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Independent Contractor Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SGS

VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor agreement/sub-contractor agreement ... Monitoring welding parameters and inspecting materials and equipment. * Quality document reviews ...

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How much do independent contractor welding jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor welding in the United States is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 independent contractor welders?

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.

Can you make $100,000 as a welder?

Independent contractor welders can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries like construction, oil and gas, or manufacturing. Earnings depend on factors such as project scope, location, and the ability to secure consistent work, often requiring proficiency with various welding techniques and tools. High-paying opportunities are more common for those who build a strong reputation and have the flexibility to work overtime or on complex 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.

More about Independent Contractor Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Welding jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Welding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs? The most popular types of Welding jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Welding jobs are:
Independent Contractor Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Welding job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Welding Inspectors - Multiple Locations - Contract

Welding Inspectors - Multiple Locations - Contract

SGS

Richmond, VA • On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Contractor

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Description
We are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. Our 98,000 employees operate a network of 2,650 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
Job Description
SGS is currently looking for Welding Inspectors in multiple locations throughout the USA. Work will be assigned on a as needed basis and will be paid for the hours/days and other applicable cost items for the hours/days spent on the assigned work. The work duration could be a day or several days or several weeks.
The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor agreement/sub-contractor agreement (1099) with SGS North America Inc.
Scope of work:
The scope of work includes:
  • Ensuring that welds and welding processes comply with codes, standards, specifications, and project requirements by performing visual inspections and also to witness & verify non-destructive tests & their reports.
  • Monitoring welding parameters and inspecting materials and equipment.
  • Quality document reviews including WPS / PQR, assessment of quality, and issue reports or recommendations for corrective actions to ensure the safety and structural integrity of welded components.
  • Verify that welders are qualified, and that welding procedures and specifications (WPS) are followed correctly.
  • Ensure all welding activities adhere to relevant industry codes (like ASME, AWS, API) and contractual requirements.
  • Perform pre-weld, in-process, and post-weld inspections to identify defects and ensure quality.
  • Conduct visual inspections of welded joints, checking dimensions, penetration, and bead formation.
  • Witness non-destructive testing (NDT) and interpret / verify results.
  • Visual inspection on the quality of welding and mechanical projects.
  • Ensure that materials, equipment, and safety regulations are followed.
  • Prepare detailed reports documenting inspection results, including any issues found.

Qualifications
  • Must have at least one of the following: AWS / CWI / CSWIP/API
  • Minimum of five (5) years industrial welding-related inspection experience. Two (2) of these years should be in Quality Assurance / vendor surveillance / shop inspections inspector.
  • Minimum of 5 - 10 years of industry experience (mainly Oil and Gas)
  • Must be able to demonstrate knowledge of welding inspections. Welding inspections experience at manufacturer shops / facilities.
  • Welding inspection experience of Pipeline, Equipment i.e. Pressure vessels, Heat exchangers, Pumps, etc.. would be an asset.
    Work schedule is Monday to Friday - 8 to 10 hours/day
  • Hourly rate - $40 to $45/hr + $0.70/km
  • No set schedule, the inspector will be contacted as needed.
  • If the inspection site is beyond a round trip of 200 miles from the inspector place of residence, a per diem may be considered.
  • The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor agreement/sub-contractor agreement (1099) with SGS North America Inc.

Additional Information
SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts the company's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
If you are applying for a position within the United States and you have difficulty completing the on-line employment application because of a disability, please call 201-508-3149 for assistance and leave a message. You will receive a callback. Please note, this phone number is not for general employment information but is only for individuals who are experiencing difficulty applying for a position due to a disability.

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