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Independent Contractor Rig Welder Jobs in Kalispell, MT

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 ...

All JobsIndependent Contractor Rig Welder JobsIndependent Contractor Rig Welder Jobs in Kalispell, MT

Independent Contractor Rig Welder information

See Kalispell, MT salary details

$5

$46

$82

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 Kalispell, MT is $46.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.42 and $47.50 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 Kalispell, MT?

The most popular types of Rig Welder jobs in Kalispell, MT are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Kalispell, MT?

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

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Kalispell, MT look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs in Kalispell, MT are:

What cities near Kalispell, MT are hiring for Independent Contractor Rig Welder jobs?

Cities near Kalispell, MT 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 Kalispell, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,705 per year, or $46 per hour.

Heavy Duty Mechanic (Kalispell)

Knife River Corporation

Kalispell, MT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 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.
Knife River is looking for an experienced Heavy Diesel Mechanic to work for our Kalispell division.
This position will require you to be able to work both independently and as a team player. Working in extreme weather conditions should be expected.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Valid CDL - Class A preferred)
  • Qualified driving record
  • Experience with heavy truck and equipment repair- (preferred)
  • Have your own tools

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • perform significant maintenance and repairs on trucks and all types of equipment, and/or assist with repairs, improvements, maintenance of trucks and equipment to assure they are in safe and suitable working condition.
  • Safely operate equipment, from standard to specialty tools, torches, welders, hoists, forklifts, and other heavy equipment on a daily basis.
  • Troubleshooting truck and equipment maintenance problems, diagnosing parts and components to determine method and extent of repair necessary.
  • Read, interpret, analyze and apply information from technical manuals and schematics.
  • Anticipate necessary parts and supplies for order, ability to fabricate parts when needed.
  • Safety minded, accurately complete shop forms, keep tidy work areas, maintain regulatory compliance.
  • Communicate effectively. There will be frequent contact, communication, and courtesy with others within and outside the company. You need to be self-motivated and have the ability to work independently or in a team setting.
  • Willingness to handle multiple projects while maintaining deadlines and attention to detail.
  • Operate company vehicle to perform field service repairs.
  • Responsible for providing your own basic hand tools, pneumatics, and some specialty tools.
  • Shifts may include working nights, evening and weekends.
  • Flexible with performing other duties assigned by the shop manager.

Benefits:
  • Company paid medical, dental and vision
  • 401K
  • Paid Time Off after 90 days
  • Holiday pay after 30 days
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability

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.
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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