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Welding Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Westlake, LA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Houston, TX · On-site

$27 - $36.50/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Dallas, TX · On-site

$26 - $35.25/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$27 - $36.75/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Dallas, TX · On-site

$26 - $35.25/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Westlake, LA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

Thompson Engineering

Certified Welding Inspector

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$27 - $36.75/hr

This position is responsible for performing welding inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry standards across a variety of construction and ...

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Welding Inspector information

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$15

$26

$40

How much do welding inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding inspector in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a CWI worth it?

A Welding Inspector (CWI) is a skilled professional responsible for ensuring welds meet safety and quality standards, often requiring certification from the American Welding Society. The role offers good job prospects, especially in industries like construction, manufacturing, and energy, with opportunities for advancement and higher pay. However, it involves working in various environments, sometimes in challenging conditions, and requires ongoing training and certification renewal.

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.

How hard is it to become a welding inspector?

Becoming a welding inspector requires gaining relevant experience in welding or fabrication, completing specialized training, and obtaining certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). The process involves passing written and practical exams, and it can take several months to years depending on prior experience and training programs.

What do I need to become a welding inspector?

To become a welding inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in welding inspection. Certification from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) such as the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential is often required or preferred, along with knowledge of welding processes, codes, and safety standards.

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 type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the welding inspection field, senior-level inspectors with extensive experience, specialized certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), and those working in high-risk industries like oil and gas or aerospace tend to earn the highest salaries. Inspectors with advanced skills in nondestructive testing and leadership roles also typically receive higher pay.

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 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.

What Do Welding Inspectors Do?

Welding Inspectors are experienced welders whose role is to examine others’ work for quality control purposes. Welding, if not done correctly, can be flawed with cracks and imperfections that weaken the bond. Inspectors look for these irregularities and see that they are repaired so that they meet standard safety regulations. They rely on electrical instruments and visula tools to analyze the bond between metals safely. Those who want to move further in this career can become certified.

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Welding Inspector jobs near you

Certified Welding Inspector

Thompson Engineering

Lubbock, TX • On-site

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Thompson Engineering is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) to
join our inspection and quality assurance team. This position is responsible for performing welding
inspections and ensuring compliance with applicable codes, project specifications, and industry
standards across a variety of construction and industrial projects throughout the Southeast.
This role requires the ability and willingness to travel to project sites, including multi-state assignments,
and work in field environments as needed to support active construction operations.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform visual welding inspections in accordance with applicable codes and project specifications
(AWS, ASME, API, etc.)
• Verify compliance with approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and Procedure Qualification
Records (PQR)
• Confirm welder qualifications and maintain required documentation
• Interpret construction drawings, welding symbols, and technical specifications
• Document inspection findings, non-conformances, and corrective actions
• Coordinate and monitor non-destructive testing (NDT) activities as required
• Prepare daily field reports, inspection summaries, and supporting documentation
• Travel to various job sites, including out-of-town and multi-state assignments, as required
• Follow established safety policies and quality control procedures
• Communicate effectively with project managers, field staff, contractors, and clients
Qualifications
• Current Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification issued by the American Welding Society (AWS)
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree in welding technology or related field
preferred
• Minimum 3 years of welding inspection experience preferred
• Working knowledge of applicable welding codes such as AWS D1.1, API 1104, and ASME Section IX
• Strong understanding of welding processes and inspection techniques
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and digital reporting systems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
• Ability and willingness to travel frequently and work extended hours based on project needs
Physical and Work Environment Requirements
• Ability to work in outdoor and construction site environments
• Ability to stand for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform field-related tasks
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime and travel assignments, based on project needs

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