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Welding Inspector Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

PIVOT Workforce

Mechanical QC Inspector

Charleston, TN · On-site

$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 ...

Taylor Machine & Welding Inc

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

nVent

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 ...

RCS Fabrication Inc

Welder

Trenton, GA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Use precision measuring tools to inspect grooves, angles, and weld quality * Operate powered saws, hand shears, and chipping tools as needed * Use portable grinders, hand files, and scrapers for ...

RCS Fabrication Inc

Welder

Trenton, GA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Use precision measuring tools to inspect grooves, angles, and weld quality * Operate powered saws, hand shears, and chipping tools as needed * Use portable grinders, hand files, and scrapers for ...

Surge Staffing

MIG Welder

Jasper, TN · On-site

$18.50/hr

Inspect completed welds for defects such as cracks, porosity, or poor fusion. * Maintain and clean welding equipment, including torches, cables, and wire feed assemblies. * Follow all safety ...

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Welding Inspector information

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How much do welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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.
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Welding Inspector jobs near you
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.

CERTIFIED WELDING INSPECTOR (CWI)

Teems Fabrication

Ringgold, GA • On-site

$24 - $32.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) ensures all welded fabrications meet structural standards, code requirements, and customer specifications. This role drives the quality assurance program on the shop floor through rigorous weld inspection, documentation, and process control.

Key Responsibilities

  • Visual Inspection: Conduct pre-weld, in-process, and post-weld visual inspections of all fabrications.
  • Code Compliance: Verify adherence to AWS, ASME, and AISC codes and standards.
  • Documentation Management: Maintain accurate inspection logs and non-conformance reports (NCRs).
  • Welder Qualification: Administer, log, and maintain welder performance qualification records (WPQR).
  • Procedure Verification: Ensure shop floor compliance with Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and Procedure Qualification Records (PQR).
  • Nondestructive Testing (NDT): Perform or coordinate NDT methods including Visual (VT), Liquid Penetrant (PT) and Magnetic Particle (MT) testing.
  • Defect Resolution: Identify weld defects, determine root causes, and direct rework operations.
  • Collaboration: Partner with production supervisors to improve weld quality, efficiency, and shop throughput.

Qualifications and Skills

  • Certification: Current AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential required.
  • Experience: Minimum 3–5 years of inspection experience in a heavy metal fabrication environment.
  • Blueprint Reading: Expert ability to interpret structural blueprints, fabrication drawings, and welding symbols.
  • Tool Proficiency: Skilled with weld gauges, micrometers, calipers, and precision layout tools.
  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and welder coaching.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and stand for extended periods in a shop environment.