MIG Lead Welder
Company
Creative Staffing Inc.
Location
Chicago, IL
Job Type
Full-time
Via
via Talents By Vaia
Apply On
Job Description
Job Description
Job Description. A MIG Lead (Welding Team Lead) job involves supervising welders, ensuring quality & safety, managing workflow, and providing technical guidance, focusing on MIG/TIG welding to fabricate and repair metal structures, interpreting blueprints, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with production/engineering for process improvement, while also training junior staff and keeping records. Key Responsibilities
• Team Leadership: Plan, assign, and review work for a team of welders; provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Technical Execution: Perform complex MIG/TIG welding, cutting, brazing, and soldering on various metals (steel, aluminum, copper).
• Quality & Safety: Inspect welds, ensure compliance with industry standards (AWS, ASME), enforce safety protocols, and maintain equipment.
• Process Improvement: Collaborate with engineering to troubleshoot issues, optimize techniques, and improve overall production.
• Planning & Documentation: Read blueprints/schematics, estimate materials/labor, track production metrics, and maintain records.
• Equipment Management: Oversee maintenance of welding machines, tools, and shop equipment.
Powered by ExactHire:191421
Job Description. A MIG Lead (Welding Team Lead) job involves supervising welders, ensuring quality & safety, managing workflow, and providing technical guidance, focusing on MIG/TIG welding to fabricate and repair metal structures, interpreting blueprints, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with production/engineering for process improvement, while also training junior staff and keeping records. Key Responsibilities
• Team Leadership: Plan, assign, and review work for a team of welders; provide training, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Technical Execution: Perform complex MIG/TIG welding, cutting, brazing, and soldering on various metals (steel, aluminum, copper).
• Quality & Safety: Inspect welds, ensure compliance with industry standards (AWS, ASME), enforce safety protocols, and maintain equipment.
• Process Improvement: Collaborate with engineering to troubleshoot issues, optimize techniques, and improve overall production.
• Planning & Documentation: Read blueprints/schematics, estimate materials/labor, track production metrics, and maintain records.
• Equipment Management: Oversee maintenance of welding machines, tools, and shop equipment.
Powered by ExactHire:191421
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.
