Becoming a sheet metal worker in Chicago typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about three to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a projected 0.2% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1,056.18 per week in Chicago, with an annual overtime average of $49,600. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like the Sheet Metal Workers' National Apprenticeship Program help aspiring sheet metal workers find 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 Summary We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Sheet Metal Installer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in working with sheet metal, demonstrating expertise in various fabrication and installation processes. This role requires a strong understanding of construction practices and the ability to work collaboratively on projects to ensure high-quality results. Responsibilities • Fabricate, assemble, and install sheet metal products according to specifications. • Interpret blueprints and technical drawings to determine project requirements. • Utilize power tools and hand tools effectively for cutting, shaping, and joining metal components. • Restore existing metal structures as required, maintaining structural integrity and aesthetics. • Collaborate with other trades such as flooring installation and trim carpentry to complete projects efficiently. • Maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhering to safety protocols at all times. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $24.04 - $28.77 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week Schedule: • 8 hour shift • Monday to Friday Work Location: In person
See More Details >>Job Description Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service. Mechanical coordinates and oversees the repair, inspection, cleaning, rebuilding, replacing and maintenance of 1,180 pieces of rolling stock used in commuter service. The department’s goal is to provide safe, clean and reliable service while maintaining the fleet to the standards of the Federal Railroad Administration, Association of American Railroads, American Public Transit Association and the original equipment manufacturers. Reporting to the assigned director, the Sheet Metal Worker repairs and maintains passenger equipment, freight cars, and locomotives. The primary duties include locate and mark dimensions and reference lines on metal sheets and set up and operate both hand and power fabricating and forming machines. Set up and operate soldering and welding equipment; and smooth seams, joints, and burred surfaces. Install new piping systems to new machinery and for new facility services. Maintain and repair existing steam, water, air and gas piping systems in the shop facility. Repair all water coolers, toilets, sinks, hot water heaters, shop boilers, water treatment, and all associated power house piping systems that are above ground. Works under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization. This is a Union position. Starting pay rates may vary based on entry rates in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) Click here to learn more about our benefits! Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration. Job Requirements • High school diploma. • In addition to #1 above, must have a minimum of four years of experience as a Sheet Metal Worker, preferably in a railroad environmental. • Ability to climb on top, under, and around passenger cars and locomotives. • Ability to use equipment of the trade including: hacksaws, pipe cutters, threading machines, hand pipe tabs, dies, pipe hand benders, pipe bending machines, hand and portable power tools, assorted gauges, soft and silver solder equipment, marking tools and fabricating and forming machines such as shears, brakes, punches, and drill presses. • Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time. • Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision. • Ability to lift and move up to 100 pounds. Preferences: • Graduate of a Certified Railroad or equivalent apprenticeship program. Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position. Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles. Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to [email protected]. Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
See More Details >>