Becoming a pipefitter in Chicago, IL, typically begins with an apprenticeship that combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under experienced professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 85,670 pipefitters nationwide, with a median annual wage of $61,550. In Chicago, the average weekly wage for pipefitters is $1,182. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Guild offer apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential, often exceeding $108,000 annually for experienced professionals.
Be part of a team that values safety, diversity, and excellence We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation’s freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world. We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us! Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits Job Location: Chicago Other Potential Locations: Chicago, IL Anticipated Start Date: 05/05/2025 Number of Positions: 2 Salary Range: Entry rate is approx. $34.46-41.02/hr with annual pay of $71,670-$85,321 with 3 - 5 years seniority. Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date. Embark on a fulfilling career at BNSF Railway where joining the Mechanical Department offers you the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team focused on safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement. The Pipefitter position handles and shapes metal, and fits pipes, ensuring the structural and operational integrity of our mechanical systems with precision and skill. This is a full-time job (40 hrs/wk). Shift times may vary and can change based on seniority and union rules. Expect to work overtime, nights, different shifts, weekends, and holidays. Mechanical shops operate 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. Travel is minimal. Training for this position is company-paid on-the-job training. Key responsibilities may include: Inspect and repair locomotive systems, including air, water, gas, oil, sand, and steam piping, as well as restore the plumbing of air brake, exhaust, lube oil, cooling water, air compressor, radiators, and fuel systems. Cut, shape, and modify items utilizing various methods (e.g., seaming, riveting, brazing, or welding). Utilize pipe threaders, pipe bending, pipe coupling, sheet metal brakes, shears, snaps, metal cutting saws, drills, wire feed welders, oxygen/acetylene cutting torches, and repair various components of locomotives. Install, disassemble/assemble, repair/replace locomotive and diesel engine components. Daily work is conducted in a safety sensitive environment where the working conditions can include diverse and extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow, and sleet), walking and performing work on uneven surfaces, working around loud noises, fumes, and heavy/moving machinery. At BNSF safety is one of our core values that guides us through everything we do. Our employees engage in safety conversations, through an approaching others mindset to help us achieve our tremendous potential. In addition, our employees must adhere to safety rules, policies, as well as federal and state regulations, which could include wearing personal protective equipment, responding to concerns, and taking appropriate action in emergencies. Relocation assistance is not available, and there is a 60-calendar day probationary period for new hires and 122 workday probationary period for apprentices. The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position. This is not an exhaustive list of the position’s duties. At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Basic Qualifications: • Able to work in the US without company sponsorship now AND in the future. • At least 18 years of age or will be by the anticipated start date listed above. • Ability to report for duty at the designated work location. • Able to work safely in the above working conditions. • Able to work the above shift/hours/holidays. • Ability to read, write and communicate (speak, hear, and understand) English. • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. • Ability to visually distinguish colors - red, blue, green, yellow, and lunar (clear light) • Ability to discriminate and differentiate between verbal and non-verbal sounds (signals, alarms, etc.) in the work environment. • Ability to use hands and use hand tools to perform activities involving holding, grasping, turning, and pulling. • Ability to climb ladders and get on/off equipment. • Ability to occasionally work at various heights including making repairs on top of locomotives. • Ability to bend, walk, stand, and sit occasionally with breaks. • Follow safety policies and procedures; wear required personal protective equipment. Union membership is with the Sheet Metal International Association and union dues are required per union agreement. Here are some of the perks/benefits you can expect as a BNSF employee At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that meets you where you are, a few of those benefits include: • A range of health care options for you and your dependents including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, wellness coaching, 2nd opinion services, and high-quality care network options. You will also have life insurance, provided at no cost to you. • A Railroad Retirement program and competitive 401(k) plan to help you meet your retirement goals. • Family benefits including parental and pediatric support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and spending accounts. • Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships and more! • Benefits vary by union collective bargaining agreement. • For more information, visit Benefits. All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing the Hiring Process. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC. More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. F: MO | Mechanical Transitioning Military | Operations - Mechanical | Chicago, IL | 60607
See More Details >>Job Title: Journeyman Pipefitter - Chicago, IL $32/$160 70+ hours 4+ weeks Day and Night shift Job Overview: Are you an experienced Journeyman Pipefitter with field layout expertise? Join our team in West Chicago, Illinois, and be a vital part of our dynamic organization. We offer competitive compensation at $32 per hour, along with a generous daily per diem of $160. If you're passionate about pipefitting and have a strong background in field layout, we want you on our team. Responsibilities: Perform precision pipefitting, including layout, installation, and maintenance of piping systems. Utilize your field layout experience to ensure accurate and efficient installations. Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics. Collaborate with team members to complete projects safely and on schedule. Adhere to safety protocols and industry regulations. Qualifications: Proven experience as a Journeyman Pipefitter with a focus on field layout. Expertise in precision pipefitting, including cutting, threading, and installation. Strong field layout skills, ensuring accurate positioning of piping systems. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints. Proficiency with pipefitting tools and equipment. Commitment to safety and adherence to industry regulations. Effective communication and teamwork abilities. Benefits: Competitive hourly wage of $32 per hour. Daily per diem of $160 to cover expenses while on the job. OT-70+ hours per week A safe and inclusive work environment.
See More Details >>Certified industrial Pipefitter. Minimum 5 years experience D7 Pneumatics LLC is looking for experienced pipefitters to join our team of skilled trades people. D7 Pneumatics works throughout the USA in the industrial wood industry. Top candidates will have extensive experience in the industrial piping industry. Job Responsibilities Lay-out, fabricate, assemble, install, and maintain mechanical piping systems which include industrial processing systems, and high pressure piping systems according to the working drawings. Cut and bevel pipe using oxy-fuel cutting torches, mechanical beveller’s or a combination of power and hand tools. Must be proficient in making rolling offsets, fish mouths, laterals and consistently fabricating pipe to the correct dimension. Measure, fabricate, and fit up butt-weld, socket weld, “V” grove pipe, valves, hangers, and threaded piping systems. Operate threading machine equipment. Ability to use rigging to move and get pipe in place. Qualifications/Requirements Applicant Must have a minimum of 4 - 6 years of Journey level experience fitting a variety of pipe in an industrial environment. Extensive knowledge of heavy industrial pipefitting Proficient in the use of cutting torches, plasma arc, cutting machines and rigid power threading equipment. Able to read isometric drawings of piping systems and draw ISO’s of field run piping and fabricate from these drawings. Ability to work at all heights. Prior rigging experience to include knowledge of hand signals, rigging gear, inspection, and proper use. NCCER certification is a plus. Must have good organizational abilities and possess strong oral and written communication skills. Experience with hydraulic pipe benders is an strong asset. Job Type: Full-time
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