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Welding Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform Certified Welding Inspection (CWI) services for commercial, industrial, and/or public works construction projects * Review approved construction drawings, welding procedures, shop drawings ...

Perform Certified Welding Inspection (CWI) services for commercial, industrial, and/or public works construction projects * Review approved construction drawings, welding procedures, shop drawings ...

$45 - $55/hr

What You'll Do Quality Assurance & Inspection * Perform visual and destructive weld inspections to ensure compliance with AWS D1.1/D1.5, ASME, and DOT standards. * Monitor welding operations and ...

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

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Welding Inspection information

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$15

$26

$40

How much do welding inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding 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.

What are some common challenges faced by welding inspectors on construction sites?

Welding inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in harsh or confined environments, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring that welds comply with stringent codes and standards. They must frequently communicate findings to both welders and project managers, sometimes needing to resolve conflicts or clarify technical requirements. Staying updated with evolving industry standards and maintaining meticulous documentation are also key aspects of the role, requiring strong attention to detail and effective teamwork.

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 processes. The job typically involves working in various environments and may require physical stamina and adherence to safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Welding Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Welding Inspector, you need a solid understanding of welding processes, metallurgy, and quality standards, typically supported by certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and industry codes like ASME and API is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication skills help ensure precise evaluations and effective collaboration with teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of welded structures in various industries.

What is welding inspection?

Welding inspection is the process of examining welded joints to ensure they meet specific standards and requirements for quality, safety, and performance. Inspectors use various methods, including visual checks and non-destructive testing techniques, to detect defects such as cracks, porosity, or incomplete fusion. The goal is to confirm that welds are structurally sound and adhere to codes or project specifications. Proper welding inspection helps prevent failures, ensuring the integrity and safety of structures or products.

How much does a welder inspector make a year?

A welding 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 welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding inspection roles, especially those with certifications like AWS or ASME, can pay around $50 an hour or more, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled welders working in specialized fields such as aerospace, oil and gas, or heavy construction may also earn this rate, particularly with advanced certifications and in high-demand regions.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

In welding inspection, senior inspectors with advanced certifications such as ASNT Level III or API certifications tend to earn the highest salaries. Inspectors working in high-demand industries like oil and gas or aerospace, and those with specialized skills in non-destructive testing, generally make more money due to the complexity and safety requirements of their work.

What is the difference between Welding Inspection vs Welding Quality Control?

AspectWelding InspectionWelding Quality Control
CertificationsASNT, AWS CWIAWS QC1, CWI often preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections, field environmentsOffice and field, process oversight
Primary FocusVerifying welds meet standardsDeveloping and maintaining welding procedures
Employer UsageConstruction, manufacturing, oil & gasManufacturing plants, fabrication shops

Welding Inspection involves examining welds to ensure they meet quality standards, often requiring certifications like AWS CWI. Welding Quality Control focuses on developing procedures and overseeing welding processes. While both roles ensure weld integrity, Inspection is more about verification, whereas Quality Control emphasizes process management.

More about Welding Inspection jobs
What cities are hiring for Welding Inspection jobs? Cities with the most Welding Inspection job openings:
What states have the most Welding Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for Welding Inspection jobs include:
Infographic showing various Welding Inspection job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% 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.

Welding Inspector / Weld Engineer

S3 Connections LLC

Powder Springs, GA • On-site

$26.75 - $36.25/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Hiring: Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience: 4+ Years

We are seeking an experienced Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) to support quality assurance and inspection activities within industrial manufacturing and piping environments. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience inspecting welding operations, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and maintaining high levels of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities:
• Perform weld inspections before, during, and after fabrication activities
• Verify compliance with applicable industry codes, standards, and project specifications
• Review welding procedures, qualifications, and supporting documentation
• Identify and document welding defects and quality concerns
• Support corrective actions and quality improvement initiatives
• Interpret engineering drawings, welding symbols, and technical specifications
• Maintain inspection records and quality documentation
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and quality teams to resolve issues

Required Qualifications:
Active AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification
Experience with welding inspection and quality assurance activities
Knowledge of common welding processes and fabrication practices
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and welding symbols
Familiarity with inspection reporting and documentation
Experience working with stainless steel piping systems

Mandatory:

Active AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification (required)
Minimum 3+ years of welding inspection experience
Strong knowledge of welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, SAW, etc.)
Ability to read and interpret welding symbols and technical drawings
Proficient in inspection documentation and reporting
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Experience with stainless steel piping required. 

Nice to Have:
• Exposure to orbital welding
• Experience with NDT methods such as PT, MT, UT, or RT