Welder I

Progressive Recovery, Inc.•Dupo, IL

5d•$20 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Welder I 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.

Requirements

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.
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).
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.
High school diploma or GED required.
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.

Nice To Haves

Exposure to blueprints, weld symbols, or written work instructions preferred.
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.

Responsibilities

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.