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1099 Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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1099 Welding information

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$24

$41

$56

How much do 1099 welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1099 welding in the United States is $41.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $47.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between 1099 Welding vs 1099 Pipefitter?

Aspect1099 Welding1099 Pipefitter
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)Pipefitting certifications (e.g., NCCER, API)
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, repair shopsIndustrial plants, construction sites, refineries
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, repairOil & gas, industrial, construction

Both 1099 Welding and 1099 Pipefitter roles are independent contractor positions requiring specialized certifications. While they share similar work environments and industry applications, welders focus on joining metal parts through welding techniques, whereas pipefitters install and maintain piping systems. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right freelance or contract role based on skills and industry focus.

What are 1099 welding jobs?

1099 welding jobs refer to welding positions where the worker is classified as an independent contractor rather than an employee. This means welders are responsible for paying their own taxes, securing their own health insurance, and handling business expenses. These jobs often offer more flexibility and higher pay rates, but they do not come with traditional employee benefits. 1099 welders typically find work on a project-by-project basis and must manage their own schedules and contracts.

How much do independent contractor welders make?

Independent contractor welders typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, specialization, location, and project complexity. Annual income can range from $40,000 to over $100,000 for those with advanced skills and steady work, especially in high-demand industries like construction and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by 1099 welders working as independent contractors?

1099 welders often encounter challenges such as managing their own taxes, securing consistent work, and providing their own equipment and insurance. Since they operate independently, they must be proactive in networking and building client relationships to maintain a steady workflow. Additionally, balancing multiple projects and adapting to diverse job sites can require flexibility and strong organizational skills, but these challenges can also provide valuable experience and opportunities for higher earnings.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Earning $300,000 as a 1099 welder is possible but typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills such as pipe or underwater welding, high-demand projects, and working in high-paying industries or regions. Most welders earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, but top earners with certifications and overtime can reach higher income levels. Achieving $300,000 often involves working as an independent contractor on large or complex projects over multiple years.

Can you make $100,000 a year welding?

Welding jobs can pay $100,000 or more annually for experienced welders working in high-demand industries, such as construction, manufacturing, or pipeline work, especially with specialized skills like pipe welding or certifications like AWS. Achieving this income typically requires significant experience, certifications, and often working overtime or in remote locations. Entry-level welders usually earn less, but income potential increases with skill development and job complexity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1099 Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1099 Welder, you need advanced welding skills, knowledge of metal fabrication techniques, and usually certification from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS). Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, and the ability to read blueprints and technical drawings are essential, along with experience using tools such as MIG, TIG, or stick welders. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and self-management are standout soft skills, especially since independent contractors often work unsupervised. These skills are vital for delivering high-quality workmanship, maintaining safety standards, and building a successful reputation as an independent welder.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding jobs that pay $50 an hour typically include specialized roles such as pipe welders, underwater welders, and industrial welders with certifications like AWS or ASME. These positions often require advanced skills, experience, and sometimes hazardous environment work, which contribute to higher pay rates.
More about 1099 Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for 1099 Welding jobs? Cities with the most 1099 Welding job openings:
What states have the most 1099 Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for 1099 Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 1099 Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 1099 Welding jobs are:
Infographic showing various 1099 Welding job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 37% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,554 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Welding Inspectors - Multiple Locations - Contract

Welding Inspectors - Multiple Locations - Contract

SGS

Knoxville, TN โ€ข On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Company Description
We are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. Our 98,000 employees operate a network of 2,650 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
Job Description
SGS is currently looking for Welding Inspectors in multiple locations throughout the USA. Work will be assigned on a as needed basis and will be paid for the hours/days and other applicable cost items for the hours/days spent on the assigned work. The work duration could be a day or several days or several weeks.
The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor agreement/sub-contractor agreement (1099) with SGS North America Inc.
Scope of work:
The scope of work includes:
  • Ensuring that welds and welding processes comply with codes, standards, specifications, and project requirements by performing visual inspections and also to witness & verify non-destructive tests & their reports.
  • Monitoring welding parameters and inspecting materials and equipment.
  • Quality document reviews including WPS / PQR, assessment of quality, and issue reports or recommendations for corrective actions to ensure the safety and structural integrity of welded components.
  • Verify that welders are qualified, and that welding procedures and specifications (WPS) are followed correctly.
  • Ensure all welding activities adhere to relevant industry codes (like ASME, AWS, API) and contractual requirements.
  • Perform pre-weld, in-process, and post-weld inspections to identify defects and ensure quality.
  • Conduct visual inspections of welded joints, checking dimensions, penetration, and bead formation.
  • Witness non-destructive testing (NDT) and interpret / verify results.
  • Visual inspection on the quality of welding and mechanical projects.
  • Ensure that materials, equipment, and safety regulations are followed.
  • Prepare detailed reports documenting inspection results, including any issues found.

Qualifications
  • Must have at least one of the following: AWS / CWI / CSWIP/API
  • Minimum of five (5) years industrial welding-related inspection experience. Two (2) of these years should be in Quality Assurance / vendor surveillance / shop inspections inspector.
  • Minimum of 5 - 10 years of industry experience (mainly Oil and Gas)
  • Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of welding inspections. Welding inspections experience at manufacturer shops / facilities.
  • Welding inspection experience of Pipeline, Equipment i.e. Pressure vessels, Heat exchangers, Pumps, etc.. would be an asset.
    Work schedule is Monday to Friday - 8 to 10 hours/day
  • Hourly rate - $40 to $45/hr + $0.70/km
  • No set schedule, the inspector will be contacted as needed.
  • If the inspection site is beyond a round trip of 200 miles from the inspector place of residence, a per diem may be considered.
  • The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor agreement/sub-contractor agreement (1099) with SGS North America Inc.

Additional Information
SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a callback. Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability.