ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Welding Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Labor Solutions, LLC

Be Seen First

Welder Machine Operator

Addison, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

This role is responsible for MIG welding, mesh welding, and resistance welding, operating production machinery, and ensuring all parts meet quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate ...

McNichols

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band ... All uniforms, steel toed boots, welding gear, and safety equipment is provided in a clean, safe ...

McNichols Co

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band ... All uniforms, steel toed boots, welding gear, and safety equipment is provided in a clean, safe ...

W3Global

Four Slide Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$30 - $40/hr

Operate CNC machines and manual tools for machining, grinding, welding, and fabrication * Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and GD&T specifications * Use precision measuring tools ...

W-3 Corp

Four Slide Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Operate CNC machines and manual tools for machining, grinding, welding, and fabrication * Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and GD&T specifications * Use precision measuring tools ...

Labor Solutions, LLC

Be Seen First

Machine Set-Up Operator

Addison, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

This position is responsible for setting up, adjusting, and operating fabrication machinery used in ... MIG/TIG welding knowledge * Experience in custom fabrication environments * Understanding of lean ...

Lippert

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.90/hr

Must be able to load and unload workpiece into the welding machine. * Must able to physically lift and maneuver weights more than fifty pounds * Must possess successful problem-solving skills * Must ...

Lippert

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.90/hr

Must be able to load and unload workpiece into the welding machine. * Must able to physically lift and maneuver weights more than fifty pounds * Must possess successful problem-solving skills * Must ...

Lippert

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.90/hr

Must be able to load and unload workpiece into the welding machine. * Must able to physically lift and maneuver weights more than fifty pounds * Must possess successful problem-solving skills * Must ...

General Kinematics Corporation

Welder

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Follow, create and help maintain Welding Procedure Specifications. * Operate machinery used in the production process, or assist machine operators. * Assemble items as instructed by floor supervisor.

General Kinematics Corporation

Welder

Crystal Lake, IL · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Follow, create and help maintain Welding Procedure Specifications. * Operate machinery used in the production process, or assist machine operators. * Assemble items as instructed by floor supervisor.

General Kinematics Corporation

Welder

Crystal Lake, IL

$20 - $26/hr

Follow, create and help maintain Welding Procedure Specifications. * Operate machinery used in the production process, or assist machine operators. * Assemble items as instructed by floor supervisor.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWelding Machine Operator JobsWelding Machine Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Welding Machine Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$16

$23

How much do welding machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding machine operator in Chicago, IL is $16.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do welders make $100 an hour?

Welders, including welding machine operators, typically earn less than $100 an hour, with average wages ranging from $15 to $30 per hour depending on experience, location, and industry. Highly skilled or specialized welders working in certain high-demand sectors or with advanced certifications may approach or exceed this rate, but it is uncommon for most to regularly earn $100 an hour.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding machine operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn around $50 an hour, especially in specialized fields such as industrial fabrication, underwater welding, or working in high-demand industries like oil and gas. Salaries vary based on location, certification level, and the complexity of the work performed.

What is the highest paid welding job?

The highest paid welding jobs typically involve specialized skills such as underwater welding, aerospace welding, or working in the oil and gas industry, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles usually require advanced certifications, safety training, and experience in challenging environments. Skilled welders in these fields are compensated for their expertise and the risks involved.

What does a Welding Machine Operator do?

A Welding Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining welding machines used to join metal parts together. They read blueprints or work orders, adjust machine settings, monitor the welding process, and inspect finished products for quality. Operators must ensure safety protocols are followed and may also perform basic machine maintenance or troubleshooting. This role is essential in manufacturing, construction, and repair industries where precise metalwork is required.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Welding machine operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with higher salaries possible for those with specialized skills, certifications, or experience in high-demand industries like oil and gas or aerospace. Earning $300,000 is uncommon and usually requires advanced expertise, supervisory roles, or working in high-paying sectors over many years.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Welding Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Welding Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with welding machines, tools like calipers and micrometers, and certifications such as AWS Certified Welder are typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills make an operator stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing precise welds, ensuring workplace safety, and maintaining high-quality standards in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Welding Machine Operator vs Welder?

AspectWelding Machine OperatorWelder
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, possibly AWS certificationRequires welding certifications like AWS Certified Welder
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery in manufacturing or fabrication settingsPerforms manual welding in various settings, including construction and repair
Job ResponsibilitiesSets up and operates welding machines, monitors welding processPerforms manual welding tasks, joins metal parts

While both roles involve working with metal and welding equipment, Welding Machine Operators focus on operating and monitoring welding machinery, whereas Welders perform manual welding tasks. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in the level of manual skill and machine operation focus.

What are some common challenges faced by Welding Machine Operators on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Welding Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent weld quality, managing equipment malfunctions, and working in environments with high temperatures or confined spaces. These challenges can be addressed through regular equipment maintenance, strict adherence to safety protocols, and continuous training to stay updated on new welding techniques and technologies. Additionally, effective communication with supervisors and team members helps ensure that any issues are quickly identified and resolved, contributing to a safer and more productive work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Welding Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Welding Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Welding Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Welding Machine Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Welding Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welding Machine Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,506 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Welder Machine Operator

Welder Machine Operator

Labor Solutions, LLC

Addison, IL • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Shift Schedule

Monday through Thursday | 5:00 AM – 3:30 PM
(10-hour shifts, 3-day weekends)

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and dependable MIG Welder & Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team in Addison, IL. This role is responsible for MIG welding, mesh welding, and resistance welding, operating production machinery, and ensuring all parts meet quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate understands welding processes, can troubleshoot basic weld issues, and thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform MIG welding, mesh welding, and resistance welding (spot welding) on steel and aluminum components
  • Set up and operate resistance welding equipment for wire mesh and fabricated assemblies
  • Weld wire mesh panels, frames, and assemblies with consistent quality and accuracy
  • Adjust weld settings (current, time, pressure) to meet quality requirements
  • Set up, operate, and monitor production machines and welding equipment
  • Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and welding symbols
  • Inspect finished welds for strength, penetration, and appearance
  • Perform basic machine adjustments and routine maintenance
  • Load and unload materials, fixtures, wire mesh, and finished parts
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
  • Follow all safety procedures, OSHA standards, and company policies
  • Work closely with supervisors and team members to meet production goals

Qualifications

  • 1–3 years of experience in MIG welding, mesh welding, and resistance welding preferred
  • Working knowledge of spot welding principles (heat, pressure, time)
  • Ability to read blueprints and use measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, gauges)
  • Experience welding thin-gauge material and wire mesh
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Experience working in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality

Preferred Skills

  • Welding certification or technical training
  • Experience with resistance/spot welders, mesh welders, or automated welding equipment
  • Experience with production machinery, jigs, or fixtures
  • Forklift experience (a plus, not required)
  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing practices

Benefits (if applicable)

  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Stable, long-term employment with growth potential

Company Description

Labor Solutions, LLC is a leader in the professional, temporary, and direct hire industry throughout the Midwest area. Our clients range from individual entrepreneurs to large corporations, and while we are big enough to serve Fortune 100 companies, we are small enough to stay nimble in an always-changing market.
Thank you!