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Welder Highest Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Structural Steel Inspector

Rochester, MN · On-site

$27.78 - $38.78/hr

... safely and meet the highest quality standards. This role offers the opportunity to work ... Inspect structural steel fabrication and erection activities, including welding, bolting, member ...

... of the highest quality. To meet increased demand for our innovative products, we are currently ... Welding experience is beneficial but not required. * Read and interpret blueprints, electrical ...

Welder Highest information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$14

$22

$31

How much do welder highest jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder highest in Rochester, MN is $22.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a welder?

Welders are skilled tradespeople who join metal parts together using high heat and various welding techniques. They work in industries like construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and automotive repair, using tools such as arc welders, MIG welders, and TIG welders. Their responsibilities include reading blueprints, preparing materials, and ensuring strong, precise welds that meet safety standards. Highest-level welders often handle complex projects, work with specialized materials, and may supervise other welders. Attention to detail and safety is crucial in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welder?

To thrive as a Welder, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of welding techniques, typically supported by a high school diploma and welding certifications (such as AWS or NCCER). Familiarity with tools like MIG, TIG, and arc welding machines, as well as the ability to read blueprints and operate safety equipment, is essential. Problem-solving, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that distinguish top welders. These competencies ensure precise, safe, and high-quality work in demanding environments where structural integrity is critical.

What are the most common safety challenges welders face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Welders frequently encounter safety challenges such as exposure to intense heat, harmful fumes, and bright light, as well as risks of burns and eye injuries. To address these, it is essential to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like welding helmets, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing. Many employers also provide regular safety training and enforce strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying aware of your surroundings and maintaining equipment properly are both crucial for minimizing hazards and ensuring a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Welder Highest vs Welder Apprentice?

AspectWelder HighestWelder Apprentice
CertificationsCertified Welding Inspector (CWI), AWS certificationsBasic welding training, entry-level certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, manufacturing plants, constructionTraining sites, on-the-job learning environments
Experience LevelAdvanced, with years of experienceEntry-level, learning phase
Job ResponsibilitiesSupervising, quality control, complex welding tasksAssisting, learning welding techniques

The main difference between Welder Highest and Welder Apprentice lies in experience, certifications, and responsibilities. Welder Highest professionals have advanced skills, certifications, and oversee complex projects, while Welder Apprentices are in training, gaining foundational skills under supervision.

What are popular job titles related to Welder Highest jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Welder Highest jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Welder Highest jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Welder Highest jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Welder Highest jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Welder Highest job openings:

Structural Steel Inspector

TERRACON

Rochester, MN • On-site

$27.78 - $38.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Terracon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


Join our team as a Structural Steel Inspector and play a critical role in ensuring the safety, quality, and integrity of construction projects throughout Minnesota. In this position, you will perform inspections of structural steel fabrication and erection activities, including welding, bolting, connection installation, and fireproofing, on a variety of commercial, industrial, healthcare, and infrastructure projects.
Working closely with contractors, engineers, and project managers, you will verify compliance with building codes, approved construction documents, and project specifications through visual inspections, field observations, and coordination of nondestructive testing (NDT). Your expertise and attention to detail will help ensure that structures are constructed safely and meet the highest quality standards.
This role offers the opportunity to work independently in the field, develop specialized inspection expertise, and contribute to projects that shape the Rochester community and surrounding region. At Terracon, you'll have the opportunity to build your technical expertise, earn industry certifications, and contribute to meaningful projects while working as part of an employee-owned company committed to safety, quality, and career development.
Responsibilities
  • Perform structural steel inspections in accordance with project requirements, applicable codes, standards, and approved procedures.
  • Read and interpret structural drawings, shop drawings, erection plans, connection details, welding procedures, and project specifications.
  • Inspect structural steel fabrication and erection activities, including welding, bolting, member alignment, fit-up, and reinforcing details.
  • Verify compliance with AWS, AISC, ICC, and project-specific requirements.
  • Provide clear and accurate documentation of inspection findings and results.
  • Perform basic analysis of inspection and testing data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
  • Communicate inspection results, deficiencies, and recommendations to the Project Manager and other personnel as directed.
  • Draft inspection reports for review by senior inspectors and/or Project Managers.
  • May assist more senior inspectors on complex structural steel projects.
  • Maintain inspection equipment and calibration records.
  • Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F-150 or equivalent.
  • Follow safety rules, practices, and project-specific requirements. Perform pre-task planning prior to executing work and report any safety concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred.
  • Minimum 2-4 years' experience in construction inspection, steel fabrication, welding inspection, or other related construction experience.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

Required Qualifications:
  • Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.

At least one or more certifications in the following areas:
  • NICET Level II certification in Construction Materials Testing (Asphalt, Concrete, Soils).
  • NICET Level II certification in Geotechnical (Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist)
  • ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post-Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding).
  • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
  • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification (Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT)).
  • Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.
  • ACI certification* in one or more of the following areas:
  • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
  • Concrete Strength Testing Technician

*ACI certification not required if AWS CWI, ASNT Level II, VT, MT, PT, RT or UT certification(s) have been obtained and concrete field and laboratory testing is not required as part of the job level description.
  • Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation**.

**Nuclear Density Gauge operation certification not required if AWS CWI, ASNT Level II, VT, MT, PT, RT or UT certification(s) have been obtained and soils testing is not required as
About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
The chemistry that holds our materials team together is made of integrity, creativity, and care. We represent Terracon's largest technician and inspection workforce and ensure the materials used to build the nation's roads, bridges, airports, stadiums, and other structures are safe and sound. With our broad range of qualifications, specialized certifications, and building materials professionals, we are on-site, evaluating and testing materials in real-time to keep the pace of our clients' project, collecting and reporting data digitally to deliver critical insights. With our nationwide footprint of offices and laboratories, bench strength, flexibility, and diverse capabilities we identify issues and expedite solutions whenever problems arise.

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