What does an independent contractor do?
Independent contractors perform a wide range of important jobs, from delivering food to installing wood flooring. The exact day-to-day work of an independent contractor depends on their specialty and the contract they agreed to. In most cases, independent contractors are brought in to fulfill a need or provide a service not currently available in-house.
Whether providing temporary support or long-term labor, independent contractors supply the talent and information essential to client success.
Independent contractor skills and qualifications
The skills and qualifications you check for in an independent contractor may shift based on the type of contractor you’re seeking. A cargo van driver might need a clean driving record, a commercial driver’s license and comprehensive knowledge of local roadways. A graphic designer may be expected to understand various editing programs and know the basics of digital marketing.
Your independent contractor job description might include these skills and qualifications:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to be a self-starter and work independently
- Excellent time-management skills and adherence to deadlines
- Familiarity with relevant software and programming, such as inventory management software and project management apps
- Knowledge of industry-specific regulations and practices (e.g., HIPAA compliance for healthcare or OSHA regulations for trade positions)
- Basic understanding of financial management and general business practices, such as contract negotiations and invoicing
Independent contractor experience requirements
Many independent contractors are expected to have at least a year or two of experience in their chosen discipline. Generally speaking, the amount of experience preferred increases as the project or specialty becomes more specialized or complex. A construction worker may only need a year or two of experience, while a construction foreman might need five or more years of practical leadership.
Independent contractor education and training requirements
Because independent contractors aren’t always required to have a formal degree, you can prioritize skills-first hiring and focus on relevant experience or transferable skills instead. For example, a tutor may demonstrate subject matter expertise without a teaching degree, or a social media manager may have strong editing skills gained through freelance or personal projects.
In fields where certification is more common, such as health coaching or real estate, credentials can signal that a candidate has verified skills, industry knowledge and a commitment to professional standards.
Independent contractor salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an independent contractor is $63,984 per year. Salaries can vary depending on the type of contractor, project scope, contractor experience, client budget and location.
Independent contractor salary expectations
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Common salary:
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Typical salaries range from
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Job description samples for similar positions
If this independent contractor job description template doesn’t quite align with your needs, you may find more relevant information via these related listings:
*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.
