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Contract Rig Welder Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

1-800-PACK-RAT

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Weld plastic (roofs/panels) * Perform all cutting operations utilizing all standard shop equipment ... Safely rig materials for lifting * Adhere to all safety policies and perform all tasks in a safe ...

1-800-PACK-RAT LLC

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Nashville, TN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Weld plastic (roofs/panels) * Perform all cutting operations utilizing all standard shop equipment ... Safely rig materials for lifting * Adhere to all safety policies and perform all tasks in a safe ...

All JobsContract Rig Welder JobsContract Rig Welder Jobs in Tennessee

Contract Rig Welder information

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$4

$42

$75

How much do contract rig welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract rig welder in Tennessee is $42.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.63 and $43.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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, and why are they important?

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 the most commonly searched types of Rig Welder jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Rig Welder jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Rig Welder jobs in Tennessee? For Contract Rig Welder jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Rig Welder jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Rig Welder jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Contract Rig Welder jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Contract Rig Welder job openings:
Contract Rig Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Rig Welder job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 22% Contract, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,934 per year, or $42.3 per hour.
Structural Ironworker - (Welding)

Structural Ironworker - (Welding)

Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Brasfield & Gorrie rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Responsibilities
Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Structural Ironworker - (Welding). Below are the main responsibilities for this position.
(This description may not include all duties required of this position)
  • Develop complete understanding of contract plans and specifications and plan, lay-out, install assemble and erect steel components in accordance with those plans and specifications.
  • Read and understand plans and specifications, including steel inventories. Visualize two dimensional drawings in three dimensions.
  • Follow established jobsite safety and regulations and maintain a safe and clean work area.
  • Use appropriate hand and power tools to properly measure, cut, bend, thread, assemble, and erect steel and install all other related items in accordance with the applicable plans and specifications.
  • Shakeout steel into erectable sequence; rig steel members for crane hoisting with a thorough knowledge and use of crane signals
  • Guide steel members into position using tag line.
  • Connect steel members; bolt-up connections; rack structure; plumb and square; torque bolts to applicable specifications.
  • Pull, push, or pry steel members into approximate position while member is supported by crane.
  • Force member into final position using turnbuckle, ironbars, jacks and hand tools; align holes in member with corresponding holes in previously placed member using drift pins or handle of wrench through the holes.
  • Verify vertical and horizontal alignment of member using plumb bob and level.
  • Cut and weld members to make alterations, using oxyacetylene cutting and welding equipment.

Education - Skills - Knowledge - Qualifications & Experience
  • Communication Skills - Comprehend documents such as safety rules, operating maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. The ability to understand information, ideas, direction and then be able to perform the task or project discussed.
  • Must have a working knowledge of structural welding, use of cutting torches, and all aspects of ironworker techniques and methods.
  • Must have thorough knowledge of crane signals and rigging procedures.
  • Experience - Minimum 3 years' experience as an ironworker.

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