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Welding Inspector Trainee Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

NDT Inspector L2 - Eddy Current

Kent, WA · On-site

$32.11 - $48.16/hr

Collaborate directly with engineering, manufacturing, and welding teams to schedule inspections ... Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to Level I technicians and trainees to support team ...

NDT Inspector L2 - Eddy Current

Kent, WA · On-site

$32.11 - $48.16/hr

Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to Level I technicians and trainees to support team ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). * Experience performing ...

... trainees and NDE Level I personnel * Organize and report the results of any assigned NDT * Follow ... inspection * CWI or ICC welding certification * Prior Level II certification in MT & UT

... trainees and NDE Level I personnel * Organize and report the results of any assigned NDT * Follow ... inspection * CWI or ICC welding certification * Prior Level II certification in MT & UT

... trainees and NDE Level I personnel * Organize and report the results of any assigned NDT * Follow ... inspection * CWI or ICC welding certification * Prior Level II certification in MT & UT

Trailer Mechanic

Sumner, WA

$25.19 - $35.98/hr

At least 1 year of experience in DOT inspections, FHWA inspections, and air brakes * Able to supply ... Basic welding skills (MIG and stick ) * Ability to effectively transmit, receive, and accurately ...

... trainees and NDE Level I personnel * Organize and report the results of any assigned NDT * Follow ... inspection * CWI or ICC welding certification * Prior Level II certification in MT & UT

Welding Inspector Trainee information

What is a welding inspector trainee?

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 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.

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 most commonly searched types of Welding Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Welding Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Welding Inspector Trainee jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Welding Inspector Trainee jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

NDT Inspector L2 - Eddy Current

Stoke Space

Kent, WA • On-site

$32.11 - $48.16/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Currently a Level I but ready for the next step? We want builders who want to grow. Stoke Space will pay for the training and testing required to get you to Level II!
Stoke Space is building a fully reusable orbital launch system by re-thinking how spacecraft are designed, built, and inspected from first principles. As a key member of our Assembly team, you will be a frontline guardian of quality and reliability, responsible for performing critical eddy current inspections on flight-critical hardware. Your meticulous work will directly ensure the safety and integrity of our vehicle. Success in this role requires more than just technical skill; it demands a mindset of extreme ownership, the ability to break down complex problems into their fundamental elements, and an unwavering commitment to quality. You must be agile, focused, and ready to learn on the fly in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where trust and honesty are fundamental.
Responsibilities

  • Set up, calibrate, and operate equipment to perform Eddy-Current inspections on flight-critical hardware- including welds, tubes, and complex machined components- in accordance with industry standards and internal procedures.
  • Interpret, evaluate, and disposition inspection results against engineering drawings and acceptance criteria, creating detailed and accurate reports to document all findings.
  • Collaborate directly with engineering, manufacturing, and welding teams to schedule inspections, clearly communicate findings, and provide feedback on hardware quality.
  • Assist in developing, refining, and validating NDT procedures and inspection techniques, particularly for new products and complex geometries.
  • Provide guidance, training, and mentorship to Level I technicians and trainees to support team development and ensure consistent quality.
  • Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement by staying current with industry advancements and assisting in the research of new inspection capabilities.

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be certified Level II NDT inspector in line with ASNT SNT-TC-1A, NAS-410, or DOD guidance in Eddy Current(ET) OR an experienced Level I. (Stoke Space will pay for the training and testing required to get you to Level II!)
  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and acceptance criteria.
  • Strong understanding of relevant industry standards, such as  AWS D17.1.
  • Exceptional communication skills, a high degree of ownership over your work, and a strong commitment to quality.

 Preferred Qualifications

  • Additional NDT Level II or III certifications in methods such as Radiography (RT), Visual (VT), or Penetrant (PT).
  • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
  • Experience performing inspections within the aerospace industry, particularly on weldments and advanced materials (e.g., superalloys, titanium, high-strength aluminum).
  • Knowledge of additional aerospace standards (e.g., NASA, AMS, ASME).
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and formal problem-solving techniques (e.g., 8D, PPS).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and experience with NDT-specific software.

Additional Requirements

  • Must meet minimum vision requirements, including 20/25 (Snellen) at 16" or equivalent.
  • Must be willing to work overtime and occasional weekends as needed.
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs.

Benefits

  • Equity - We know that our employees are the reason we succeed. To give everyone a stake in our future, we are pleased to offer equity in the form of stock options to all regular, full-time employees. 
  • Comprehensive benefits program including subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance 
  • 401(k) plan with employer match 
  • 4 weeks' Paid Time Off  
  • Holidays - 10 days (including an end-of-year closure) 
  • Paid Family/Parental Leave  
  • On-site gym or monthly wellness stipend (depending on location) 
  • Dog friendly offices! 

Compensation

Target Levels:

  • Entry-Level / Junior: $26.25 - $38.52
  • Intermediate:$32.11 - $48.16
  • Senior: $40.13 - $60.17

Our job posts are intentionally written to attract a wide variety of experience levels, and we make decisions about the right fit on a per-candidate basis. 

Your actual level and base salary will be decided based on your specific experience and skill level.

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