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Independent Contractor Welder Jobs in Rochester, NY

Maintenance Mechanic

Batavia, NY · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... boilers, welding and cutting, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical, and other systems * Assists ... Monitor boilers and associated equipment for proper operation * Assist outside contractors with ...

Industrial Maintenance Technician

Avon, NY · On-site

$33.26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Complete repairs involving welding, machining, fabrication, and electrical work. * Respond quickly ... Coordinate maintenance activities with outside contractors and vendors when needed. * Prioritize ...

Independent Contractor Welder information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do independent contractor welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor welder in Rochester, NY is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and safety standards, often backed by a welding certification or apprenticeship. Familiarity with welding equipment, power tools, and industry-standard safety systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, self-motivation, and effective client communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure high-quality workmanship, project safety, and client satisfaction in a competitive, project-driven environment.

How much do independent contractor welders make?

Independent contractor welders typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, specialization, location, and project complexity. They often set their own rates and may work on a contract basis for various industries such as construction, manufacturing, or repair services.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Welder vs Certified Welder?

AspectIndependent Contractor WelderCertified Welder
CredentialsNo mandatory certifications; often self-certifiedRequires specific certifications (e.g., AWS, CWB)
Work EnvironmentOn various job sites, flexible projectsEmployers' facilities, shops, or construction sites
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed, contracts with multiple clientsEmployed or contracted with companies, industry standards
Search/Comparison IntentLooking for flexible, freelance welding workSeeking certified, recognized welding professionals

In summary, Independent Contractor Welders operate independently without mandatory certifications, offering flexibility across various projects. Certified Welders hold recognized credentials, ensuring compliance with industry standards and often working within established companies or shops. The choice depends on your certification status and preferred work environment.

What is an independent contractor welder?

Independent Contractor Welders are skilled professionals who perform welding work on a contract or freelance basis rather than as employees of a single company. They are responsible for their own business operations, including finding clients, negotiating rates, and managing taxes and insurance. These welders often work on a variety of projects, such as construction, repairs, or fabrication, and may travel to different job sites. Being independent allows them flexibility in their schedule and the types of work they accept, but it also requires strong business and technical skills.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor welders, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor welders often encounter challenges such as fluctuating workloads, sourcing their own projects, and managing business operations like invoicing and taxes. To successfully navigate these obstacles, it’s important to build a strong client network, maintain flexibility in scheduling, and stay up-to-date with industry certifications. Many welders also invest in quality tools and safety equipment, and keep detailed records to streamline administrative tasks and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

How to find freelance work as an independent contractor welder?

Independent contractor welders can find freelance work by creating profiles on online job platforms, networking with local construction and manufacturing companies, and showcasing their skills through a portfolio or certifications. Building a reputation through quality work and obtaining relevant licenses can also help attract clients. Consistent outreach and maintaining a strong professional presence are key to securing freelance opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Welder jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Welder jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Independent Contractor Welder jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Welder jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Welder jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Independent Contractor Welder jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Independent Contractor Welder job openings:

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Welder job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,696 per year, or $22 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Technician

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Henrietta, NY • On-site

$30 - $37/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

We're looking for 2 skilled Heavy Construction Equipment Technician to join our team. This role involves diagnosing, repairing, and overhauling a wide range of construction and heavy equipment across manufacturers, in the shop. The other position is a Field Technician on-site.
Key Responsibilities:
- Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues
- Test equipment after repair or assembly to ensure proper performance and compliance with
- Perform preventative maintenance and inspections
- Complete pre-delivery inspections (PDI) on new equipment
- Document service work and maintain accurate records
- Weld or solder broken parts and structural members, using electric or gas welders and soldering tools.
- Adjust, maintain, and repair or replace sub-assemblies such as transmission and crawler heads using hand tools, jacks, and cranes.
Field Technician Responsibilities (Senior-Level):
- Travel to job sites to perform on-site diagnostics and repairs
- Operate a fully equipped service truck (Freightliner M2 with crane and tools)
-Must have 3+ years of heavy equipment repair experience (5-10+ preferred for field role)
- Must have Experience working on construction equipment (excavators, dozers, loaders, etc.)
- Must have Strong knowledge of hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems
- Must have Ability to read schematics and troubleshoot independently
- Must have Valid driver"s license (required for field role)
By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, Al-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Synerfac Technical Staffing and our contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undeliverable messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at www.synerfac.com/privacy/

Synerfac Technical Staffing logo

About Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

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