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Contract Rig Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rig Welder Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be ... Option for a contract pay rate of $80/hr flat or the other. Working area: PA, WV and OH - Utica ...

Welder

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

We Make Products That Matter PEKO is a full-service, debt-free, privately-owned contract ... Rig and lift heavy objects safely * Additional duties as needed and assigned. Required ...

Welder

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

We Make Products That Matter PEKO is a full-service, debt-free, privately-owned contract ... Rig and lift heavy objects safely * Additional duties as needed and assigned. Required ...

Welder

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

We Make Products That Matter PEKO is a full-service, debt-free, privately-owned contract ... Rig and lift heavy objects safely * Additional duties as needed and assigned. Required ...

Welder

Rochester, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

We Make Products That Matter PEKO is a full-service, debt-free, privately-owned contract ... Rig and lift heavy objects safely * Additional duties as needed and assigned. Required ...

We Make Products That Matter PEKO is a full-service, debt-free, privately-owned contract ... Rig and lift heavy objects safely * Additional duties as needed and assigned. Required ...

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Contract Rig Welder information

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$5

$46

$83

How much do contract rig welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract rig welder in the United States is $46.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.86 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract rig welder?

A contract rig welder is a skilled tradesperson who provides welding services on a contractual basis, often at remote job sites like oil fields, pipelines, or construction projects. They typically operate their own welding rig truck, which is equipped with all necessary tools and welding equipment. Contract rig welders are responsible for fabricating, joining, and repairing metal components according to project specifications. Their work requires extensive knowledge of welding techniques, safety protocols, and the ability to work independently in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract rig welder?

To thrive as a Contract Rig Welder, you need advanced welding skills, a high school diploma or GED, and industry-recognized certifications such as AWS or ASME. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety systems, and often non-destructive testing tools is required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, high-quality welds in challenging environments, which is essential for both operational success and workplace safety.

What are some common challenges faced by contract rig welders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract rig welders often work in remote and physically demanding environments, sometimes with long hours and variable weather conditions. One common challenge is maintaining safety and quality standards under pressure to meet tight project deadlines. To manage these challenges, welders should prioritize communication with supervisors, adhere strictly to safety protocols, and regularly maintain their equipment. Building strong relationships with crew members also helps foster teamwork and support on the job.

What is the difference between Contract Rig Welder vs Pipeline Welder?

AspectContract Rig WelderPipeline Welder
CertificationsAWS D1.1, ASME, CWI (optional)AWS D1.1, ASME, CWI (optional)
Work EnvironmentOffshore rigs, oil & gas platforms, onshore drilling sitesPipeline construction sites, outdoor, often remote areas
Industry UsageOil & gas exploration, drilling operationsPipeline installation, maintenance, and repair

Contract Rig Welders and Pipeline Welders share similar certifications and work environments related to oil and gas industries. However, Contract Rig Welders typically work on offshore rigs and drilling platforms, while Pipeline Welders focus on pipeline construction and repair in outdoor or remote locations. Both roles require similar skills but differ mainly in their specific work settings and project types.

How much do contract rig welders get paid?

Contract rig welders typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They often work in offshore or onshore oil and gas environments, with some earning higher rates for specialized skills or hazardous conditions.

Where do contract rig welders get paid the most?

Contract rig welders tend to earn the highest wages in regions with active oil and gas industries, such as parts of the Gulf Coast and offshore drilling areas. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications like ASME or AWS, and working in remote or hazardous environments, which often offer higher compensation. Overall, locations with high demand for offshore or industrial welding typically provide the highest pay for contract rig welders.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Rig Welder jobs?

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What states have the most Contract Rig Welder jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Contract Rig Welder jobs look for?

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Infographic showing various Contract Rig Welder job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,884 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

$80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Jennmar rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

428th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Rig Welder
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
This person must be able to join metal parts, such as pipe or metal plates as specified by layout, blueprints, work orders, welding procedures or oral instructions. MUST HAVE YOUR OWN RELIABLE RIG, WELDER AND ALL TOOLS NEEDED.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Uses Stick, MiG, Tig, and Flux Core welding techniques of weld various components in flat, vertical, or overhead positions.
  • Must be able to read & understand weld symbols, weld procedures, mechanical and structural drawings.
  • Knowledge of OSHA guidelines and safe work practices.
  • Take measurements and plan layouts and procedures
  • Determine what welding equipment and methods to use based on requirements
  • Join components, repair holes and cut through materials using specialized welding equipment
  • Inspect surfaces and structures
  • Checks the weakness of work pieces and measures work pieces with straightedge or template to ensure the piece meets specifications.
  • Rig, hoist/lift & move materials.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
  • Required to adhere to all safety rules and regulations.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Must have your own reliable Rig including, but not limited to: welding machine, hand tools, power tools, and pipe specific equipment.

Pay/Benefits:
  • $40/hr
  • $15/hr Truck
  • $100/day Per-Diem
  • Health, Dental, Vision
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k)

*Option for a contract pay rate of $80/hr flat or the other.
Working area: PA, WV and OH - Utica Shale - 6 months of work
6-7 days a week 6a-6p
At JENNMAR Services, our employees are our most important assets and is committed to them with competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits plan, including 401(k). We are consistently employing individuals in the Coal, Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing and Industrial industries.

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