Welder

Welder

Chicago, United States

Company
Sims Metal
Location
Chicago, IL
Job Type
Full-time
Posted
17 days ago
Via
via Indeed

Job Description
Founded in Australia in 1917, Sims Limited (Sims) is a global leader in metal recycling and circular solutions for technology. We play a critical role in advancing circularity and decarbonisation by supplying recycled materials and re-purposed products that help preserve our planet.

At Sims, we believe in developing our people. With a strong promote-from-within philosophy and a range of programmes that support continuous learning, we offer opportunities for meaningful, long-term careers. Employing more than 4,100 people worldwide, we operate over 155 facilities across 13 countries. As an ASX-listed company, Sims provides the stability, transparency, and professional growth opportunities of a publicly traded organisation, all driven by our purpose: to create a world without waste.

Job Summary

The Welder is responsible for performing welding, cutting, fabrication, and repair work on equipment, containers, and structural components used in daily recycling yard and/or trucking operations. This role supports safe, efficient processing of scrap metals by maintaining yard and/or trucking equipment and fabricating custom solutions as needed.

Key Responsibilities
• Perform MIG, TIG, and/or Stick welding on ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Repair and fabricate scrap containers, hoppers, bins, conveyors, and structural components
• Cut metal using torches, plasma cutters, and saws
• Inspect equipment and materials to identify needed repairs or modifications
• Read and interpret basic blueprints, sketches, and work orders
• Maintain welding equipment, tools, and work area in safe operating condition
• Follow all yard safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and PPE requirements
• Work closely with equipment operators, mechanics, and yard personnel
• Assist with general maintenance tasks as needed in an industrial yard environment

Qualifications
• High school diploma or GED preferred
• 2+ years of welding experience in an industrial, construction, or recycling environment preferred
• Proficiency in at least one welding process (MIG, TIG, Stick)
• Completion of a vocational, technical, or trade school welding program preferred
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience will be considered
• Experience working with heavy steel, plate, and structural metals
• Ability to safely operate cutting and welding equipment
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs regularly
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work in various positions for extended periods
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Tolerance for noise, dust, and industrial yard conditions

A career with Sims provides you with the opportunity to work with an organization whose goal is to be the world’s safest and most responsible recycling company. Our people achieve this by creating a zero-harm workplace, being exemplary members of the communities in which we operate, and being responsible stewards of the environment. We also offer competitive pay and a range of attractive benefits.

At sims together we are a diverse group of employees who are supported by our equal opportunity policy. To achieve our purpose to create a world without waste to preserve our planet, we are guided by our Principles of Purpose: Be Safe + Well, Band Together, Be Accountable + Transparent, Consistently Innovate, Inspire with Purpose, Celebrate + Have Fun.

Pay: $24.58 per hour

Benefits:
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person
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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs in United States

Q What is the median annual salary for welders in the United States in 2026?
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in the United States is $52,060 as of May 2023 projections adjusted for 2026 with 3.25% annual growth. Entry-level welders (10th percentile) earn $38,390 annually, while experienced ones (90th percentile) earn $68,210. Most salaries range from $40,000 to $65,000 depending on location and specialization.
Q What are the federal minimum wage and overtime rules for welder jobs in 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division, the federal minimum wage remains $7.25 per hour in 2026, though many states like California mandate $16.50 per hour. Welders working over 40 hours per week receive overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular rate. Employers must track hours accurately for non-exempt welders.
Q What work visa is required for foreign nationals to work as welders in the US in 2026?
As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, foreign welders typically require an H-2B temporary non-agricultural work visa, with a statutory cap of 66,000 visas per fiscal year supplemented by 64,000 additional for 2026. Employers must obtain labor certification from DOL proving no U.S. workers available. Processing time is 3-6 months with fees starting at $460.
Q What education and experience are needed for entry-level welder jobs in 2026?
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, welders need a high school diploma or GED, plus completion of a 6-18 month postsecondary vocational program or 1-2 year apprenticeship. No prior experience required for entry-level, but 1,000-2,000 hours of training preferred. Certifications from programs registered with DOL are standard.
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