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Contract Welder Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

VOLT

NDT Tech Visual

Decatur, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

The NDT technician is part of a team that provides visual weld inspections and other non ... This is a Full Time, Contract opportunity. Shift: 2nd or 3rd shift Pay Rate: $23- $28 per hour *Pay ...

VOLT

NDT Tech Ultrasonic

Decatur, IL · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Magnetic particles (wet/dry), liquid penetrant, visual weld inspection and other non-destructive ... This is a Full Time, Contract opportunity. Pay Rate: $28- $35 per hour. *Pay range offered to a ...

Aerotek

Diesel Mechanic

Decatur, IL

$22 - $30/hr

Perform welding and cutting as needed for equipment repairs. * Read and interpret hydraulic and ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Decatur, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

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VOLT

NDT Radiography Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... weld engineering and manufacturing specifications. Individual is responsible for tracking and ... Contract opportunity. Shift: 2nd or 3rd shift Pay Rate: $26- $30 per hour *Pay range offered to a ...

All JobsContract Welder JobsContract Welder Jobs in Decatur, IL

Contract Welder information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do contract welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract welder in Decatur, IL is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by contract welders when working on diverse projects?

Contract welders often encounter varying project requirements, materials, and welding techniques depending on the client and industry. Adapting quickly to new work environments and safety protocols can be challenging, as each job site may have unique standards and equipment. Additionally, balancing multiple contracts and managing fluctuating workloads requires strong organizational skills and flexibility. Effective communication with project managers and other trades is essential to ensure project specifications are met and deadlines are achieved.

How much do independent contractor welders make?

Independent contractor welders typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, specialization, and project complexity. Their annual income can vary widely, often ranging from $40,000 to over $100,000, with higher earnings possible for those with specialized skills or certifications in industries like construction or manufacturing.

What Does a Contract Welder Do?

As a contract welder, you provide welding services as an independent contractor. You decide which jobs you take and handle advertising, scheduling, and other business related tasks. You work on a project from start to finish, sourcing your own materials, managing tools and equipment, and testing your work. Your duties are to plan the project, place the pipe, solder any connections, and troubleshoot any issues that arise while providing all supplies and labor. You work with blueprints, sketches, and 3D drawings and collaborate with clients to understand their project goals. A contract welder ensures all work meets industry regulations and safety requirements.

How to find contract welding work?

Contract welders can find work through online job boards, industry-specific websites, and networking with contractors or companies in need of welding services. Building a strong portfolio, obtaining relevant certifications, and maintaining good relationships with clients can also help secure contract opportunities. Many welders find work by applying directly to companies or through staffing agencies that specialize in skilled trades.

What is the difference between Contract Welder vs Pipe Welder?

AspectContract WelderPipe Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications, often specialized in pipe welding (e.g., API, ASME)
Work EnvironmentVarious sites, including construction, manufacturing, and maintenancePrimarily on pipelines, refineries, and industrial plants
Industry UsageUsed across multiple industries for diverse projectsSpecifically focused on pipe fabrication and installation
Work ScopeGeneral welding tasks, may include structural or fabrication workSpecialized in welding pipes and pipe fittings

Both Contract Welders and Pipe Welders require welding certifications and work in industrial environments. However, Contract Welders have a broader scope, working on various projects, while Pipe Welders specialize in pipe systems. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Contract welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually, especially if they work in high-demand industries, have specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience. Such earnings typically require working long hours, overtime, or in remote locations with hazardous conditions. Most welders earn significantly less, with top earners reaching high six-figure incomes through advanced skills and strategic job choices.

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

To thrive as a Contract Welder, you need excellent welding skills, a strong understanding of various welding techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by technical training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with welding machines, safety equipment, and certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective time management are essential soft skills for ensuring quality and efficiency. These skills and qualifications are crucial to produce safe, precise welds and to meet project specifications and deadlines in diverse work environments.

What are contract welders?

Contract welders are skilled tradespeople who are hired on a temporary or project basis to perform welding tasks for various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, or shipbuilding. Unlike full-time employees, they work under a contract for a specified period or until a particular project is completed. Contract welders may specialize in different welding techniques and often provide their own tools and equipment. Their responsibilities typically include reading blueprints, preparing materials, and ensuring high-quality welds that meet industry standards.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Contract welders with specialized skills in areas such as pipeline, structural, or aerospace welding can earn around $50 an hour or more, especially with certifications like AWS or ASME. High-demand industries and overtime opportunities often contribute to higher pay rates for experienced welders working in demanding environments or on complex projects.
More about Contract Welder jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Welder jobs in Decatur, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Contract Welder jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Welder jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Contract Welder jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Contract Welder job openings:
Contract Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Welder job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,911 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Outside Sales Representative - Martinez Area, CA

Outside Sales Representative - Martinez Area, CA

Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.

Decatur, IL

Other

Posted 29 days ago

Matheson rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 74 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Sells products for MATHESON to business and industrial establishments or individuals at sales office, store, showroom or customer's place of business by performing the following duties.



Essential Functions

Essential Function

Compiles lists of prospective customers for use as sales leads, based on information from newspapers, business directories, industry ads, trade shows, Internet Web sites, and other sources.

Travels throughout assigned territory to call on regular and prospective customers to solicit orders, or talks with customers on sales floor or by phone.

Displays or demonstrates product, using samples or catalog, and emphasizes salable features.

Quotes prices and credit terms and prepares sales contracts for orders obtained.

Estimates date of delivery to customer, based on knowledge of own firm's production and delivery schedules.

Prepares reports of business transactions and keeps expense accounts.

Works with inside sales and route sales representatives to keep account activities and literature up to date.

Coordinates customer training.

Enters new customer data and other sales data for current customers into computer database.

Develops and maintains relationships with purchasing contacts.

Investigates and resolves customer problems with welding processes, equipment and deliveries.

Attends trade shows.

Performs inside sales when needed.

Assists with semi-annual inventories.

Assists co-workers and customers with technical welding questions.

Assists in collecting outstanding account balances.

Perform other projects and duties as assigned.

HOURS OF WORK: Typical hours for this position are going to match the requirements of the customer base Monday through Friday. This is a full-time position


Required for All Jobs

Performs other duties as assigned

Complies with all policies and standards


What Matheson employees say

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