1

Weld Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Weld Associate-1

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.95 - $21/hr

The welder's main responsibility is to join, fabricate, and repair metal, including but not limited to carbon, stainless steel and aluminum, by applying appropriate welding techniques and maintaining ...

The welder's main responsibility is to join, fabricate, and repair metal, including but not limited to carbon, stainless steel and aluminum, by applying appropriate welding techniques and maintaining ...

The welder's main responsibility is to join, fabricate, and repair metal, including but not limited to carbon, stainless steel and aluminum, by applying appropriate welding techniques and maintaining ...

Welder

Hobart, IN · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 1 year experience in welding * Good mechanical aptitude * Ability to read blueprints * Knowledge of hand tools and power tools * Good ...

Welder

Hobart, IN · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 1 year experience in welding * Good mechanical aptitude * Ability to read blueprints * Knowledge of hand tools and power tools * Good ...

Welder

Hobart, IN · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 1 year experience in welding * Good mechanical aptitude * Ability to read blueprints * Knowledge of hand tools and power tools * Good ...

ILUS - Welder

Hobart, IN

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 1 year experience in welding Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical aptitude * Ability to read blueprints * Knowledge of ...

ILUS - Welder

Hobart, IN · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 1 year experience in welding Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical aptitude * Ability to read blueprints * Knowledge of ...

ILUS - Welder

Hobart, IN

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 1 year experience in welding Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical aptitude * Ability to read blueprints * Knowledge of ...

ILUS - Welder 2

Hobart, IN

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 3-5 years experience in welding * AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical ...

ILUS - Welder 2

Hobart, IN

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 3-5 years experience in welding * AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical ...

ILUS - Welder 2

Hobart, IN

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 3-5 years experience in welding * AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical ...

ILUS - Welder 2

Hobart, IN

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 3-5 years experience in welding * AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical ...

ILUS - Welder 2

Hobart, IN · On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 3-5 years experience in welding * AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical ...

ILUS - Welder 2

Hobart, IN · On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Certificate or Associate degree in welding * Minimum 3-5 years experience in welding * AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Requirements: * Good mechanical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Weld Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.8K

$145.5K

$319.9K

How much do weld associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for weld associate in Chicago, IL is $145,466.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $218,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Weld Associate may face during collaborative projects, and how are they typically addressed?

Weld Associates often work as part of a team, collaborating closely with engineers, fabricators, and quality control personnel. A common challenge is ensuring that welds meet both design specifications and safety standards, especially when working on complex assemblies or tight deadlines. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential to avoid errors and rework. Teams usually address these challenges through regular project meetings, thorough review of blueprints, and adherence to standardized welding procedures. Proactive problem-solving and a willingness to seek guidance from experienced colleagues can help Weld Associates thrive in collaborative environments.

What is the difference between Weld Associate vs Welder?

AspectWeld AssociateWelder
CertificationsTypically holds basic welding certifications, such as AWS Certified WelderRequires specific certifications based on welding type, often similar to Weld Associate
Work EnvironmentOften works in manufacturing, construction, or fabrication settingsWorks in similar environments, performing welding tasks
Job RoleAssists in welding tasks, prepares materials, and supports welding operationsPerforms actual welding, cutting, and fabrication tasks

The main difference between a Weld Associate and a Welder is that the Weld Associate typically supports welding operations and may have basic certifications, while the Welder performs the actual welding tasks. Both roles often work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, but the Welder's focus is on executing welds directly.

Do welders make $100 an hour?

Weld associates typically do not earn $100 an hour; most welders' wages vary based on experience, location, and industry, with average hourly rates generally below that threshold. Highly skilled or specialized welders, such as those with certifications in pipe welding or underwater welding, may earn higher wages, but $100 an hour is uncommon for most positions.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding jobs that pay $50 an hour typically include skilled positions such as pipeline welders, industrial welders, and underwater welders, often requiring specialized certifications and experience. These roles are usually found in industries like oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing, and may involve working in challenging environments or requiring overtime. Compensation varies based on location, skill level, and project complexity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Weld Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Weld Associate, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with formal welding training often preferred. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, and certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) credentials are commonly required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure high-quality welds, workplace safety, and efficient collaboration on manufacturing or construction projects.

