Steel Erector
Madison, WI · On-site
$25 - $35/hr
Contract Pay: $25 to $35 Per Hour BOE Responsibilities: * Erect and install structural steel beams ... Rig steel loads for lifting and provide clear signals to crane operators for safe positioning.
Steel Erector
Madison, WI · On-site
$25 - $35/hr
Contract Pay: $25 to $35 Per Hour BOE Responsibilities: * Erect and install structural steel beams ... Rig steel loads for lifting and provide clear signals to crane operators for safe positioning.
Contract Rig Welder information
See Wisconsin salary details
$5.34 - $12.51
0% of jobs
$12.51 - $19.68
0% of jobs
$19.68 - $26.84
0% of jobs
$26.84 - $34.01
17% of jobs
$35.13 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$34.01 - $41.18
49% of jobs
$41.18 - $48.35
7% of jobs
$49.54 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$48.35 - $55.52
9% of jobs
$55.52 - $62.69
0% of jobs
$62.69 - $69.86
0% of jobs
$69.86 - $77.02
6% of jobs
$77.02 - $84.19
11% of jobs
$5
$47
$84
How much do contract rig welder jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract rig welder in Wisconsin is $47.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.19 and $48.51 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?
| Aspect | Contract Rig Welder | Pipeline Welder |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | AWS D1.1, ASME, CWI (optional) | AWS D1.1, ASME, CWI (optional) |
| Work Environment | Offshore rigs, oil & gas platforms, onshore drilling sites | Pipeline construction sites, outdoor, often remote areas |
| Industry Usage | Oil & gas exploration, drilling operations | Pipeline 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rig Welder jobs in Wisconsin?
The most popular types of Rig Welder jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Rig Welder jobs in Wisconsin?
For Contract Rig Welder jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Rig Welder jobs in Wisconsin look for?
The top searched job categories for Contract Rig Welder jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Contract Rig Welder jobs?
Cities in Wisconsin with the most Contract Rig Welder job openings:
Steel Erector
Madison, WI • On-site
Leapros Skilled Trades
$25 - $35/hr
Contractor
Medical, Dental, Vision
Posted 5 days ago
Job description
Leapros Skilled Trades is actively hiring Steel Erector in Madison, WI. This Steel Erector position focuses on the assembly and installation of structural steel frameworks for a warehouse construction project in Madison, WI. The ideal candidate will have experience in structural steel assembly, rigging, and connecting steel components according to engineering specifications and safety standards.
Job Type: Contract
Pay: $25 to $35 Per Hour BOE
Responsibilities:
- Erect and install structural steel beams, girders, and columns for warehouse construction projects.
- Position and align steel units using cranes, hoists, and other lifting equipment.
- Secure steel members by bolting and welding components according to blueprints and technical drawings.
- Install metal decking, joists, and bridging as part of the structural framework.
- Rig steel loads for lifting and provide clear signals to crane operators for safe positioning.
- Check alignment and plumb of structural steel to ensure precision in assembly.
- Assemble and secure steel structures using high-strength bolts and torqueing equipment.
- Follow all OSHA and site-specific safety regulations while working at heights.
- Organize and prep steel components on-site to maintain an efficient workflow.
- Maintain and inspect rigging gear and hand tools to ensure they are in safe working condition.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience working as a Steel Erector or Ironworker on structural steel projects.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting structural blueprints and assembly drawings.
- Experience with rigging, signaling, and safe load-handling procedures.
- Knowledge of structural welding and bolting techniques for large-scale steel assembly.
- Ability to work confidently and safely at significant heights using fall protection systems.
- Familiarity with warehouse-style construction and structural steel components.
- Mechanical aptitude and experience with ironworking hand and power tools.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Comfort working at heights on structural beams or aerial lifts.
- Capability to stand, walk, climb, and balance for the duration of a shift.
- Manual dexterity to handle hardware and tools in outdoor environments.
Pay Transparency:
The anticipated pay range for this position is $25 to $35 per hour, based on relevant factors such as experience, skills, education, internal equity, and geographic location. Final compensation will be determined during the interview process by the hiring authority.
Benefits Summary:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid Sick Time
- Employee assistance programs (EAP)
Leapros serves a tight community of proven, skilled tradespeople. As a team member, you are treated with the respect which your value has earned you. This means competitive pay, consistent work, a safety culture that starts at the top, and safety training.
We are committed to our core values and guiding ethical principles, to conducting business in a non-discriminatory manner, and to operating in strict compliance with applicable federal and state laws pertaining to Equal Employment Opportunity. To learn more about Leapros visit our website at www.leapros.com.
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