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Independent Contractor Rig Welder Jobs in Austin, TX

Welder Helper

Austin, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Overview Herzog Contracting, Corp. is currently seeking a Welder Helper in Austin, TX to join our ... May work as a member of a crew or independently. * May work under the direction of a Railroad Track ...

Welder Helper

Austin, TX

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Overview Herzog Contracting, Corp. is currently seeking a Welder Helper in Austin, TX to join our ... May work as a member of a crew or independently. * May work under the direction of a Railroad Track ...

You will work closely with Manufacturing Supervisors, operators, contractors, and maintenance ... Production equipment including CNC machines, saws, welding equipment, and product testing apparatus ...

You will work closely with Manufacturing Supervisors, operators, contractors, and maintenance ... Production equipment including CNC machines, saws, welding equipment, and product testing apparatus ...

Electrical, Plumbing, and Welding experience is helpful. * General Contractor's License is ... Able to work independently in a fast-paced environment is a must. * Some knowledge of computers is ...

Electrical, Plumbing, and Welding experience is helpful. * General Contractor's License is ... Able to work independently in a fast-paced environment is a must. * Some knowledge of computers is ...

Electrical, Plumbing, and Welding experience is helpful. * General Contractor's License is ... Able to work independently in a fast-paced environment is a must. * Some knowledge of computers is ...

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Independent Contractor Rig Welder information

See Austin, TX salary details

$5

$46

$82

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor rig welder in Austin, TX is $46.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.57 and $47.64 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 Austin, TX? The most popular types of Rig Welder jobs in Austin, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Austin, TX? For Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Independent Contractor Rig Welder job openings:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Rig Welder job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,032 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Welder Helper

Herzog

Austin, TX • On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 11 days ago


Herzog rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview
Herzog Contracting, Corp. is currently seeking a Welder Helper in Austin, TX to join our team.
Duties and Responsibilities:
*This is a non-exhaustive overview of the job duties for this position.
  • Assist with the overall installation and repairs of railroad track and embankments including special track work, road crossings, signage, and rail lubricators.
  • Assist with all track welding procedures.
  • Use a wide variety of hand tools.
  • May work as a member of a crew or independently.
  • May work under the direction of a Railroad Track Repair Lead or Railroad Track Welder and others as designated.
  • Must be able to be flexible with night and day work.
  • Regular and consistent engagement, participation and promotion of Herzog's Culture and its essential behaviors are a requirement for this position.
  • Regular and predictable attendance and punctuality are a requirement for this position.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience with hydraulics, heavy equipment repair, and pneumatics preferred but not required.
  • Knowledge of safe work practices and prior experience thermit welding is a plus.

Pre-Employment Requirements:
  • Subject to pre-employment background check and motor vehicle report review.
  • Maintain a valid driver's license and endorsements as required per position.
  • Pass pre-employment DOT physical, medical evaluation, and drug screen due to the safety sensitive nature of this position.
    • This position requires you to pass and maintain a DOT medical evaluation to drive a Herzog commercial vehicle.
  • Successfully complete and maintain any required safety certification and testing on an annual basis.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described below must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential job functions of this role. This position will be physically demanding at times. This is a non-exhaustive overview of the physical requirements of this job.
  • Regularly lift up to 75 pounds of weight, up to an end height of 36 inches for a distance of up to 10 feet.
  • Regularly lift up to 50 pounds of weight, up to an end height of 48 inches for a distance of up to 10 feet.
  • Regularly carry weight up to 16 pounds for a distance of up to 100 feet.
  • Regularly push/pull a force up to 25 pounds for up to eight minutes continuously.
  • Regularly grasp/squeeze equipment or tools with a force up to 40 pounds.
  • Regularly ascend and descend a 10 step ladder with up to 25 pounds. Frequently climb on/off equipment.
  • Regularly ascend/descend a step with a height of 28 inches from the floor.
  • Regularly kneel, bend, squat for extended periods of time.
  • Regularly sit and stand for an extended period of time.
  • Able to walk on uneven surfaces up to 1 mile.
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet).
  • Available to work a 40 hour work week subject to overtime, on call and alternate shifts that may include weeknights, weekends and holidays.
  • Must successfully pass color/vision examinations as required by the position.
  • Must be able to hear and distinguish auditory signals as required by the position.

Safety:
  • Herzog is nationally recognized for its excellent corporate safety record which results from all employees at all levels, in all positions adhering to established policies and procedures. Reporting any and all safety violations to your immediate supervisor is a prerequisite for continued employment. Safety diligence by all results in a safe work environment for all.

Benefits:
  • Herzog offers a robust benefits package including medical and dental coverage. The plans are specific to projects and locations.

Why Herzog:
Founded in 1969, Herzog is headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri, with a satellite office in Fort Worth, Texas.
Over the course of our 50+ year history, Herzog has become a national leader in the construction, operations and maintenance of commuter rail, light rail, streetcar, and freight rail projects.
We believe our culture is at the heart of our existence. It is that belief which empowers every member of our professional family to act with purpose and passion as they advance their career throughout their personal pursuit of excellence.
Backed by over five decades of experience, Herzog delivers exceptional customer service and elite results.
Our success is the outcome of our relentless pursuit of excellence, our passion for our customers, safety without compromise, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of team.
We invite you to join us on our journey to excellence as we work to be better today than yesterday and better tomorrow than today.
It is the policy of Herzog Contracting Corp. to provide equal opportunity in employment for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, age, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, military status, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.

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