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Independent Welding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sears Seating

Weld Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82K - $123K/yr

Experience with welding inspection and quality control * Excellent problem-solving and communication skills * Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Sears Seating

Weld Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82K - $123K/yr

Experience with welding inspection and quality control * Excellent problem-solving and communication skills * Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Sears Seating

Weld Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$34 - $46.75/hr

Experience with welding inspection and quality control * Excellent problem-solving and communication skills * Ability to work independently and as part of a team #J-18808-Ljbffr

Aerotek

Welder

Humboldt, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

The position requires strong welding skills, a commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Responsibilities * Weld aluminum ...

New

Mobile Track Solutions LLC

Welder

Elkader, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Perform MIG welding on heavy equipment components and assemblies. * Read and interpret blueprints ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Commitment to workplace safety.

Mobile Track Solutions

Welder

Elkader, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Perform MIG welding on heavy equipment components and assemblies. * Read and interpret blueprints ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Commitment to workplace safety.

Franzenburg LLC

Be Seen First

Machinist (Manual Lathe, Mill & Spray Welding)

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently or in a team * High school diploma or equivalent ... welding processes

Aerotek

Welder

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$21.26 - $26.99/hr

Can read blueprints and work independently without constant direction * Takes pride in producing clean, high-quality welds * Enjoys fabrication work, not just welding the same parts all day

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All JobsIndependent Welding JobsIndependent Welding Jobs in Iowa

Independent Welding information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do independent welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent welding in Iowa is $27.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $32.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is independent welding?

Independent welding refers to welding work performed by a self-employed individual or contractor, rather than someone employed by a company. Independent welders often work on a variety of projects, such as construction, repairs, or manufacturing, and they may serve multiple clients. They are responsible for their own equipment, scheduling, and business operations, giving them more flexibility and control over their work. This career path can offer higher earning potential and more diverse job opportunities, but it also involves more responsibility for acquiring clients and managing a business.

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

To thrive as an Independent Welder, you need proficiency in various welding techniques, strong blueprint reading skills, and typically a high school diploma or welding certification. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety systems, and industry standards such as AWS certification is highly valuable. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with clients make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure high-quality, safe welds and build a strong reputation, which is crucial for success as an independent professional.

What are some common challenges faced by independent welders and how can they be addressed?

Independent welders often encounter challenges such as fluctuating workloads, sourcing clients, and managing their own equipment and safety standards. Building a consistent client base requires strong networking and marketing skills, while maintaining and transporting welding equipment adds logistical complexity. Staying updated on safety regulations and certifications is essential, as is being adaptable to different job sites and work environments. Joining professional associations and leveraging online platforms can help address these challenges by expanding your network and keeping your skills current.

What is the difference between Independent Welding vs Pipe Welder?

AspectIndependent WeldingPipe Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME), often specialized in pipe welding
Work EnvironmentVarious settings including construction sites, fabrication shops, maintenancePrimarily on pipelines, refineries, and industrial plants
Industry UsageUsed across multiple industries including construction, manufacturing, maintenanceFocused on pipeline construction, oil & gas, and industrial piping

Independent Welders perform general welding tasks across diverse environments, while Pipe Welders specialize in welding pipes in industrial settings. Both roles require similar certifications, but Pipe Welders often need additional skills specific to pipe welding. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Can you be an independent welder?

Yes, an independent welder works as a self-employed contractor, often handling their own projects, scheduling, and client relationships. They typically need welding skills, certifications, and their own tools, and may work in various environments such as construction sites or fabrication shops.

How much do independent welders make?

Independent welders typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, with annual incomes ranging from approximately $40,000 to $100,000 depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled welders with certifications and specialized tools can command higher rates, especially for custom or industrial work.
Independent Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Welding job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,198 per year, or $28 per hour.

Welding Inspectors - Multiple Locations - Contract

Des Moines, IA • On-site

SGS
See more jobs at SGSexternal

$40 - $45/hr

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

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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