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
• 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
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Welder Jobs
What is the median hourly wage for welders in the United States as of 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the median hourly wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is $25.22 as of May 2026 data. Welders in manufacturing earn $26.15 per hour on average while those in construction receive $24.80 per hour. Overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate applies after 40 hours per week under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
What certifications and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, welders must complete a high school diploma or equivalent plus a postsecondary welding program lasting 6 to 18 months. AWS Certified Welder credential and 2,000 hours of documented experience are required for most positions in structural welding. Employers in shipbuilding and aerospace require additional ASME Section IX qualifications.
What are the standard working hours and paid leave entitlements for welders in the United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, full-time welders work 40 hours per week with overtime required after 40 hours. Workers receive at least 10 paid holidays and accrue 10 days of paid sick leave annually under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions. Union contracts in construction add 15 days of paid vacation after one year.
How are federal income taxes calculated on welder wages in the United States for 2026?
As per the Internal Revenue Service, welders earning $52,500 annually in 2026 pay 12% federal income tax on income between $11,601 and $47,150 plus 22% on the amount above $47,150. Social Security tax is withheld at 6.2% up to the $168,600 wage base. Employers must issue Form W-2 by January 31 each year.
