Welder

Welder


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

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

Physical Requirements
β€’ Ability to lift up to 40 lbs regularly
β€’ Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work in various positions for extended periods
β€’ Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
β€’ 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:
β€’ 401(k) matching
β€’ Dental insurance
β€’ Health insurance
β€’ Life insurance
β€’ Paid time off
β€’ Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs

Q What is the median hourly wage for welders in the United States as of January 2026 including overtime rates?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median hourly wage for welders at $28.45 as of January 2026 with time-and-a-half overtime required after 40 hours under FLSA rules. Welders in manufacturing earn an additional $4.20 per hour on average for night shifts. Annual median earnings reach $59,176 for full-time roles.
Q How many hours per week can welders legally work in the United States without overtime pay in 2026?
The U.S. Department of Labor sets the standard workweek at 40 hours with overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate required after that threshold in 2026. Welders on federal contracts receive double time for hours over 48 in a workweek. Paid sick leave of up to 56 hours annually applies under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions.
Q What education and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states a high school diploma plus 6-12 months of postsecondary welding training or apprenticeship is required for 2026 entry-level positions. Three years of documented experience is mandatory for structural welding roles under AWS D1.1 standards referenced by DOL. Certification in SMAW or GMAW processes must be completed before hire.
Q What documents are required to apply for welder positions through U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeships in 2026?
Applicants must submit Form ETA-671, high school transcripts, and proof of U.S. work authorization to DOL-registered programs by March 2026 deadlines. A valid driver's license and negative drug test results from a SAMHSA-certified lab are mandatory. Background checks via FBI fingerprinting are required for nuclear or pipeline welding tracks.
View all 7 FAQs