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Welding Inspector Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

IMIA, LLC

NDT Ultrasonic Inspector LII

San Diego, CA

$40 - $50/hr

Provide on the job training for trainees and LI/LII inspectors * Administer examinations to NDT ... Have knowledge of welding joint design and joint fit up requirements * Ability to follow ...

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Welding Inspector Trainee information

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$38

How much do welding inspector trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding inspector trainee in California is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $24.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Welding Inspector Trainee during their initial months on the job?

As a Welding Inspector Trainee, one of the main challenges you'll encounter is learning to accurately interpret welding codes and standards while adapting to the fast-paced environment of construction or manufacturing sites. Trainees often need to quickly develop observational skills to identify welding defects and ensure proper documentation, all while working closely with experienced inspectors, welders, and engineers. Gaining confidence in communicating findings and recommendations, sometimes in high-pressure situations, is another key aspect of the learning curve. Support from mentors and a willingness to ask questions are invaluable during this period.

What is the difference between Welding Inspector Trainee vs Welding Inspector?

AspectWelding Inspector TraineeWelding Inspector
CertificationsBasic safety and introductory welding certificationsAdvanced certifications like AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused settings on job sitesIndependent inspections on construction, manufacturing, or industrial sites
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting inspectors, observing, learning inspection proceduresPerforming detailed weld inspections, ensuring code compliance

The main difference between a Welding Inspector Trainee and a Welding Inspector is experience and certification level. Trainees are in learning mode, assisting experienced inspectors, while inspectors are fully qualified professionals responsible for conducting inspections independently.

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

To thrive as a Welding Inspector Trainee, you need a solid understanding of welding processes, basic metallurgy, and blueprint reading, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant training. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and a willingness to pursue certifications like AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) are typically expected. Attention to detail, strong observation skills, and effective communication help trainees accurately assess weld quality and collaborate with welders and supervisors. These skills ensure safe, high-quality welds and compliance with industry standards, which are critical for structural integrity and project success.

Are welding inspectors in demand?

Welding inspectors are in steady demand across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy, especially as safety standards and quality control become more stringent. Employment opportunities often require certifications like AWS or ASME, and the role typically involves inspecting welds using tools like ultrasonic or radiographic equipment. The need for qualified inspectors is expected to grow with ongoing infrastructure projects and industrial maintenance.

Can you become a welding inspector without welding experience?

Welding inspector trainees typically do not need prior welding experience, but understanding welding processes and standards is important. Many employers provide training and require certification exams, such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), which assess knowledge of welding codes and inspection techniques.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding inspector trainees can earn around $50 an hour once they gain experience and certifications such as AWS or ASME. Skilled welders working in industrial, construction, or pipeline environments with advanced certifications and specialized skills can also reach or exceed this pay rate. Experience, location, and the complexity of projects influence earning potential in welding jobs at this level.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Welding Inspector Trainees typically do not earn $300,000 annually, as this high salary is usually associated with experienced welders or inspectors in specialized industries like oil and gas or aerospace. Achieving such income often requires advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-paying sectors or locations. Entry-level trainees generally earn significantly less during training and early employment stages.

What are Welding Inspector Trainees?

Welding Inspector Trainees are individuals who are learning to inspect welded joints and structures to ensure they meet specific codes, standards, and safety regulations. Under the supervision of experienced inspectors, trainees gain hands-on experience in visual inspections, reviewing documentation, and understanding weld procedures. They typically assist with identifying welding defects, measuring weld dimensions, and reporting findings. This role is essential for developing the skills and knowledge needed to become a certified welding inspector in the future.
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding Inspector jobs in California? The most popular types of Welding Inspector jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Welding Inspector Trainee jobs in California? For Welding Inspector Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Welding Inspector Trainee jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Welding Inspector Trainee jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Welding Inspector Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Welding Inspector Trainee job openings:
Welding Inspector Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welding Inspector Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,032 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

NDT VT, MT, PT Inspector, Level II-San Diego,California

International Marine and Industrial Applicators

Bonita, CA

$35/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
IMIA,LLC is the only national marine surface preparation painting contractor servicing every U.S. Port with a mobile full time workforce that ensures that a quality product is delivered on time every time. IMIA, LLC has the equipment, seasoned deckplate supervision and mechanics, as well as rigorous corporate safety and quality programs and financial strength to support our customer's preservation needs in a truly superior and comprehensive fashion.
IMIA, LLC offers a comprehensive benefit package to eligible employees. Eligible employees may enroll in:
• Health
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• LTD
• Accident
• Critical Illness
• 401k
Employees and their household members are also eligible to participate in the company's Employee Assistance Program.
Per Diem OR Dislocation Allowance may be provided to eligible employees to reimburse some or all of the cost an employee might be reasonably expected to incur for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses while traveling out of town for work.
EOE Statement
IMIA, LLC is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, age, sex, disability status, marital status, status as a covered veteran, genetics, or any other protected groups under state, federal or local Equal Opportunity Laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including but not limited to hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.
Description
JOB TITLE: NDT VT, MT, PT Inspector, Level II
REPORTS TO: NDT Examiner, LIII
PAY RANGE: $30.00 - $35.00/Hourly DOE
Employees are eligible for a $2,000.00 bonus if certification in all methods is achieved within 90 days of employment start date.
LOCATION: San Diego, CA
**If selected for employment, in-person NDT certification testing in Bremerton, WA or Chesapeake, VA is required. Expenses associated will be covered by IMIA**
Summary of position: NDT inspector level II will perform VT, MT and PT inspections on surface ship and submarine structure. Required to perform miscellaneous tasks, as assigned by his or her supervisor.
Required Education: High school graduate, or GED
Responsibilities:
  • Performs physical inspections of completed welds and materials on board surface ships and submarines
  • Work to approved company inspection procedures
  • Assist with Reviews and writing procedures/standards for VT, MT, and PT processes
  • Provide on the job training for trainees and LI/LII inspectors
  • Ensure work is done safely and meets quality standards
  • Keep work areas clean and organized and take proper care of all equipment and facilities
  • Follow all company rules and policies
  • Provide a great level of attention to detail and focus on the given task
  • Follow all safety rules and quality standards
  • Work with team members to maximize productivity and efficiency
  • Report any unsafe work conditions or practice to supervisor
  • Perform other inspection/Quality Assurance/Planning duties as deemed necessary in support of the projects being worked

Qualifications:
  • Qualified NDT VT, MT, and **PT Inspector Level II IAW NAVSEA requirements in Tech pub 271 (**PT is preferred but not required.)
  • Experience with SMAW, GTAW and GMAW welding highly preferred
  • Have knowledge of welding joint design and joint fit up requirements
  • Ability to follow instructions given both verbally and in written form
  • Willingness to learn and work to the best of his/her abilities and have a dependable work ethic
  • Ability to read and interpret documents furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form including but not limited to safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, quality manuals and procedure manuals
  • Familiarity with the metric system
  • Ability to stand continuously for long periods of time
  • Willing to work 40+ hours a week
  • Pass substance abuse testing

Physical Requirements:
  • Regularly required to walk; frequently required to stand, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, balance, or crawl at various heights and in confined spaces; occasionally required to sit; required to reach with hands and arms, use hands to feel, grip, or handle; regularly required to safely lift and/or move up to 50 pounds; required use of vision to see up close, distance, and peripherally, as well as depth perception and ability to adjust focus in low light conditions. May be required to wear a respirator to safely perform assigned tasks.
  • Travel often required

Mental Requirements: Must be able to carry out simple to complex instructions in a safe and efficient manner.
Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Location
California
Salary Range
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
This position is currently accepting applications.

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