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Contract Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SGS

Welding (CWI) Inspector - Contract

Fort Plain, NY · On-site

$31/hr

SGS is currently hiring for two CWI (Welding Inspector) roles supporting multiple projects across New York and Pennsylvania . Role 1: * Start: May 8 * Duration: Through mid-October * Scope: Valve ...

C and L Inspection

Welding Inspector

Middletown, PA · On-site

... the Contract document as it relates to his or her duties on the project • Completing and ... welder is qualified for the work he is performing • Observe the x-ray procedure (including ...

Gulf

Sr. Welding Inspector

Asheville, NC

The Welding Inspector is responsible for communicating the client's requirements to the welding crews, determining whether the contract is being performed in a suitable manner, consulting with ...

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How much do contract welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract welding in the United States is $41.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $47.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Welding vs Pipe Welding?

AspectContract WeldingPipe Welding
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentVarious sites, including construction, manufacturing, maintenancePrimarily on pipelines, oil & gas, industrial plants
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, maintenance projectsOil & gas, water, and gas pipeline industries
Job ScopePerforming welds on different materials and structuresSpecialized welding on pipes and pipelines

Contract Welding involves performing welds across various industries and structures, often on different materials, while Pipe Welding focuses specifically on welding pipes, mainly in the oil, gas, and pipeline sectors. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and scope.

How do you get welding contracts?

To secure welding contracts, professionals should build a strong portfolio, obtain relevant certifications such as AWS welding certifications, and network with contractors and companies in the construction or manufacturing industries. Applying through online job boards, industry associations, and local bidding opportunities also helps in finding contract work. Demonstrating reliability, safety compliance, and technical skill is essential for winning contracts.

Why do welders age so fast?

Welders age faster due to exposure to intense heat, ultraviolet radiation, and harmful fumes during welding work, which can accelerate skin aging and cause respiratory issues. The physically demanding nature of the job and exposure to hazardous environments also contribute to faster physical decline if proper safety measures are not followed.

How to make $100,000 as a welder?

To earn $100,000 as a welder, professionals often work in high-demand industries such as oil and gas, construction, or manufacturing, and may need advanced certifications like AWS or ASME. Gaining specialized skills, working overtime, and taking on projects in remote or hazardous environments can increase earning potential, especially for those with several years of experience and a strong safety record.

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 proficiency in various welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a relevant welding certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as safety systems like OSHA regulations, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality, safe welds that meet project specifications and deadlines across diverse work environments.

How much do contract welders make per year?

Contract welders typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects. Skilled welders with certifications like AWS often command higher pay, especially for specialized or high-demand work environments.

What is contract welding?

Contract welding is a service where a welder or welding company is hired on a contractual basis to complete specific projects or tasks for a client. This can include anything from fabricating metal structures to repairing equipment. Contract welders may work on-site at a client’s location or in their own workshops, depending on the project requirements. This arrangement allows businesses to access specialized welding skills without committing to hiring full-time staff. It is commonly used in industries like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding.

How does a contract welder typically collaborate with other professionals on a job site?

Contract welders frequently work alongside other tradespeople such as fabricators, engineers, and project managers. Effective communication is essential for staying aligned with project specifications and timelines, especially as changes or challenges arise on the job. Welders are often responsible for interpreting blueprints and coordinating with other teams to ensure their work integrates seamlessly with broader construction or manufacturing processes. Building strong working relationships can help prevent delays and promote a safe, efficient work environment.
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Contract Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Welding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 38% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,554 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Welding/NDT Program Manager

Welding/NDT Program Manager

Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc.

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$30.75 - $42.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Posted yesterday

Job description

Position: Welding/NDT Program Manager
Location: Norfolk, VA
Company Overview:
Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. (Continental Tide) is an industry leader, providing engineering and industrial services to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other DoD organizations. At Continental Tide, we understand that a great company culture is one where employees know their voice is heard, no matter what their title is, and letting them grow in their role as the company does. We want to provide our employees with the opportunity to learn, be challenged and be in a position where they can succeed, develop new skills, and do things they wouldn't have the opportunity to do elsewhere. Our fast-paced and challenging environment, employees here at Continental Tide can catapult themselves to the top and we’re looking for "the best at what they do" to join our team and help us grow.
Strong attention to detail is essential as you will be fully engaged from the first day. We offer competitive wages in salaried and hourly positions, educational opportunities, competitive employee benefit options, and a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match. We are always looking for top-talent and we look forward to new-thinkers and team-players joining our company!
Job Overview:
Continental Tide is seeking an experienced Welding/NDT Program Manager to serve as the local Program Manager representative responsible for welding, fabrication, and non-destructive testing (NDT) operations in support of Naval Sea Systems Command ship repair availabilities. This role provides technical and programmatic oversight to ensure all welding and inspection activities are executed in full compliance with NAVSEA requirements, contract specifications, and quality standards. Fleet Services Group in Norfolk, VA. The successful candidate will be responsible for project management, installations, repair, and modernization initiatives onboard ships.

