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Welding Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Construction Inspector I

Columbia, SC · On-site

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification (Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye ...

TERRACON

Construction Inspector I

Columbia, SC · On-site

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification (Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye ...

W.B. Guimarin

Welders Needed

Columbia, SC · On-site

$24/hr

Prepare pipe by cutting, beveling, threading, grooving, and fitting materials for welding. * Install valves, hangers, fittings, supports, and mechanical equipment. * Perform weld inspections and ...

TM Mobile Welding

Pipefitter

Winnsboro, SC · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Perform routine inspections and troubleshoot any issues with piping systems. * Utilize various welding techniques to join materials effectively. * Maintain tools and equipment in good working ...

TM Mobile Welding

Pipefitter

Winnsboro, SC · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Perform routine inspections and troubleshoot any issues with piping systems. * Utilize various welding techniques to join materials effectively. * Maintain tools and equipment in good working ...

TM Mobile Welding

Pipefitter

Winnsboro, SC · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Perform routine inspections and troubleshoot any issues with piping systems. * Utilize various welding techniques to join materials effectively. * Maintain tools and equipment in good working ...

Owen Steel

Welder

Columbia, SC · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Inspect completed welds to ensure structural integrity and quality standards * Operate hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment safely and properly * Follow all plant safety policies, OSHA ...

Aerotek

Structural Welder

Columbia, SC

$38 - $55/hr

Lay out, fit, and position components and assemblies prior to welding to ensure accurate alignment and fit-up. * Inspect welds visually and, where applicable, using basic measurement tools to verify ...

Thompson Construction Group, Inc.

Pipe Welder

Sumter, SC · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

May fit up parts (pipe, tube, structural shapes, or plate) and inspect fit before welding. * May be required to use Gas-Metal Arc, Flux-Cored Arc, Gas-Tungsten Arc, Submerged Arc, or Shielded-Metal ...

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All JobsWelding Inspector JobsWelding Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC

Welding Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$14

$24

$37

How much do welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding inspector in Columbia, SC is $24.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.24 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.
More about Welding Inspector jobs

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Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Welding Inspector job openings:

Welding Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welding Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,442 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Certified Weld Inspector *$5,000 Sign on Bonus*

AVANTech, LLC

Columbia, SC • On-site

$32 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Full time, hourly, non-exempt. Competitive salary range based on experience, skill level, and certifications. Rich benefit package, paid time off and flexible hours. Relocation available. This is a brief video about our company that demonstrates our mission and some of the products we manufacture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmsLx_fotIE
Who We Are:
Join the AVANTech Award-Winning Team this is an eco-friendly company that strives to conserve valuable resources, such as water and energy. We are searching for a NDE Technician/Certified Weld Inspector to join our team.
AVANTech is an innovative goal-oriented company specializing in water treatment solutions. Our products dramatically improve operations in industrial, commercial, and nuclear applications. ASME Section VIII pressure vessels, nuclear process equipment, water treatment systems as well as specialized systems for selective removal of radioactivity, boric acid purification and various contaminants of concern applications.
What Will Set You Up for Success:
  • Ability to perform day-to-day NDE activates.
  • Knowledge of Visual examination of materials,structures, or components for signs of corrosion, metal fatigue, cracks, orother flaws
  • Capable of executing inspection plans for pressurevessels, piping, and fabricated equipment.
  • Understanding, interpreting, and reviewing ofengineering drawings, as required
  • Documenting non-destructive examination methods,processes, and results
  • Interpreting inspection results in accordance withapplicable codes, standards, specifications, or procedures
  • Preparing inspection reports and communicatingfindings to appropriate parties.

A Day in the Life:
  • Weld Inspections/NDE and dimensional inspections.
  • Verify MaterialTesting and Documentation
  • Surveillance of Fabrication and Quality Controls
  • Ensuring all applicable paperwork is accurate and complete
  • Assist the Quality Assurance Manager in implementingAVANTech's NQA-1 Quality Control Program

Requirements:
  • Two years of experience as a Certified Weld Inspector (CWI)
  • Additional nondestructive certification (PT, MT, et.) a plus
  • Previouswelding experience a plus.
  • Thesuccessful Certified Weld Inspector must be proficient in all MS Office products.
  • Candidate must be capable of visually inspecting structural steel, piping, and pressure vessels internals.
  • Must have the ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, kneel, twist, pull, push, grip, and climb.
  • All candidates must be able to pass drug test, pre-employment physical, and background investigation.

Skills:
  • Strong work ethic; exceptional safety and quality awareness.
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Teamwork and ability to follow directions and procedures.

Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance with employer contributions.
  • 401(k) savings plan with employer match
  • Generous paid time off and holidays
  • Competitive market salary range based on experience, skill level, and certifications.
  • Flex hours available, first shift. Relocation available.
  • $5,000 sign on bonus

AVANTech, LLC isan Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

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