Welder

Looking to further your career in the welding industry with a team that works hard and supports one another? Want to join a group of dedicated professionals led by supervisors who genuinely care about your success? If you said YES, then you’ve just found your new home! National Maintenance & Repair in Hartford, Illinois is actively hiring welders for our shipyard located alongside the historic Mississippi River. Whether you’ve only been welding for a few years, or you’re a pro ready for bigger challenges, you’ll find what you’re looking for at NMR. Each day you’ll sharpen your welding skills repairing powerful towboats and barges while working alongside supportive teammates who know the trade. We offer steady, year-round work with pay that grows with your experience. Our team members enjoy a robust benefits package that includes a 401 (k) retirement plan, health/dental/vision insurance, and generous paid time off. Multiple shifts are available, with frequent opportunities for overtime, and you’ll be able to end every day with the satisfying feeling of a job well done. If you’re ready to play a vital role in keeping America moving and join a respected company with over 100 years of excellence in the river industry, apply today!

Job Title: Welder

Location: Hartford, Illinois (401 S. Hawthorne Street, Hartford, IL 62048)

Department: Maintenance & Repair / Shipyard Operations

Reports To: Lead Welder or Shipyard Superintendent

Employment Type: Full-Time

Key Responsibilities

• Independently fabricate, repair, and maintain metal structures and equipment using various welding processes, including MIG, Stick, and other techniques common in marine and industrial environments.
• Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, specifications, and technical drawings to layout, cut, fit, and weld steel plates, pipes, and complex structural components.
• Perform high-quality welding on marine vessels, structural steel, piping systems, and heavy equipment with minimal supervision.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, grinders, cutting equipment, and shop machinery safely and efficiently.
• Conduct weld inspections, identify defects, and perform necessary repairs or rework to meet quality standards and code requirements.
• Mentor and assist apprentice welders with technique, safety practices, and job execution.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area while strictly adhering to all shipyard safety protocols, including proper PPE usage.
• Support general shipyard operations, including troubleshooting, emergency repairs, and other maintenance tasks as required.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 1–3+ years of proven welding experience in a shipyard, industrial, or structural steel environment (marine experience strongly preferred).
• Proficient in MIG and Stick welding; additional certifications in TIG, Flux Core, or other processes are a plus.
• Ability to pass a hands-on welding test and/or possess relevant certifications (AWS, ABS, or equivalent).
• Strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and attention to detail.
• Commitment to safety, quality workmanship, and working in a team-oriented environment.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for extended periods, work in various positions (including overhead, confined spaces, and heights), and tolerate outdoor/indoor shipyard conditions (heat, cold, heights, confined spaces).
• Reliable transportation and willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, and shifts in a 24/7 operational environment.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check. We are a Second Chance employer and a Drug Free Workplace.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience and skills. Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement, etc.).
• On-the-job training.
• Hands-on experience in a specialized marine repair environment.
• Stable, year-round work with a respected company in the marine industry.
• Team-oriented culture focused on safety and quality.

If you are eager to work with your hands, and contribute to keeping America’s inland waterways operational, we want to hear from you!

Compensation: $17-$25 Hourly (depending on experience)

Questions? Please contact us:

National Maintenance & Repair

401 S. Hawthorne Street, P.O. Box 38

Hartford, IL 62048

Phone: (618) 254-7451

National Maintenance & Repair is a proud equal opportunity and second chance employer. We evaluate all applicants and employees based on merit, qualifications, and job-related criteria. We welcome applications from anyone who meets the requirements of the role and are committed to providing a fair, inclusive hiring process free from unlawful discrimination.

Pay: $17.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

• Stick welding: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Locat…