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
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Quick answers about Driver Jobs
What is the minimum hourly wage for commercial driver jobs in the United States as of January 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the federal minimum wage for drivers is $7.25 per hour as of January 2026, with overtime required at 1.5 times the rate after 40 hours per week. Many states mandate at least $16.50 per hour for CDL holders operating interstate routes.
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As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, H-2B visas for non-agricultural drivers are capped at 66,000 for fiscal year 2026 with applications due by March 2026. Applicants must hold a valid foreign driver's license and pass a medical exam before petition approval.
What experience and license are needed to qualify for truck driver positions in the United States?
As per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, applicants must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid Class A CDL, and have completed 120 hours of training including 40 hours behind the wheel by 2026. No formal education beyond high school is required.
What documents are required when applying for driver jobs through official U.S. channels in 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants must submit a valid CDL, Social Security card, proof of citizenship or work authorization, and a completed DOT medical certificate dated within the last 24 months. Background checks via FMCSA are mandatory before hiring.
