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Contract Welder Jobs in Decatur, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Contract Welder information

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$12

$19

$27

How much do contract welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract welder in Decatur, TX is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $22.12 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Decatur, TX? The most popular types of Welder jobs in Decatur, TX are:
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What job categories do people searching Contract Welder jobs in Decatur, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Welder jobs in Decatur, TX are:
What cities near Decatur, TX are hiring for Contract Welder jobs? Cities near Decatur, TX with the most Contract Welder job openings:
Construction Inspector III- Water/Wastewater

Construction Inspector III- Water/Wastewater

AECOM

Fort Worth, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


AECOM rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 79 rated construction


Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is actively seeking a Construction Inspector III for immediate employment in Fort Worth or Dallas,Texas. Our Construction Inspector position provides you an opportunity to work on exciting and large-scale water, wastewater, utility infrastructure, stormwater, and similar Public Right-of-Way projects. Each day you will provide construction inspection in an Owner's Agent or 3rd Party construction inspection role. Your primary purpose will be to inspect and enforce the contract requirements for pipeline, pumping facility, storage, and treatment plant projects.

The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Observe, inspect, and document the construction of underground utility and process treatment plant related structures as an Owner's Representative.
  • Ensure compliance with design plans and specifications and permit requirements.
  • Document contractor progress, maintain accurate quantity records, process payment requests, generate punch lists, and certify completion status.
  • Document site activities accurately by maintaining accurate and current field books, construction reports, and as-built record drawings.
  • Coordinate with City personnel, client, contractor, and project stakeholders during course of the projects.
  • Coordinate with third party materials testing firms for concrete, soil, and weld testing.
  • Advocate for site safety and coordinate with public for safety awareness.
  • Monitor and track additional work, change order work, or force account work.
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree and 4+ years of progressively challenging experience on major construction projects performing Construction Inspection and Quality Assurance/Control or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
  • US citizens or permanent residents only (no sponsorship available).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Construction inspection experience working on Utility Infrastructure, Water Distribution, Wastewater Collection, Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants, Stormwater, Paving, and similar Public Right-of-Way Improvements projects.
  • Experience working in/for municipal agencies or utility infrastructure organizations.
  • Experience in reviewing technical specifications, drawings, and project documentation in a construction environment.
  • Experience with simultaneously inspecting multiple projects.
  • Ability to respond proactively in a high-paced environment and willingness to adjust and respond effectively to changes.
  • Must have demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers to prepare reports using Microsoft Office programs.
  • Accreditations and certifications through ICC, ACI, and AWS other Special Inspection areas preferred.

Additional Information

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 


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