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Welding Inspector Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical QC Inspector

Charleston, TN

$21 - $27.75/hr

We are seeking a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) for a mechanical QC role focused on piping systems within a gas plant setting. The ideal candidate will have experience with stainless and carbon ...

Welder

Stevenson, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Determine welding equipment or method based on job requirements * Inspect and repair if necessary * Operate all necessary equipment Requirements: Required Skills: 2 year welding experience

Welder

Stevenson, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Determine welding equipment or method based on job requirements * Inspect and repair if necessary * Operate all necessary equipment Requirements: Required Skills: 2 year welding experience

In this role, you will inspect fabricated and welded products to ensure they meet quality standards and customer specifications. The ideal candidate has experience in metal fabrication, can interpret ...

In this role, you will inspect fabricated and welded products to ensure they meet quality standards and customer specifications. The ideal candidate has experience in metal fabrication, can interpret ...

Fabrication Operator - Welding

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

As a Welder at our Chattanooga facility, you will interpret blueprints, perform layout work, and ... Inspect welds for quality, repairing defective joints as needed. * Operate cutting torches and ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Signal Mountain, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... inspect metal prior to welding to ensure clean welds. • Perform grinding operations that comply with Astec's standards. Key Activities & Responsibilities • Ability to perform grinding and be able ...

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Welding Inspector information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$14

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$37

How much do welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding inspector in Chattanooga, TN is $23.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $29.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a welding inspector do?

A Welding Inspector is responsible for ensuring that welded structures and components meet specific standards and codes for quality and safety. They review welding procedures, inspect welds visually and with testing methods, and document compliance with regulations. Welding Inspectors work in industries like construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas, helping to prevent defects that could lead to structural failures. Their role is crucial for maintaining the integrity and reliability of welded products.

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 inspection standards, typically supported by certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or CSWIP. Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, welding codes, and inspection tools is essential. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication help inspectors accurately assess weld quality and convey findings. These skills ensure welding work meets safety and regulatory standards, preventing costly failures and ensuring structural integrity.

What are some common challenges welding inspectors face on the job, and how can they effectively address them?

Welding Inspectors often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with strict safety and quality standards, interpreting complex blueprints or welding codes, and navigating communication between welders and management. To address these issues, inspectors must maintain up-to-date certifications, develop strong attention to detail, and foster clear, respectful communication with team members. Staying organized and proactive in documentation also helps Welding Inspectors manage multiple projects and ensure all work meets regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Welding Inspector vs Welding Supervisor?

AspectWelding InspectorWelding Supervisor
CertificationsCertified Welding Inspector (CWI) often requiredMay hold CWI or supervisory certifications, but focus is on management
Work EnvironmentInspecting welds on-site or in fabrication shopsOverseeing welding teams and ensuring quality standards
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, construction, oil & gasFound in similar industries, with added managerial responsibilities

The main difference is that a Welding Inspector focuses on inspecting and ensuring weld quality, while a Welding Supervisor manages welding teams and oversees the entire welding process. Both roles require certifications like the CWI, but their responsibilities and daily tasks differ significantly.

Are welding inspectors in high demand?

Welding inspectors are in high demand across industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy due to the need for quality control and safety compliance. The job outlook is strong, especially for those with certifications like AWS or ASME, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as infrastructure and industrial projects increase.

How do you become a welding inspector?

To become a welding inspector, individuals typically need to complete relevant training or education in welding technology or inspection, gain work experience in welding or fabrication, and obtain certification from recognized organizations such as the American Welding Society (AWS) or the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). Certification often requires passing written and practical exams and maintaining ongoing education. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of welding codes and standards, and familiarity with inspection tools are essential for success in this role.

How hard is it to be a welding inspector?

Becoming a welding inspector requires technical knowledge of welding processes, attention to detail, and often certification such as AWS CWI. The job involves inspecting welds in various environments, which can be physically demanding and requires ongoing training to stay current with industry standards.

What are popular job titles related to Welding Inspector jobs in Chattanooga, TN?

For Welding Inspector jobs in Chattanooga, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Welding Inspector jobs in Chattanooga, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Welding Inspector jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Welding Inspector jobs?

Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Welding Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Welding Inspector job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,633 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Construction Inspector - Welding/Coating

Accura Engineering

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Construction Inspector- Welding/Coating
Work Location: Russellville, AL
Salary: Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview
REQUIREMENT- Must be a US Citizen and must pass a federal background review and drug screen
Duties/Responsibilities
  • Observe, inspect, and provide reports on construction projects at federal facilities for compliance with plans and specifications in regard to workmanship, materials, installation, and construction methods.
  • Perform construction welding inspections relating to steel fabrication.
  • Services will required fabrication shop practices including storage, handling, cutting, bending, machining, fit-up, surface prep, welding, bolting, erection and coatings.
  • Perform coating inspections and testing of various coating systems and methods of application.
  • Perform structural bolting inspections and testing of various bolting methods and installation.
  • Provide recommendations or necessary changes to government personnel regarding contract plans and specification relative to all phases of construction.
  • Monitor contractor's quality system and administer the three-phase inspection process.
  • Provide surveillance at construction sites and assists owner in problem resolution.
  • Deliver and review change orders; modification; RFIs; and submittals.
  • Monitor contractor's schedule.
  • Review and ensure QA and safety plans are adhered to by the contractor.
  • Utilize Resident Management System (RMS).

Education/Experience:
  • High School graduate with 5 years of experience with construction welding inspections and 2 years of experience in coating inspections and structural bolting inspections.
  • AWS Certified Welding Inspector in conformance with AWS QC1 and shall have a minimum of five (5) years of experience relating to steel fabrication.
  • Nondestructive testing (NDT) personnel shall be qualified to ASNT.
  • Coating inspection and must have NACE Level I or higher or SSPC Protective Coatings Inspector Level 1 or higher and shall have received formal training in coating inspections and testing of various coating systems and methods of application. The individual shall have a minimum of two (2) years of experience in inspection and testing of coating systems.
  • Structural Bolting Inspection experience and must be certified in accordance with AASHTO G4.2 guidelines and have received formal training in structural bolting inspections and testing of various bolting methods and installation is preferred.
  • Experience with Three-Phase QC/Inspection process
  • Experience preferred EM 385-1-1 USACE Safety Manual
  • Experience preferred with Resident Management System (RMS)

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Retirement savings plan with company match.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
  • A supportive and collaborative work environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer (U.S.) all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Accura uses E-Verify in its hiring practices to achieve a lawful workplace. www.dhs.gov/everify