What can I do with an Associate in welding?

An Associate in welding prepares individuals for entry-level welding positions in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and maintenance. Graduates can work as welders, welding technicians, or inspectors, often requiring certification in specific welding techniques and safety standards. The degree provides foundational skills in welding processes, blueprint reading, and safety protocols.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually, but this level of income is typically achieved through extensive experience, specialized skills such as pipe or underwater welding, working in high-paying industries, or overtime. Most welders earn between $40,000 and $70,000 per year, with top earners in certain niches or with advanced certifications reaching higher salaries.

What are Weld Associates?

Weld Associates are skilled workers responsible for joining metal parts together using various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, or arc welding. They read blueprints or technical drawings, set up and operate welding equipment, and inspect their work for quality and safety. Weld Associates often work in manufacturing, construction, or repair industries and may also assist with fabricating and finishing metal structures. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and a strong understanding of safety protocols are important for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Weld jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Weld jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Weld Associate-1

Lippert

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.95 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Lippert rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 107 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Who We Are:
Lippert is a leading, global manufacturer and supplier of highly engineered products and customized solutions, dedicated to shaping, growing and bettering the RV, marine, automotive, commercial vehicle and building products industries. We combine our strategic manufacturing capabilities with the power of our winning team culture to deliver unrivaled customer service, award-winning innovation and premium products to all of our customers.
Why We are Different:
At Lippert, Everyone Matters. This is not just a tagline or empty promise; it is who we are. We have intentionally created a culture that values and celebrates our team members' unique and varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. We strive to give our team members a deeper sense of purpose at work, and we continue to build a better work environment by aligning our cultural and business strategies with the needs of our team members.
What You will Get:
  1. A unique, inclusive and supportive company culture.
  2. Comprehensive benefit offerings including medical, dental, vision, 401k with employer match, vacation, and more!
  3. Fair and competitive compensation.
  4. Career development and mentoring and opportunities to grow.
  5. Holiday, personal and vacation days.

Summary/Objective:
The welder's main responsibility is to join, fabricate, and repair metal, including but not limited to carbon, stainless steel and aluminum, by applying appropriate welding techniques and maintaining Freedman Seating quality standards.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  1. Read blueprints and/or job procedures to determine appropriate welding process.
  2. Ability to weld with minimal quality issues.
  3. Ability to measure weldments using quality control equipment.
  4. Performs basic fit up operation in preparation for welding, on stock and standard products.
  5. Meet minimum production requirements.
  6. Inspect completed welds to determine structural soundness.
  7. May train others.
  8. Abides OSHA and FSC rules and regulations for safety.
  9. Wear typical protection gear in an environment that contains dust, odors and noise.
  10. Work well under pressure.
  11. Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Working Conditions:
  1. Fast-paced manufacturing environment
  2. Repetitive use of hands to operate machines

Qualifications:
  1. High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  2. One or more years of experience preferred and/or combination of education and experience.
  3. MIG (GMAW) welding of carbon steel required.
  4. Ability to interpret welding blueprints and call-outs.
  5. Ability to read English.
  6. Must have strong math and measurement skills.
  7. Ability to work and communicate effectively with others.

Preferred Requirements:
  • Education: Technical Diploma in Welding

Competencies:
  1. Customer Focus
  2. Decision Quality
  3. Results, Action Oriented
  4. Displaying Technical Expertise
  5. Time Management

Supervisory Responsibility:
This role does not have any supervisory responsibility upon hiring.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is regularly required to talk and hear. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing all day. The Team Member may have to lift and/or move items over 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This is a full-time hourly position, and hours of work and days are decided by production schedules and your reporting manager.
Pay Rate: $19.95 -$21.00 per hour 2nd shift 3:00pm-11:30pm
Freedman by Lippert determines pay based on several factors, including but not limited to the position being offered, education, skills, work experience, and other factors permitted by law. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range.
Freedman by Lippert offers Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401K with employer match, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance, Paid Family Leave, Paid Time Off and Sick Time. For a more comprehensive list please see Human Resources.
Freedman by Lippert is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.
Travel:
No travel required.
Work Authorization/Security Clearance
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Other Duties:Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the Team Member for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

What Lippert employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom