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Welding Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$31.13 - $37.96/hr

Generate or assist in generating work plans for tasks, including relevant procedures, Hazard ... Chemicals, Solvent Dust, Epoxies, Fumes, Pesticides, Welding, Combustion * Personal Protective ...

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Welding Lab Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do welding lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a welding lab assistant?

Welding Lab Assistants are support staff who help maintain welding laboratories and assist instructors and students during welding classes or projects. Their responsibilities often include preparing materials, setting up equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and helping with basic welding tasks under supervision. They play a critical role in keeping the lab organized, safe, and efficient, allowing instructors and students to focus on learning and skill development.

What are the main responsibilities of a welding lab assistant during a typical week?

As a Welding Lab Assistant, your weekly duties often include preparing and organizing welding materials and equipment, assisting instructors or senior welders during demonstrations, and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed in the lab. You may also be responsible for maintaining inventory, cleaning equipment, and helping students or new team members with setup and troubleshooting. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently work alongside both faculty and students to create a safe and efficient learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welding lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Welding Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, safety procedures, and basic metallurgy, often backed by a welding certificate or vocational training. Familiarity with welding machines, hand tools, lab equipment, and safety compliance systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure a safe and efficient lab environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting instructors, maintaining equipment, and promoting a safe learning space for students.

What is the difference between Welding Lab Assistant vs Welding Technician?

AspectWelding Lab AssistantWelding Technician
CertificationsBasic safety and lab-specific certificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Welder)
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, training centers, educational institutionsManufacturing plants, construction sites, industrial facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with equipment setup, maintaining lab tools, supporting students or traineesPerforming welding operations, inspecting welds, troubleshooting equipment

The main difference between a Welding Lab Assistant and a Welding Technician lies in their responsibilities and work environment. Welding Lab Assistants primarily support training and lab operations, while Welding Technicians perform hands-on welding and inspection tasks in industrial settings. Certifications and daily tasks reflect these roles, with Lab Assistants focusing on support and maintenance, and Technicians on active welding work.

What job categories do people searching Welding Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Welding Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Welding Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Welding Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Welding Lab Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,383 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Maintenance Technician 2nd Shift

Hendrickson USA, LLC

Crest Hill, IL • On-site

$22.50 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Hendrickson rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

292nd of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Supports engineering by conducting tests to evaluate and validate designs and ensures a safe work environment.
Essential Functions:
  • Conduct laboratory component, systems, and vehicle tests to evaluate and validate new designs and product improvements to existing designs.
  • Review, understand and adopt new test methods and procedures to assist engineers in evaluating suspension systems and components.
  • Build, install and instrument prototype suspension components and systems onto Hendrickson and customer vehicles to evaluate designs on the proving grounds and in the field.
  • Maintain records of work performed.
  • Conduct competitive suspension benchmarking studies.
  • Stock and procure test materials.
  • Provide a safe laboratory-working environment.
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities.
  • Identify, define, and implement improvements to processes through the application of problem-solving tools by individuals and/or teams.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education and Training
  • High School Graduate or GED required.
  • Associate degree in a technical field preferred.

Minimum Qualifications
  • 5 years minimum of experience as a test technician or mechanic in the transportation industry.
  • Basic machining and welding experience preferred.
  • CDL license preferred.
  • PC experience required (spreadsheets and word processing).
  • Data Acquisition experience preferred.
  • MTS testing experience preferred.

Physical Demands
  • Frequent standing and walking on concrete.
  • Ability to lift and carry parts up to 60lbs.
  • Ability to push/pull carts (minimal 25lbs), toolboxes (up to 45lbs), and parts (minimal 60lbs).
  • Ability to drive as required.

Environmental Conditions
  • Exposure to R&D lab and manufacturing setting.
  • Noise, oil, dust, impact tool, and vibration environment.

Hendrickson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
*This is not a comprehensive list of duties. Duties may change without notice in management's sole discretion.

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