Welder I

Progressive Recovery, Inc.; Dupo (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Progressive Recovery, Inc. is seeking an entry-level Welder on 1st or 2nd shift in Illinois. You will learn MIG, TIG, and flux-core welding under supervision while pursuing WPQ certifications per ASME Section IX. The role offers advancement through a structured career ladder and hands-on training in a production environment.

Compensation ranges from $20.00 to $24.00 per hour, based on experience, with a shift differential for the second shift and potential overtime or weekend work as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a welding certificate or training program preferred.
• Willingness to learn MIG, TIG, and/or flux-core welding.

Responsibilities

• Perform MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), and/or flux-core (FCAW) welding on basic assemblies, piping, structural frames, and tank components under direct supervision.
• Read and apply Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and blueprints with guidance from a supervisor or mentor.
• Fit and tack-weld basic components using jigs, fixtures, clamps, and measuring tools to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area; follow PPE and safety procedures.
• Communicate promptly with supervisor about quality issues or material needs; participate in on-the-job training toward Welder II.

Skills

MIG welding

TIG welding

Flux-core welding

Blueprint reading

Attention to detail

Safety mindset

Education

High school diploma or GED

Welding certificate or training program

Tools

Welding machines

Grinders

Cutting torches

Measuring tools

Job description

Description

Reports To: Welding Supervisor

Shift: 1st Shift, 6:00 AM — 2:30 PM, or 2nd Shift, 3:00 PM — 11:30 PM ( $2/hr shift differential), Monday through Friday (overtime and occasional weekends as required by production needs).

Compensation: $20.00 — $24.00 per hour, based on experience

The Welder is the entry point into our structured welder career ladder. In this role, you’ll build core welding skills under the guidance of experienced welders and the shop’s Welding Leaders, working toward Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) certifications under ASME Section IX as you progress. This position is ideal for someone early in their welding career who is ready to learn multiple processes in a real production environment and grow toward independent, certified work.

Key Responsibilities & Functions

• Perform MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), and/or flux-core (FCAW) welding on basic assemblies, piping, structural frames, and tank components under direct supervision.
• Work toward and pass Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) tests per ASME Section IX as required to advance in the shop’s career ladder.
• Read and apply basic Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and blueprints with guidance from a supervisor or mentor.
• Fit and tack-weld basic components using jigs, fixtures, clamps, and measuring tools to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Perform basic visual inspection of your own welds against acceptance criteria.
• Set up and operate welding machines, grinders, cutting torches, and related hand and power tools safely.
• Select filler metals and shielding gases as directed for the material and thickness being welded.
• Maintain a clean, organized, safe work area.
• Follow all safety protocols, including proper PPE use, hot work/fire prevention procedures, ventilation practices, confined space procedures, and safe handling of compressed gases.
• Participate in structured on-the-job training and complete assigned curriculum objectives toward the next level (Welder II).
• Maintain accurate production records and documentation of completed work.
• Communicate promptly with your supervisor or mentor about quality issues, equipment problems, or material needs.

Requirements

Experience

• 1–2 years of hands-on welding experience, or completion of a welding training/certificate program.
• Willingness to learn and cross-train across MIG, TIG, and/or flux-core welding processes.
• Exposure to blueprints, weld symbols, or written work instructions preferred.

Technical Skills

• Basic proficiency in at least one welding process (MIG, TIG, or flux-core).
• Willingness and aptitude to learn additional processes and positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead).
• Basic blueprint-reading ability, or strong aptitude to learn.
• Comfortable using basic hand and power tools (grinders, cutting torches, drills).
• Willingness to learn precision measuring tools (tape measures, squares, calipers, levels).

Professional Skills

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality workmanship.
• Eagerness to learn and accept coaching from supervisors and mentors.
• Reliable attendance and a strong safety mindset.
• Effective communication with supervisors and teammates.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a welding certificate or training program (technical school, apprenticeship, or equivalent) preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience will be considered.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work safely in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work in awkward positions for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work with exposure to heat, sparks, fumes, bright arc flash/light, and noise.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including welding helmet, gloves, safety-toe boots, and protective clothing, for extended periods.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including heat, cold, and around energized production equipment.

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 employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.