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Contract Welder Jobs in Rochester, NH (NOW HIRING)

United Support Services

Marine Welder

Kittery, ME · On-site

Respond to urgent calls outside of regular working hours as required by contract obligations ... Ability to pass a weld certification course. Experience with shipboard or industrial welding ...

United Support Services

Marine Welder

Kittery, ME · On-site

Respond to urgent calls outside of regular working hours as required by contract obligations ... Ability to pass a weld certification course. Experience with shipboard or industrial welding ...

United Support Services

Marine Welder

Kittery, ME · On-site

Duties and Responsibilities • Weld metal components to fabricate or repair barge structures ... This employment position is CONTINGENT upon a contract award to employer for the required services ...

RTX

Welder - Manufacturing

North Berwick, ME · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... What You Will Do Plan and perform hand fusion, machine welding or other associated metal joining ...

DRG

Welder Combination, Maintenance

Kittery, ME · On-site

This position is contingent upon contract award. The Welder Combination Maintenance position will support barge berthing and messing facility operations. This role performs structural, mechanical ...

New

RTX

Welder - Hiring Now

North Berwick, ME · On-site

$22.75 - $29.75/hr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... What You Will Do Plan and perform hand fusion, machine welding or other associated metal joining ...

RTX

Welder I, 2nd Shift (Onsite)

North Berwick, ME · On-site

$20.75 - $25.25/hr

S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance ... What You Will Do Plan and perform hand fusion, machine welding or other associated metal joining ...

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All JobsContract Welder JobsContract Welder Jobs in Rochester, NH

Contract Welder information

See Rochester, NH salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do contract welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract welder in Rochester, NH is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.23 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 Rochester, NH? The most popular types of Welder jobs in Rochester, NH are:
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What job categories do people searching Contract Welder jobs in Rochester, NH look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Welder jobs in Rochester, NH are:
Contract Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Welder job openings in Rochester, NH as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,316 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Marine Welder

United Support Services

Kittery, ME • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary:

United Support Services, Inc., founded in 2003, is an innovative engineering and technology business headquartered in San Diego, CA. We have an exciting new opportunity and are currently looking for an experiencedMarine Welderto provide support to U.S. Navy vessels in theKittery, MEarea. This position offers a competitive salary and unique opportunity to perform various shipboard duties.Military Veterans highly encouraged to apply!


Duties and Responsibilities
Weld metal components to fabricate or repair barge structures, equipment, fixtures, railings, ladders, and related shipboard components using arc and gas welding equipment.
Perform gas welding, brazing, and a variety of arc welding processes to complete fabrication and repair assignments.
Perform related tasks including thermal cutting, grinding, brazing, soldering, flame cutting, surface hardening, annealing, and metal spraying.
Repair broken or cracked metal components, fill holes, and increase the size of metal parts as required.
Apply knowledge of welding standards and welding characteristics of metals and alloys including steel, aluminum, nickel, brass, copper, bronze, magnesium, beryllium, and titanium.
Weld metal parts and structures of varying sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, including thin sheet metal and heavy stainless-steel plating requiring multiple welding passes.
Perform complete penetration and fusion welds in difficult-to-access locations.
Devise and utilize special jigs and fixtures to hold parts during welding operations as needed.
Utilize techniques such as preheating, heat sinks, and stress relieving to maintain dimensions and prevent distortion or damage to welded materials.
Operate manual and semi-automatic welding equipment, flame-cutting equipment, brazing and soldering equipment, and welding machines.
Operate metal shaping, straightening, and bending machines.
Utilize hand tools, portable power tools, and manually operated machine tools in support of welding operations.
Perform shaping, bending, fabricating, fitting, and assembly techniques associated with shipboard repair work.
Utilize rigging and hoisting equipment safely and effectively.
Respond to urgent calls outside of regular working hours as required by contract obligations.
Additional tasks and duties may be assigned.


Required Experience:
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Minimum of five (5) years of welding experience required.
Ability to pass a weld certification course.
Experience with shipboard or industrial welding operations preferred.
Knowledge of welding standards, procedures, and metal fabrication techniques.
Experience using welding, cutting, grinding, and metal shaping equipment.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
Ability to obtain and maintain military base access credentials and security clearance requirements.


Desired Skills:
Experience working in shipyard or naval vessel environments.
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
Familiarity with rigging and hoisting operations.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, layouts, and technical specifications.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
Knowledge of shipboard safety procedures and confined space operations.


ADA Notations:

The physical job requirement involves, but is not limited to, walking, reaching, bending-over, concentration in the presence of noise, lifting items up to 50 lbs., and traversing narrow passageways, climbing ladders/stairs, and operating in confined spaces onboard naval vessels, barges, and in buildings.


Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Retirement plan
Vision insurance


Special Conditions:

This employment position is CONTINGENT upon a contract award to employer for the required services, completion of applicants favorable employment background investigation, and the ability of applicant to obtain a military base access card and security clearance at all times during the period of employment.


Job Type:Full-time, Non-Exempt


United Support Services, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer.