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Weld Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RMS Energy

$26.25 - $35.50/hr

Prepare detailed, accurate weld inspection reports, including documentation of welders, inspections performed, and results. * Support training initiatives by mentoring junior inspectors and welders ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Weld Tech

Clinton, IL

$55K - $70K/yr

The Plant Welding Technician will have strong hands-on welding skills, visual weld inspection experience, and experience using welding procedure specifications. Meyer Utility Structures, an Arcosa ...

Arcosa Lightweight

Weld Tech

Clinton, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

The Plant Welding Technician will have strong hands-on welding skills, visual weld inspection experience, and experience using welding procedure specifications. Meyer Utility Structures, an Arcosa ...

PPS-HPS

Certified Welding Inspector

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$27.50 - $37.25/hr

Design and implement weld inspection quality assurance plans * Prepare material control requirements * Adhere to all safety requirement and protocols * Implement continuous improvement plans

Hendrick

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

Performs non-destructive visual inspection of welds performed by others in accordance with defined process specifications. * Identifies opportunities to coach fabricators up on weld quality and ...

GABLETEK

Weld Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$34.50 - $47.75/hr

Working knowledge of NDT methods (UT, RT, MT, PT, VT) and weld inspection criteria per ASNT TC-1-A Nice to Have * Certified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor * Experience in industrial manufacturing and metal ...

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Weld Inspection information

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$15

$26

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How much do weld inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld inspection in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.69 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
Infographic showing various Weld Inspection job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,523 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
SR. TECHNICIAN - TECHNICIAN - Nondestructive Testing Weld Inspection

SR. TECHNICIAN - TECHNICIAN - Nondestructive Testing Weld Inspection

Southwest Research Institute

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 59 rated research

Job description

Who We Are:
The Sensor Systems and Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Technology team is comprised of engineers, scientists, and technicians who develop sensor systems and inspection methodologies and perform inspections to assess the serviceability of a variety of structures, from deep sea to deep space. By joining our team, you will receive an additional $500 in your first paycheck, minus taxes.
Objectives of this Role:
  • Perform hands-on inspections of multiple large-scale fabrication efforts for a variety of industries and application areas at Southwest Research Institute located in San Antonio, TX.
  • Maintain safety and quality requirements by following relevant procedures, laws, regulations, and customer requirements.
  • Manage the entire inspection process, including pre-job setup, procedure reviews, equipment calibration, post-job cleanup, and documentation.
  • Assist with experimental setups, prototype inspections, and data collection for new sensor and NDE techniques.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Perform detailed visual tests (VT) of structural welds to ensure conformance with relevant codes (AWS, ASME, ABS, etc.).
  • Conduct nondestructive testing using methods such as Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Radiographic Testing (RT), and Penetrant Testing (PT).
  • Identify weld defects or inconsistencies to maintain production quality and safety.
  • Prepare detailed inspection reports that communicate findings clearly and accurately.
  • Collaborate with welding, engineering, and inspection teams.
  • Attain necessary qualifications for certification in multiple nondestructive inspection methods.

Requirements:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required or an Associate's degree in Nondestructive Testing, Engineering, Physical Science, or Technology, or equivalent is strongly preferred.
  • 3+ years: Years of structural weld inspection experience.
  • Certified Welding Inspector (AWS) strongly preferred; Proficiency in welding strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in reading engineering drawings, welding procedure specifications (WPS), and technical documentation.
  • Familiarity with multiple nondestructive testing methods (UT, MT, PT, RT, and/or ET) is required; current certifications at Level I or higher in one or more methods are preferred.
  • Able to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.
  • Comfortable working with computers and proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Able to work both within a team and individually with minimal direct supervision.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 10%) in support of projects away from SwRI.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

Special Requirements:
Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas
Military Friendly: Your military experience may apply to this position
For more information about this division, visit the Mechanical Engineering home page.
For benefits information at our San Antonio location, click here .
For benefits information at all other locations, click here .
An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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