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Weld Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Teacher - Welding

Gary, IN · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Coordinates the development of the district's welding job preparation plan. Provides instruction in the areas of shop, oxygen-actylene equipment, arc/MIG/TIG welding, carbon arc cutting, fitting and ...

Teacher - Welding

Gary, IN · On-site

$46K - $59K/yr

Ability to: • Develop promotional materials for the welding program. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE A minimum of five years welding experience required. Must have good interpersonal skills. Must ...

Showing results 21-40

Weld Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.6K

$63.4K

$109.7K

How much do weld instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for weld instructor in Chicago, IL is $63,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $65,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Weld Instructor vs Welding Technician?

AspectWeld InstructorWelding Technician
CertificationsWelding certifications, teaching credentialsWelding certifications, technical licenses
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, training labs, workshopsManufacturing plants, construction sites, repair shops
Primary FocusTeaching welding skills, curriculum developmentPerforming welding tasks, troubleshooting, maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageVocational schools, community colleges, training centersManufacturers, construction companies, repair services

Weld Instructors primarily focus on teaching welding techniques and safety in educational settings, requiring teaching credentials alongside welding certifications. Welding Technicians perform hands-on welding work in industrial environments, emphasizing technical skills and practical experience. While both roles require welding certifications, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What is a weld instructor?

Weld Instructors are professionals who teach students the principles and techniques of welding in educational or vocational settings. They develop lesson plans, demonstrate proper welding methods, ensure safety protocols are followed, and assess students' skills through practical and theoretical evaluations. Weld Instructors often have extensive hands-on welding experience and certifications, enabling them to train future welders for careers in various industries. Their role is essential in preparing students for certification exams and employment opportunities in welding.

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

To thrive as a Weld Instructor, you need advanced welding expertise, knowledge of various welding techniques, and typically a welding certification or relevant teaching credentials. Familiarity with industry-standard welding equipment, safety protocols, and instructional tools is essential. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to mentor and motivate students are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure effective teaching, student safety, and the development of competent and confident future welders.

What are some common challenges a weld instructor faces when training students with varying skill levels?

A common challenge for Weld Instructors is adapting teaching methods to accommodate students with diverse backgrounds and experience levels. Instructors must balance hands-on demonstrations, safety instruction, and individualized feedback to ensure all students progress effectively. Managing classroom safety while supervising multiple welding stations is also critical. Patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to quickly identify and address students' unique learning needs are essential for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Weld Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Weld Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Weld Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Weld Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Weld Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Weld Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Weld Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,404 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Welding Inspector (CWI)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Itasca, IL

$38 - $45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Title: Industrial Welder (CWI)
Location: Itasca, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Shift : 1st
Compensation: $38-45/hr
Must have Skill Set: Certified Welding Instructor Certification

Overview:

We are hiring an experienced Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) to support high-quality industrial fabrication in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for welding, inspection, and ensuring all assemblies meet strict quality, safety, and production standards. If you take pride in precision work and getting it right the first time, this is a great opportunity to join a strong, team-oriented operation.


Job Duties:

  • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and weld symbols
  • Set up and operate MIG, TIG, Stick, and Gas welding equipment
  • Prepare materials by cutting, grinding, cleaning, and aligning for proper fit-up
  • Perform welding in flat, vertical, and overhead positions
  • Inspect welds (visual and dimensional) to ensure compliance with specifications
  • Identify and report non-conforming materials or quality issues
  • Use hand and power tools to finish parts to drawing requirements
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance and maintain accurate records
  • Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and environmental regulations
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment

Qualifications:

  • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) – required
  • 5+ years of welding experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
  • Strong knowledge of MIG, TIG, Stick, and Gas welding processes
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and weld symbols
  • Experience with inspection, quality control, and documentation
  • Familiarity with forklifts, overhead cranes, and lifts (preferred)


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.