding training or apprenticeship (preferred) * Basic AWS or company-specific ...

Light Welder

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Conduct basic visual inspections of welds * Maintain a clean and safe work area * Meet production ... Vocational welding training or apprenticeship (preferred) * Basic AWS or company-specific ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Bartlett, IL ยท On-site

$32.94/hr

Welds products, which must qualify under all inspection techniques such as nondestructive ... Must be able to weld materials with a wall thickness of .005" * Knowledge of blueprints, welding ...

Quality Inspector

Harvey, IL ยท On-site

$28/hr

Read and analyze blueprints, weld symbols, and inspection reports. * Conduct visual and tool-based inspections using calipers, micrometers, thread gages, and inspection tools. * Identify welding ...

Welder, TIG

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct in-process inspections and correct minor defects * Select appropriate consumables and welding parameters * Maintain equipment and ensure work complies with welding codes * Identify hazards ...

Conduct in-process inspections and correct minor defects * Select appropriate consumables and welding parameters * Maintain equipment and ensure work complies with welding codes * Identify hazards ...

Welder

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Ability to use inspection methods including tape measure, calipers and fillet gages. * Able to interpret AWS weld symbols. * Able to read and interpret blueprints. * Ability to communicate ...

Welder, TIG

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct in-process inspections and correct minor defects * Select appropriate consumables and welding parameters * Maintain equipment and ensure work complies with welding codes * Identify hazards ...

Welder

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Ability to use inspection methods including tape measure, calipers and fillet gages. * Able to interpret AWS weld symbols. * Able to read and interpret blueprints. * Ability to communicate ...

Lead Welder

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... use inspection methods including tape measure, calipers and fillet gages. * Able to demonstrate proficiency with teach pendant programing on FANUC and ABB platforms. * Able to interpret AWS weld ...

Welder

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Ability to use inspection methods including tape measure, calipers and fillet gages. * Able to interpret AWS weld symbols. * Able to read and interpret blueprints. * Ability to communicate ...

Lead Welder

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... use inspection methods including tape measure, calipers and fillet gages. * Able to demonstrate proficiency with teach pendant programing on FANUC and ABB platforms. * Able to interpret AWS weld ...

Lead Welder

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

$70 - $95/hr

... use inspection methods including tape measure, calipers and fillet gages. * Able to demonstrate proficiency with teach pendant programing on FANUC and ABB platforms. * Able to interpret AWS weld ...

New

Welder

Hobart, IN ยท On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Welder $18-$27/hr This is a temp to hire position Integrity Trade Services is seeking an ... Knowledge of quality assurance and self-inspection techniques * Self-motivated and detail-oriented

Showing results 41-60

Weld Inspection information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$27

$42

How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,167 per year, or $27 per hour.

$19.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

The Role:ย 

As a Light Welder,ย you will join ourย Manufacturing Teamย and support production by performing basic welding tasks, reading simple blueprints, and learning multiple welding processes under close supervision.ย ย 

Your Responsibilities:ย ย 

  • Perform standard production welds and basic repair weldingย 
  • Follow instructions and simple blueprints or work instructionsย 
  • Assistย with equipment setup and routine maintenanceย 
  • Conduct basic visual inspections of weldsย 
  • Maintain a clean and safe work areaย 
  • Meet production expectations and follow quality proceduresย 
  • Other duties as assignedย 

Our Requirements:ย ย 

  • High school diploma or GEDย 
  • Vocational welding training or apprenticeship (preferred)ย 
  • Basic AWS or company-specific certifications; working toward advanced qualificationsย 
  • Ability to interpret simple blueprints with guidanceย 
  • Basicย proficiencyย in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding on common steelsย 
  • Performs basic visual checks; relies on supervisors for final inspectionย 
  • Assistsย with setup and routine equipment maintenanceย 
  • Learns OSHA standards, PPE use, and fire/ventilation safetyย 
  • Works under close supervision with limited decision-makingย 
  • Mustย be authorized toย work in the US without sponsorship, both now and in the future

Pay Rate: 17.00 - 17.51