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 projected median annual wage for welders in the United States in 2026?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in the United States is $52,500, or $25.24 per hour, as of 2026. Entry-level welders start at approximately $38,000 annually, while experienced ones earn up to $68,000. Wages are highest in manufacturing states like Louisiana at $28.50 per hour.
Q What visa do foreign welders need to work legally in the US in 2026?
As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, foreign welders typically require an H-2B visa for temporary non-agricultural work, with a fiscal year 2026 cap of 66,000 visas plus up to 64,716 supplemental. Employers must obtain a temporary labor certification from DOL proving no US workers available, valid for up to 12 months. Processing fee is $460 per petition as of 2026.
Q What are the minimum education and experience requirements for welder jobs in the US?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, welders need a high school diploma or GED and completion of a 6,000-hour apprenticeship program averaging 2 years. No prior experience is required for entry-level apprenticeships starting at age 18. Vocational training from DOL-registered programs provides the necessary skills in MIG, TIG, and stick welding.
Q What documents are required to apply for welder apprenticeship programs in the US?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants need a high school diploma or GED, proof of age 18+, driver's license, Social Security number, and resume listing any metalworking experience. Submit online via Apprenticeship.gov portal with sponsor-specific forms. Background check and drug test are standard, processed within 30 days.
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