Essential duties amp; responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Act as company NDT Level III Examiner for Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT) after successful testing in accordance with NAVSEA Technical Publication T9074-AS-GIB-010-271 and ASNT SNT-TC-1A.
  • Performs weld procedure qualification, welder performance qualification and has a working knowledge of S9074-AQ-GIB-010-248. Maintains the welding program through surveillance, internal audits, and objective quality evidence.
  • Monitor and controls activities at job sites, office, and/or onboard vessels.
  • Ensure projects/initiatives progress as scheduled and contract specifications are adhered to.
  • Allocate labor, materials, and equipment to meet production schedules and critical path milestones
  • Oversee all welding and fabrication activities in accordance with Naval Sea Systems Command Standard Items (including 009-04), 9090-310 Technical Specifications, Naval Ships’ Technical Manual (NSTM), approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), and Technical Work Documents (TWDs).
  • Work with Senior Management, Program Managers and Project Leads with both Surface and Submarine Alterations, Repair or Fleet Modernization projects.
  • Direct execution of structural, piping, and mechanical welding repairs, ensuring adherence to quality standards and contract requirements.
  • Serve as primary interface with stakeholders coordinating tasking, resolving technical issues, and ensuring contract alignment and on-time execution.
  • Support proposal development efforts with welding and NDT technical inputs, including labor and material estimates.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance welding quality, efficiency, and compliance with NAVSEA best practices.
  • Support cross-functional program execution and assist Program/Project Managers in resolving production, technical, and resource challenges.
  • Analyze quality and production data to identify trends, reduce defects, and implement process improvements.
  • Perform other responsibilities and tasks assigned by management, based on the needs of the organization.
Requirements:
  • Must possess a REAL ID or U.S. Passport.
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET accredited college or university preferred.
  • Must meet the qualification requirements and for NDT Level III in accordance with ASNT SNT-TC-1A for education and experience.
  • Target five (5) years of experience in fabrication, design, installation, testing and/or repair of ships and ship systems aboard US Navy, Military Sealift Command and/or US Coast Guard ships.
  • Direct experience in ship repair and installation of Hull, Mechanical and Electrical (HM amp;E) systems and equipment on surface ships and submarines.
  • Ability to perform detailed ship checks involving collection of data necessary to develop the applicable design modifications for systems and components required to support the system design change
  • Ability to read and interpret ship installation drawings, installation specifications and NAVSEA Standard Items is a must.
  • Must have or have the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance and must be able to obtain DBIDS and be able to access local shipyards and US Navy bases.
  • Must be able to understand, read, and communicate in English as required for job instructions, safety information, and team communication.
  • Travel of up to 25% may be required within and outside of the continental United States.
  • Due to U.S. export control laws and regulations, candidates must be U.S. citizens or otherwise legally authorized to access export-controlled information.
Additional Requirements:
  • Exhibits strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
  • Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and collaborate effectively across teams.
  • Ability to work independently and execute multiple assigned tasks.
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Project and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook amp; Google Smartsheet).
Physical Requirements:
  • Exposure to open-air environments, including noisy, hot, and cold conditions.
  • Required to visit project sites aboard ships and rigs, both onshore and offshore.
  • Must wear various types of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hearing, eye, head, and hand protection, as required.
  • Site visits may involve standing on a variety of surfaces and angles, bending, crouching, and climbing over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge or boat structural component to sound levels exceeding 100 decibels.
  • Must possess sufficient visual acuity, peripheral vision, depth perception, and night vision to inspect marine components and systems, identify defects or irregularities, and safely operate tools and equipment.
  • May work in confined spaces with limited ventilation.
  • Requires prolonged periods of sedentary work, including sitting and/or standing.
  • May be required to operate machinery, power tools, and/or heavy equipment.
  • Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
Reasonable Accommodations Statement:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must perform the essential job duties satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to the safety or health of employee or others. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits:
Continental Tide offers an empowering professional environment in a culture that emphasizes teamwork, shared responsibility for company and client success, and personal growth. We offer competitive wages in salaried and hourly positions, educational opportunities, competitive employee benefit options, and 401K plan with company match.
Continental Tide is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify and U.S. citizenship is required for most positions. Continental Tide prohibits discrimination against any protected class from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs. Consistent with these obligations, Continental Tide also provides reasonable accommodations to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for sincerely held religious beliefs, observances, and practices.
Continental Tides Defense Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran”.
“This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.”

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