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 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.
