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Independent Contractor Rig Welder Jobs in Montana

Knife River Corporation

Welder/Fabricator

Missoula, MT · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we ... This position will require you to able to work both independently and as a team player. Note:

City of Billings

$35.12 - $47.04/hr

The Safety Officer exercises considerable independent judgment in planning, implementing, and ... The position routinely interacts with employees at every organizational level, contractors ...

Knife River Corporation

EQUIPMENT OILER

Missoula, MT · On-site

We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we ... Safely operate equipment, standard and specialty tools, welders, hoists and other lifting devices ...

Nomad GCS

Mechanical Engineer III

Columbia Falls, MT · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

Expertise in raw material selection, manufacturing processes (welding, machining, & sheet metal ... Independently design mechanical subsystems and assemblies for assigned projects. * Experience ...

Knife River Corporation

Heavy Duty Mechanic (s)

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we ... Safely operate equipment, from standard to specialty tools, torches, welders, hoists, forklifts ...

Knife River Corporation

Heavy Duty Mechanic (s)

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$27.75 - $36.75/hr

We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we ... Safely operate equipment, from standard to specialty tools, torches, welders, hoists, forklifts ...

All JobsIndependent Contractor Rig Welder JobsIndependent Contractor Rig Welder Jobs in Montana

Independent Contractor Rig Welder information

See Montana salary details

$4

$42

$76

How much do independent contractor rig welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor rig welder in Montana is $42.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.97 and $44.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor rig welder?

An Independent Contractor Rig Welder is a skilled professional who operates their own welding rig and provides welding services on a contract basis. They typically work in industries such as oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing, handling tasks like pipeline welding, structural welding, and equipment repairs. As independent contractors, they are responsible for sourcing their own jobs, maintaining their equipment, and handling business expenses. This role requires extensive welding expertise, certifications, and often the ability to work in remote or hazardous environments. Successful rig welders must also have strong business skills to manage contracts and finances effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor rig welder?

An Independent Contractor Rig Welder needs advanced welding skills, a solid knowledge of metallurgy, and familiarity with industry safety standards, usually backed by several years of experience and relevant trade certifications. Proficiency with welding equipment such as stick, MIG, and TIG welders, as well as certifications like AWS or API, is typically expected. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and reliability help welders efficiently coordinate with crews and adapt to changing site conditions. These competencies are crucial for ensuring high-quality welds, minimizing hazards, and maintaining productivity in demanding and remote rig environments.

What are the typical working conditions and schedules for independent contractor rig welders?

Independent Contractor Rig Welders often work in rugged outdoor environments, such as oil fields or construction sites, where weather conditions and physical demands can vary significantly. Schedules may involve long hours, shift work, or extended rotations (for example, multiple weeks on-site followed by time off), depending on the project's requirements. Welders are expected to work both independently and as part of a team to meet tight deadlines and strict safety standards. Flexibility, a willingness to travel, and the ability to adapt to changing work conditions are essential for success in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rig Welder jobs in Montana?

The most popular types of Rig Welder jobs in Montana are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Montana?

For Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Montana look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Montana are:

What cities in Montana are hiring for Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs?

Cities in Montana with the most Independent Contractor Rig Welder job openings:

Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Rig Welder job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,925 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Welder/Fabricator

Knife River Corporation

Missoula, MT • On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Knife River rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.
We are looking for a motivated Welder/Fabricator to join our team! This position will require you to able to work both independently and as a team player. Note: Travel may be required and working in extreme weather conditions should be expected.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Be able to read, interpret and follow basic blueprints, diagrams, drawings specifications, and other written instructions or procedures to safely and accurately complete equipment repairs and/or fabricate complete components.
  • Basic hand tools required.
  • Valid CDL - (Class A preferred)
  • Qualifying driving record under company policy.
  • Fabricator skills a plus

Duties and/or Responsibilities:
  • Perform all work in accordance with quality standards and established safety procedures.
  • Rework and/or repair welded parts, equipment and components.
  • Communicate effectively (verbal, written, listening). Frequent contact and communication with others within and outside the company. Self-motivated team player with excellent interpersonal skills; ability to maintain positive customer relations and act courteous/respectful of other.
  • Maintain clean and safe work area.
  • Operate and maintain welders, cutting torch, plasma cutter, chop saws and other welding/fabricating equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

How To Apply:
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
Knife River Montana offers a 401(K) as well as Company paid Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Short-Term Disability Benefits for employees and their dependents. Paid Time Off offered after 90 days of successful employment.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.
You may apply online at https/jobs.kniferiver.net
If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to:
Knife River Mountain Region
4800 Wilkie Street
Missoula, Mt 59808
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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