• Entry Level Salary

    $56,000

  • National Median Pay

    $65,000

  • Real Go-Getters Make

    $100,000+

  • Source: Emsi, 2022

Responsibilities

  • Review and approve welding procedures
  • Verify welder and welding procedure qualification compliance
  • Verify safety requirements compliance
  • Develop visual inspection procedures and provide NDE inspection planning/scheduling
  • Review contract requirements and vendor/contractor compliance
  • Develop, implement, or oversee quality control programs and measures

Education & Training

Education and training that can lead to a successful career may include:

Minimum Education

Associate degree in welding, metals fabrication, engineering technology, etc.

Recommended Education

Certificate in welding, metals fabrication, machining, robotic welding, etc.

Advanced Education

Bachelor’s degree in welding, material science, welding engineering, etc.

Recommended Training

Related welding work experience or previously a Certified Welder

Advanced Training

Apprenticeship program

Minimum Certification

AWS Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI)

Advanced Certification

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and Examination (NDE) Certifications. Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI)

Preferred Certification

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Essential Skills

  • Organized and detail oriented
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Highly motivated, self-directed, and strong leader
  • Effective written and verbal communication
  • Knowledgeable of weld discontinuities, materials, weldability characteristics, and filler metals
  • Interpret drawings, blueprints, and engineering documents

Work Environment

Many welding inspectors work in a variety of environments both inside and outside of the office that may include; manufacturing facilities, training centers, fabrication shops, and active constructions sites. Travel may be minimal or extensive given the nature of the work.

Skill Spotlight: Non-Destructive Testing & Examination

 Welding inspection often involves using different methods of non-destructive testing. In fact, many welding inspectors have a strong background or even hold non-destructive testing certifications to perform their job or to obtain advanced career opportunities. To learn more about NDT/NDE watch the video below:

The heat map below showcases the total number of job postings for Welding Inspectors in the last twelve months by state. As shown, the darker the color of the state, the higher the concentration of job postings. The heat map is intended to provide insight into areas where Welding Inspector careers are currently in demand.

Top Industries

Industrial

Industrial

Power Generation, Oil & Gas Pipelines, Food & Beverage Processing, Heavy Equipment
Manufacturing

Manufacturing

Automotive, Agricultural, Military & Defense, Maritime, Aviation, etc.
Professional

Professional

Training, Education, Engineering, Consulting

SIMILAR CAREERS

Want to explore other careers that have similar work environments, education, training, and responsibilities?

  • Welding Engineer
  • Radiographic Interpreter
  • Non-Destructive Testing Specialist