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Entry Level Welding Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Welding Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25

$42

$58

How much do entry level welding engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding engineer in Chicago, IL is $42.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.43 and $48.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level welding engineer do?

An entry level welding engineer assists in designing, developing, and implementing welding processes within manufacturing or construction projects. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to help select appropriate welding techniques and materials, conduct quality inspections, and troubleshoot welding problems on-site. Their responsibilities may also include preparing technical reports, ensuring safety standards are met, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives in welding operations. This role is ideal for recent graduates in welding engineering or related fields seeking hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level welding engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Welding Engineer, you need a solid background in welding processes, metallurgy, and engineering fundamentals, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in welding engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, welding simulation tools, and relevant industry certifications such as AWS Certified Welding Engineer is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in team environments and technical discussions. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring weld quality, process efficiency, and adherence to safety and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level welding engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level welding engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced manufacturing environment, learning to interpret complex blueprints, and understanding various welding codes and standards. To overcome these challenges, new engineers should actively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in on-the-job training, and stay updated with industry certifications. Building strong communication skills is also crucial, as welding engineers frequently collaborate with production teams, quality inspectors, and design engineers to ensure weld integrity and safety.

What is the difference between Entry Level Welding Engineer vs Entry Level Welding Technician?

AspectEntry Level Welding EngineerEntry Level Welding Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in welding engineering, materials science, or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in welding technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development in engineering settingsHands-on welding, inspection, and equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, aerospace, automotive, construction firmsManufacturing plants, fabrication shops, quality control labs

Entry Level Welding Engineers focus on designing and improving welding processes, requiring engineering degrees. In contrast, Entry Level Welding Technicians perform hands-on tasks like welding, inspection, and equipment setup, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Welding Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Welding Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Welding Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,234 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

$40K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Company Description

AIM Inc. (Automated Industrial Machinery Inc) manufactures 2 and 3 dimensional CNC wire bending machinery.  The company is an active machinery exporter via its two manufacturing facilities in North America and Europe.  Founded in 1992 by Constantine Grapsas, AIM Inc. has grown to become the premier CNC bending machine supplier serving customers worldwide.

The modular machine construction technique AIM Inc. employs provides unprecedented machine upgrade flexibility and versatility.  2D machines are able to manufacture rectangular frames as large as 72" (1828mm) by simply changing frame modules.  Both 2D and 3D machines can expand to accommodate accessory machine modules.  These include chamfering, butt welding, end forming, drilling, marking, threading, and press operations.  Many of these modules are offered in-line, allowing for turn-key end product manufacturing.

The newest machine lines include the value oriented AccuForm Compact, resetting the bar for entry level, automated CNC wire bending machines and the AccuForm "Rebar", a dedicated rebar CNC bending machine, with world class strength and robustness, yet employing AIM's exclusive SmartEditor easy to use machine controller environment.

Continuing the quest to provide finish customer solutions, AIM Inc. provides total turn-key integration in partnership with Fanuc Robotics.  AIM Inc. has installed complete systems, integrating the AIM Inc. bending machines with Fanuc Robotics articulated robots for complete lights out operation, allowing the customer to achieve new lean manufacturing capabilities.

With technical sales representatives throughout North America, Europe, and in strategic locations throughout the globe, AIM supplies the world with wire and rebar manufacturing automation solutions.  AIM has made significant installations in Asia, Australia, and South America.

Mission Statement - "Total Customer Satisfaction"

AIM Inc.'s mission is to provide total customer satisfaction by serving the manufacturing industry honorably and providing products and services of superior quality and at a fair price.  AIM Inc. consistently puts customer interest first and continually improves its products, offering the best value CNC bending machinery solutions.

Job Description

The purpose of the Engineering Technician is to setup new machinery and to provide support for customers through training, product development, and troubleshooting.

Key Responsibilities

- Setup and troubleshooting of both new and existing machinery and work cells

- Program CNC equipment to produce customer samples and/or acceptance parts

- Train customers on proper operation, programming, and maintenance of equipment both in house and onsite

- Provide feedback for production and engineering teams when problems occur and follow through the process for improvement

- Conducts quality assurance tests on new machinery

- Create and maintain documentation for new and existing machinery

- Assist in the development of new products and industrial automation solutions

Key Skills

- Strong analytical problem solving and technical skills including mechanical, electrical and programming

- Strong oral & written communications and teamwork-Ability to read electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics

- Proficiency with MS Outlook, Word, Excel-Working knowledge of motion controls systems a plus

- Experience programming robots (Fanuc preferred) a plus

- Ability to work independently and think creativity

Benefits

- Medical, dental, and vision coverage

- Simple IRA savings

- Life insurance-Vacation, holiday and personal time in a simple P.T.O. Plan (Paid Time Off)

- Training and Development-Career advancement

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $40,000.00 to $65,000.00 /year


Required education:

  • Associate

Required experience:

  • Programming: 1 year

Required language:

  • English

Required license or certification:

  • Driver's License
Qualifications

- Degree,significant coursework/certifications, or Experience in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering or Maintenance-1-3+ Years' Experience Programming, Troubleshooting, or Operating Machinery
- Ability to travel up to 25%
- Valid Driver's License

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.