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Welding Supervisor

Chicago Metal Fabricators
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 10/16/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/13/2027

Position Summary:

The Welding Supervisor is responsible for overseeing all welding operations in a custom plate fabrication environment, ensuring that jobs are completed safely, accurately, and on schedule. This position manages a team of skilled welders and fitters producing complex, one-off or short-run fabricated components to customer specifications. The supervisor ensures quality workmanship, efficient workflow, and adherence to welding codes and shop drawings while fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Supervise and coordinate daily welding operations across multiple projects, ensuring all work meets specifications, drawings, and quality requirements.
  • Assign and monitor work orders to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met for custom fabrication projects.
  • Interpret blueprints, layouts, and weld symbols for welders and fitters; provide direction for proper joint preparation, fit-up, and weld sequencing.
  • Inspect and verify welds in accordance with AWS and company standards; assist Quality Assurance in documenting weld inspections and repairs.
  • Train and mentor welders and fitters, developing team members’ skills in advanced welding, layout, and fabrication techniques.
  • Coordinate with engineering and project management to clarify drawings, resolve technical issues, and optimize fabrication methods.
  • Ensure all welding machines, torches, and positioners are maintained and calibrated properly; coordinate repairs and preventive maintenance.
  • Maintain a safe and organized work area, enforcing company safety policies and OSHA standards.
  • Manage materials and consumables, tracking filler metals, gases, and supplies to minimize downtime and waste.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement efforts in productivity, weld quality, and workflow efficiency.
  • Participate in WPS/PQR development and support qualification testing for new materials and processes when needed.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical or trade school in welding/fabrication preferred.
  • Minimum 5–7 years of experience in heavy or custom plate fabrication, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
  • Proven experience with carbon steel, stainless, and alloy plate fabrication.
  • Strong knowledge of MIG, TIG, FCAW, and SAW processes.
  • Familiarity with AWS D1.1, D1.6,D14.1, & D15.1 welding codes.

Skills & Competencies:

  • Ability to read and interpret detailed fabrication drawings, weld symbols, and GD&T.
  • Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to coach and motivate a diverse team.
  • Hands-on understanding of layout, fitting, and assembly for custom fabrication.
  • Good problem-solving and decision-making ability under tight schedules.
  • Working knowledge of material handling equipment (overhead cranes, forklifts, positioners).
  • Computer proficiency for basic production reporting (Excel, ERP systems, etc.).
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish is a strong plus.

Certifications (Preferred):

  • AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalent.
  • OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification.
  • Forklift and crane operator certifications.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to stand, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs for extended periods.
  • Work in shop conditions involving heat, noise, and fumes.
  • Use of appropriate PPE including helmet, gloves, and safety gear.

Compensation and Benefits:

Competitive pay commensurate with experience, medical/dental/vision, 401(k), paid vacation, and opportunities for advancement.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Experience:

  • Welding: 10 years (Required)
  • Supervising: 5 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Certified Welding Inspector (Preferred)
  • Welding Certification (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $85,000 - $95,000

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