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Independent Contractor Welding Jobs in Wisconsin

Veit

Welder/Fabricator

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

... for welding, repairing and light fabrication of specialty tools, structures, brackets and ... Veit is one of the country's leading specialty contractors, with nearly a century of experience and ...

Veitusa

Welder/Fabricator

New Berlin, WI

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

Completes welding and fabricating specific jobsite project needs. Repairs various equipment ... Works independently and with other mechanics to complete repairs on heavy equipment as needed.

Aerotek

Maintenance Technician

New Berlin, WI

Perform welding tasks to support repairs, upgrades, and improvements to machinery and facility ... contractors on repairs and facility projects. * Ability to work independently with minimal ...

Nord

Maintenance Technician

Waunakee, WI · On-site

Oversee outside contractors when needed for mechanical and electrical repairs and maintenance ... Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Obtain and maintain current certification ...

Janke General Contractors, Inc

Fabricator

Athens, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

Ability to work independently and manage time effectively. * Ability to pass Company Welder Qualification: FCAW & MIG Unlimited 3G & 4G at a Minimum. Benefits: * Competitive salary based on ...

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Independent Contractor Welding information

What is an independent contractor welder?

Independent contractor welders are skilled professionals who provide welding services on a contract or project basis rather than as employees of a single company. They typically work for multiple clients, managing their own schedules, tools, and business operations. These welders are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and compliance with safety regulations. This type of work offers flexibility and the potential for higher earnings but also requires strong business management skills.

How does an independent contractor welder typically manage project timelines and client expectations?

As an independent contractor welder, you are responsible for coordinating directly with clients to establish project timelines, deliverables, and expectations. This often involves assessing the project scope, creating detailed quotes, and setting realistic deadlines based on material availability and your current workload. Clear communication is key to building trust and ensuring client satisfaction, as is the ability to adapt quickly to changes or unexpected challenges on-site. Successful contractors also use project management tools or software to stay organized and keep clients informed throughout each stage of the job.

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

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Welder, you need strong welding techniques, blueprint reading skills, and relevant certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) qualifications. Experience with welding equipment, safety gear, and sometimes specialized tools like plasma cutters or MIG/TIG welders is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, time management, and the ability to communicate clearly with clients set top performers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure high-quality workmanship, safety compliance, and client satisfaction on diverse projects.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Welding vs Welder?

AspectIndependent Contractor WeldingWelder
CredentialsTypically requires welding certifications and licensesRequires welding certifications; employment may vary
Work EnvironmentOn a project basis, often on-site at various locationsFactory, construction sites, or workshops
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed, contracted directly to clients or companiesEmployed by companies or contractors

Independent Contractor Welders operate as self-employed professionals, taking on projects independently, while Welders are usually employed by companies. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work setup and employment status.

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 project basis or hourly, with higher earnings possible for specialized skills like pipe welding or certifications in advanced techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Welding jobs in Wisconsin?

For Independent Contractor Welding jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Welding jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Welding jobs in Wisconsin are:

Independent Contractor Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Welding job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

2nd Shift - Welding Operator Setup

FAIRBANKS MORSE DEFENSE

Beloit, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it's the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it's like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers
2nd Shift Welder Operator Setup - Fairbanks Morse Engine
Build Power That Supports Critical Missions
At Fairbanks Morse Engine, your work directly supports some of the most demanding and mission-critical operations in the world.
Based in Beloit, Wisconsin, Fairbanks Morse Engine (FME) manufactures, assembles, tests, and distributes heavy-duty, medium-speed reciprocating engines under the Fairbanks Morse® and ALCO® brand names. As a trusted supplier to the U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command, U.S. Coast Guard, and Canadian Coast Guard, FME delivers reliable marine power solutions that keep fleets operating worldwide.
FME is a division of Fairbanks Morse Defense, a portfolio company of Arcline Investment, and a recognized leader in marine propulsion and power systems.
If you take pride in craftsmanship, precision welding, and working on large-scale industrial equipment that makes a real impact, this is an opportunity to join a highly skilled manufacturing team where quality, safety, and expertise matter.
Position Summary
Primary Function
Perform assigned welding functions using a variety of welding procedures.
Shift Information
This position is assigned to 2nd shift after training is completed. Training will be conducted on 1st shift, followed by transition to 2nd shift assignment.
Security / Citizenship Requirement
Due to NOFORN policy, U.S. citizenship is required. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and cannot hold dual citizenship.
Tools & Equipment
  • Arc and gas welding and cutting equipment
  • Manual, semi-automatic welding systems
  • Welding stands, benches, positioning equipment, jigs, and fixtures
  • Measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, levels, protractors)
  • Standard hand tools (grinders, hammers, wire brushes, chisels)
  • Protective equipment, blueprints, WPS, engineering drawings, and process documentation

Materials
  • Ferrous and non-ferrous materials

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Receive job assignments, verbal instructions, sketches, blueprints, and welding procedures
  • Work to codes requiring third-party inspection verification
  • Perform setup operations on sub-assemblies and production parts
  • Perform welding on experimental jigs and fixtures
  • Plan, layout, and assemble work with or without fixtures
  • Weld in all positions as required
  • Cut, trim, grind, fit, tack weld, weld, solder, flame cut, and anneal components
  • Select filler metals and welding variables to control distortion and shrinkage
  • Read and interpret welding drawings and specifications
  • Determine weld size/type when not specified
  • Complete setup and welding operations as assigned
  • Operate magnaflux equipment and identify defects for Quality Control review
  • Maintain tolerances up to 1/64"
  • Support changeovers or modifications on semi-automatic welding systems

Qualifications, Skills & Educational Requirements
  • Proven welding experience or technical welding knowledge
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings
  • Understanding of quality control principles
  • Strong hand-eye coordination and physical capability for manufacturing work
  • High school diploma required; technical training preferred
  • Ability to work in a team-based manufacturing environment
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong attention to detail and confidentiality
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Customer-service mindset in a manufacturing/support environment
  • Forklift and Large Overhead crane experience preferred

Why Join Fairbanks Morse Engine?
  • Work on mission-critical products supporting U.S. and allied defense operations
  • Join a respected manufacturer with a long-standing industry reputation
  • Hands-on work with advanced welding equipment and complex assemblies
  • Collaborative, skilled manufacturing environment focused on quality and safety
  • Stable organization with continued investment in U.S. manufacturing excellence

Equal Opportunity Employer
Fairbanks Morse is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, national origin, marital status, citizenship status (unless required by applicable law or government contract), disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected status.
Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

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