Structural Welder

Chicago, United States
Structural Welder
Company
Craft & Technical Solutions
Location
Chicago, IL
Salary
30 an hour
Via
ZipRecruiter
Job description
Craft and Technical Solutions is an established Marine and Industrial Staffing Company with offices nationwide. We partner with businesses and jobseekers to place qualified individuals efficiently. Currently, CTS is reviewing resumes for Structural Welders in Sturgeon Bay, WI!

Pay Rate: $30/hour and $660/week per diem

Job Description:
• Complete fillet and butt welds using the SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GMAW-P process (multi-pass) in 2G, 3G, and 4G positions.
• Heat oxygen/propane heating torch.
• Perform grinding and pick up work as needed.
• Complete air carbon arc gouging.
• Properly use fillet and butt gauges.
• Must have a thorough knowledge of various metals characteristics and qualities including the correct welding processes required and the effects of welding on the material.

Requirements
• Minimum 8 years of naval/commercial welding experience.
• Successfully pass several tests over a three-week period.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Familiar with OSHA regulations relative to the shipbuilding industry.
• Pass hair follicle test and background check.
• Comfortable with heights and in confined spaces.
• Lift 50lbs without assistance.
• Must understand the layout of the ship and compartment identification.
• Basic reading, writing and math skills required.
• Must be a US citizen.

Benefits

CTS, LLC offers a comprehensive benefit package to eligible employees. Eligible employees may enroll in:
• Health
• Dental
• Vision
• Voluntary Life/Voluntary AD&D
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability
• Hospital Indemnity
• Accident
• Critical Illness
• 401k

Safety and responsible work practices are of paramount importance at CTS and are woven into the fabric of everything we do. We are committed to employee safety & development, the protection of the environment and the communities where we operate. We are ready to be a partner in your career success!

Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC has a consistent policy that requires an online application to be completed before we can further consider you as an applicant for this position.

CTS is an EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs in United States

Q
What is the starting salary for entry-level welder jobs in the US in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the 10th percentile annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers at $38,700, or $18.60 per hour, as projected for 2026. Most entry-level positions require on-the-job training and pay between $18.60 and $22.00 per hour depending on location. Overtime pay is at least 1.5 times the regular rate over 40 hours per week.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What work visa do I need as a foreign welder to work in the US in 2026?
Foreign welders can apply for H-2B temporary non-agricultural work visas, requiring a temporary labor certification from DOL valid for up to 12 months. USCIS approves H-2B petitions with a FY2026 cap of 68,500 visas after exemptions. Employers must prove no US workers available and pay prevailing wage of at least $24.50 per hour.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Q
What education and experience do I need to qualify for welder jobs in 2026?
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, plus 3 to 6 months of on-the-job training or a DOL-registered apprenticeship program lasting 1-2 years. No college degree is needed, but 1-2 years of experience boosts hiring chances. About 49,800 annual openings are projected through 2033 for qualified candidates.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What documents are required to apply for welder jobs through US government programs?
Submit a resume, high school diploma, proof of apprenticeship completion via DOL Registered Apprenticeship ID, and AWS certification if held. For federal contractor jobs, include Form ETA-9062 for compliance. Applications via Apprenticeship.gov require SSN and training hours log.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration