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Contractor Welder Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

efcoforms

Manufacturing - Welder II

Des Moines, IA

$18 - $22.25/hr

At EFCO, the health and safety of our team members, visitors, and contractors is an overriding ... Operate Weld Fixtures and Tools (15%) Work with weld fixtures and handling equipment, including ...

Union Pacific

Welder Helper - Mason City, IA

Mason City, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Welder Helper, you will actively contribute to the repair, tempering, and cutting of rails ... Foster positive relationships with colleagues, supervisors, contractors, and customers, and ...

EN Engineering LLC

Welding Inspector

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

You will review and interpret welding procedures, codes, and standards, identify and address welding defects, and maintain professional relationships with clients and contractors while delivering ...

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Contractor Welder information

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How much do contractor welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contractor welder in Iowa is $20.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contractor welder?

Contractor welders are skilled tradespeople who are hired on a contract basis to perform welding tasks for various projects, such as construction, manufacturing, or repairs. Unlike full-time employees, they typically work for a specific period or on a particular project before moving on to another job. Their responsibilities include joining metal parts, repairing structures, and ensuring that all welds meet safety and quality standards. Contractor welders often need to bring their own tools and may work in different environments, from construction sites to industrial facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractor welder?

To thrive as a Contractor Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and fabrication, typically supported by a welding certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as safety systems like PPE and OSHA standards, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and reliability are crucial soft skills for delivering precise and safe work on tight schedules. These skills ensure high-quality welds, job site safety, and successful project completion in various construction and industrial environments.

What are some common challenges contractor welders face when working on multiple job sites?

Contractor welders often work on a variety of job sites, each with its own unique safety protocols, equipment, and project requirements. Adapting quickly to different work environments and collaborating with new teams can be challenging, especially when managing differing expectations or unfamiliar tools. Strong communication skills and flexibility are essential to ensure quality work while meeting deadlines. Additionally, contractor welders must stay up-to-date with industry certifications and safety standards to remain competitive and compliant on each project.

What is the difference between Contractor Welder vs Pipe Welder?

AspectContractor WelderPipe Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial facilities, project-basedRefineries, pipelines, industrial plants
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, maintenanceOil & gas, water pipelines, petrochemical

Contractor Welders and Pipe Welders both require similar welding certifications and often work in industrial or construction environments. However, Contractor Welders typically handle a variety of projects across different sites, while Pipe Welders specialize in welding pipes for pipelines and refineries. Both roles are essential in their industries and often overlap in skills, but their primary focus and work settings differ.

How much do contractor welders get paid?

Contractor welders typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and project complexity. They often work on a freelance basis or through staffing agencies, with pay rates varying by region and industry demand.

What are popular job titles related to Contractor Welder jobs in Iowa?

For Contractor Welder jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contractor Welder jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Contractor Welder jobs in Iowa are:

Contractor Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractor Welder job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,489 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Traveling Structural Welder

Robinson Construction

Fort Dodge, IA

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

 Traveling Structural Welder

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Reads and interprets project plans, blueprints and other written instructions and diagrams to perform task at hand.
  • Performs Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) based on project needs.
  • Field install welds, including duct work, light fixtures, vents, fans, metal sheeting and other parts.
  • Selects proper fillers for jobs based on previous experience or project instructions.
  • Coordinates with field labor crew for efficient installations.
  • Conserves resources whenever possible to ensure budgetary integrity and client satisfaction.
  • De-burs and grinds metal as necessary to achieve proper surface texture.
  • Takes personal responsibility for fostering a safe workplace by following safety policies and procedures.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • May train or supervise others in job duties.
  • May perform a variety of duties including those of other positions.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:                                                                                       

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Three or more years of Journeyman Welding experience required; ability to Shielded Metal Arc Weld (STICK/ARC) and/or Flux Cored Arc Welding (FLUX) preferred.
  • Industrial machine licenses (such as a forklift license) preferred.
  • Current OSHA 10 or MSHA Certification preferred.
  • TWIC card preferred.

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
  • Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of buildings, or other industrial structures.
  • Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and construction industrial equipment.
  • Skill in the standard use of tools and equipment of the profession.
  • Ability to work successfully as a team and independently with moderate supervision.
  • Ability to understand and follow directions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
  • Ability to visualize a layout by looking at plans and prints.
  • Ability to comprehend and trouble-shoot mechanical systems.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Coordinate eye-hand movements with control and precision.
  • Use hands and fingers fully; reach for, manipulate and feel objects; stoop, kneel, crouch, and/or crawl.
  • See and hear well (either naturally or with correction).
  • Lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Stoop, lay, bend or squat for long periods of time.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • May be exposed to fumes, dust or other airborne particles.
  • May be exposed to loud noises.
  • Position regularly works near moving mechanical parts and vibrating machinery.
  • May be exposed to extreme outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat and humidity or cold and wet conditions.
  • May be exposed to hazardous chemicals or waste.

OTHER:

  • Travel may be required. 
  • Overtime will be required.
  • Shiftwork may be required.
  • Holiday and weekend work may be required.

REQUIRED TOOLS:

Must possess and bring hand tools to each job site such as:

Hammers, Chipping Tools, Grinders, Welding Hood, Welding Gloves, Stingers, Clamps, Pliers and Brushes.

Robinson Construction is a Design-Build General Contractor specializing in the completion of process-intense manufacturing facilities throughout the United States. Our clients include heavy industrial, manufacturing; food grade processing plants, chemical and processing; power and renewable energy; healthcare facilities, and mining industries, as well as federal, state, and municipal agencies.

Robinson Construction is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  We will provide equal opportunity to all applicants and prohibit any discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability or veteran status. Applicants are treated on the basis of their job-related qualifications, ability and performance.

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