OT: General technical contracting

[Buck Buchanan]

Hi everybody,

Sorry for the off topic but I feel more comfortable with feedback from
this group than say sci.electronics.design (which seems to have turned
into a stupid joke list/flame war anyway). 

An engineer I used to work for as a technician has referred me to a
local start up that is developing some kind noise control in headphone
systems.  This is to be Engineering Technician type work; prototyping,
testing, etc. - not actual contract engineering.  I have all the basic
facilities and skills for most of this stuff which is why I was
recommended to them.  All work would be performed with my equipment in
my facility (garage). 

The thing is, I've never done contracting before and need to give myself
some kind of crash course before I talk to these people.  I don't intend
to try and be something I'm not, but having half a clue to the
business/contract side of things would help.  

I would really appreciate reading suggestions, web site links, or any
general off-the-cuff advice you want to give.  In addition, I'm
particularly interested to know what "average" (if there is such a
thing) prices similar contractors charge.  I certainly don't intend to
ask for top dollar but would like to have a reference point to start
from.  I do realize you can't give advice specific to me since you don't
know what my skills and facilities are.  So I'm just looking for general
stuff.

Any information at all is greatly appreciated.  This is probably a good
thing to do off list but that's up to you.

Thanks much,

Buck