Maintenance Mechanic / Welder
Company
Imperial Recycling
Location
Chicago, IL
Job Type
Full-time
Salary
70K–75K a year
Posted
4 days ago
Via
Glassdoor
Apply On
Job Description
About Us
Imperial Recycling
Located in Chicago, IL, our facility excels in processing a wide range of materials, including aluminum, copper, brass, steel, zinc, plastic, paper, and more. With expertise in operating chopping lines for insulated wire processing, we serve diverse industries such as manufacturing, electrical utilities, metal fabricating, and many others.
1745 W. Fulton St., Chicago, IL 60612
At Imperial Recycling Company, safety, innovation, and efficiency drive everything we do. We process high-value materials on a large industrial scale—and we’re seeking a dedicated Maintenance Mechanic / Welder. You will be responsible for keeping our equipment operating efficiently through proactive maintenance and timely repairs.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and reliable Maintenance Mechanic with strong welding experience to join our team in a fast-paced scrap recycling environment. This role is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and improving a wide range of heavy equipment and machinery to ensure safe and efficient operations. The ideal candidate is hands-on, highly organized, and committed to preventative maintenance practices.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform welding and fabrication work on equipment, containers, and structural components
• Inspect, diagnose, and repair mechanical issues on forklifts, hydraulic systems, balers, and other heavy equipment
• Replace and install parts as needed to maintain operational efficiency
• Follow and complete preventative maintenance (PM) schedules on all equipment
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and parts usage
• Organize and manage shop tools, equipment, and inventory to ensure accessibility and accountability
• Troubleshoot hydraulic, mechanical, and basic electrical systems
• Ensure all work is performed safely and in compliance with company policies and regulations
• Assist with emergency repairs to minimize downtime
Qualifications:
• Proven experience as a maintenance mechanic in an industrial or heavy equipment environment
• Strong welding and fabrication skills (MIG, stick; additional methods a plus)
• Experience working with hydraulic systems, forklifts, and balers preferred
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively
• Commitment to safety and maintaining a clean work environment
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to lift heavy parts and equipment
• Comfortable working in outdoor and industrial conditions
• Ability to stand, bend, and perform physical labor for extended periods
Benefits
• Competitive salary + annual performance reviews
• Health / dental / vision coverage
• Life & Ancillary coverage
• Paid time off & holidays
• Retirement savings plan
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
Experience:
• Plant & industrial maintenance role: 3 years (Required)
• Welding : 5 years (Required)
Language:
• Spanish (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
• Chicago, IL 60612 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Imperial Recycling
Located in Chicago, IL, our facility excels in processing a wide range of materials, including aluminum, copper, brass, steel, zinc, plastic, paper, and more. With expertise in operating chopping lines for insulated wire processing, we serve diverse industries such as manufacturing, electrical utilities, metal fabricating, and many others.
1745 W. Fulton St., Chicago, IL 60612
At Imperial Recycling Company, safety, innovation, and efficiency drive everything we do. We process high-value materials on a large industrial scale—and we’re seeking a dedicated Maintenance Mechanic / Welder. You will be responsible for keeping our equipment operating efficiently through proactive maintenance and timely repairs.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and reliable Maintenance Mechanic with strong welding experience to join our team in a fast-paced scrap recycling environment. This role is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and improving a wide range of heavy equipment and machinery to ensure safe and efficient operations. The ideal candidate is hands-on, highly organized, and committed to preventative maintenance practices.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform welding and fabrication work on equipment, containers, and structural components
• Inspect, diagnose, and repair mechanical issues on forklifts, hydraulic systems, balers, and other heavy equipment
• Replace and install parts as needed to maintain operational efficiency
• Follow and complete preventative maintenance (PM) schedules on all equipment
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and parts usage
• Organize and manage shop tools, equipment, and inventory to ensure accessibility and accountability
• Troubleshoot hydraulic, mechanical, and basic electrical systems
• Ensure all work is performed safely and in compliance with company policies and regulations
• Assist with emergency repairs to minimize downtime
Qualifications:
• Proven experience as a maintenance mechanic in an industrial or heavy equipment environment
• Strong welding and fabrication skills (MIG, stick; additional methods a plus)
• Experience working with hydraulic systems, forklifts, and balers preferred
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively
• Commitment to safety and maintaining a clean work environment
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to lift heavy parts and equipment
• Comfortable working in outdoor and industrial conditions
• Ability to stand, bend, and perform physical labor for extended periods
Benefits
• Competitive salary + annual performance reviews
• Health / dental / vision coverage
• Life & Ancillary coverage
• Paid time off & holidays
• Retirement savings plan
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
Experience:
• Plant & industrial maintenance role: 3 years (Required)
• Welding : 5 years (Required)
Language:
• Spanish (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
• Chicago, IL 60612 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Welder Jobs
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.
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.
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.
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.
