Machinist Apprentice

ATC Automation•Cookeville, TN

13d•Onsite

About The Position

ATC Automation is hiring a Machinist Apprentice in Cookeville, Tennessee. This full-time role offers hands-on, on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced machinists while the apprentice works on custom automation equipment. The apprenticeship develops skills in machining, blueprint reading, precision measurement, machine setup, tooling, materials, and manufacturing processes. Apprentices learn to make and inspect precision components used in automation systems built for customers around the world. The work takes place in a collaborative manufacturing and engineering environment and includes progressively more advanced assignments as skills develop. The role involves working with machine shop equipment and materials, maintaining a safe and organized workspace, and communicating with machinists, engineers, machine builders, and other manufacturing personnel. The position requires standing and walking for extended periods, safely handling materials weighing up to 50 pounds, and working indoors and outdoors in varied conditions, with exposure to machinery, noise, fumes, dust, oil, and other fluids.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in machining, manufacturing, or skilled trades.
Basic math skills, including the ability to perform measurements and calculations.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability and willingness to learn precision measurement techniques.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Strong work ethic and dependable attendance.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Good communication skills.
Commitment to following safety procedures and maintaining a safe work environment.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to safely lift and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Vocational or technical school.
Machine shop classes.
Manufacturing classes.
Industrial technology.
Welding or fabrication.
Automotive repair.
Small engine repair.
Mechanical assembly.
Construction or skilled trades experience.
Experience with manual or CNC machines.
Blueprint reading experience.
Experience with calipers, micrometers, or other measuring tools.
Previous manufacturing or shop experience.

Responsibilities

Learn to safely operate manual and machine tools under the guidance of experienced machinists.
Assist with setting up and operating mills, lathes, saws, grinders, and other machine shop equipment.
Learn to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work instructions.
Learn to select appropriate tools, materials, speeds, feeds, and machining methods.
Perform cutting, drilling, milling, turning, grinding, and other machining operations.
Use precision measuring equipment such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other inspection tools.
Inspect finished components to verify dimensions, tolerances, and overall quality.
Learn proper workholding, tooling, setup, and material-handling techniques.
Assist experienced machinists with more complex machining projects.
Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
Perform basic machine care and preventative maintenance.
Work closely with machinists, engineers, machine builders, and other manufacturing personnel.
Document completed work and communicate progress, questions, and issues with the team.
Continue developing machining skills through hands-on training, coaching, and progressively more advanced assignments.