Metal Fabricator Trainee - January 2027

Eastman•Kingsport, TN
•Onsite

About The Position

This program provides a one-year opportunity for selected students to develop their knowledge and skills as a metal fabricator/welder in an industrial setting. A trainee will receive college credit towards their Associate of Applied Science degree at NSCC, MECC or VHCC if they are a current student in the program. Completion of this program is one of the requirements for consideration for possible future employment as an Eastman metal fabricator apprentice. Upon completion of the Metal Fabricator/Welder trainee assignment the student will have been exposed to a variety of tools used to fabricate and repair various parts used in the manufacturing process at the Kingsport site. The student will be closely supervised and mentored on a daily basis with the goal of providing a hands-on learning environment. The trainee program duration is 12 months.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED is required.
  • Must be a recent graduate (within the last 2 years) or currently enrolled in Northeast State, Mountain Empire or Virginia Highlands Metal Fabrication program.
  • Alternatively, must have previously completed the combination welding program at TCAT.
  • Students completing their 2nd semester are eligible to apply.
  • If currently enrolled as a student, must maintain good standing with their educational institution during the trainee program and/or until graduation.
  • Must be able to demonstrate basic knowledge and skills by completing the ACT Workkeys assessment testing and attain required scores within 12 months of hire date.
  • Must achieve required WorkKeys scores: Graphic Literacy: 4, Workplace Documents: 4, Applied Mathematics: 4.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must be able to perform the essential elements of the positions with or without reasonable accommodations.
  • Must follow all safety procedures.
  • Must wear company-provided personal protective equipment: safety shoes, glasses with side shields & hard hats at all times in designated areas.
  • Have a strong work ethic, demonstrating dependability, initiative & professional attitude.
  • Must have clear, concise verbal & written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

  • Candidates must upload transcripts as proof of enrollment or degree completion to be considered for this position.

Responsibilities

  • Develop knowledge and skills in Oxy-fuel welding and brazing, Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) (MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) (TIG), and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW).
  • Operate various types of metal shop equipment such as brakes, shears, rolls, positioners, band saws, cranes, with proper training and supervision.
  • Operate various hand tools such as sanders, grinders, welding equipment, metal cutting equipment, with proper training.
  • Serve as a fitter/helper for welders.
  • Perform a variety of routine assignments that do not require the training/experience of a skilled craft worker.
  • Cut or burn metals with close direction and supervision.
  • Use various computer systems (SAP, Outlook, Excel).
  • Maintain housekeeping and cleanup during and after completion of maintenance work.
  • Perform other duties as required to ensure efficient completion of maintenance assignments, such as obtaining materials, parts or tools, operation of a lift truck or company vehicle.
  • Assist skilled craft workers in fabrication, installation, troubleshooting and repair of various equipment such as tanks, vessels, heat exchangers, where specialized training and experience is not required.
  • Share the responsibility for managing team business within defined boundaries and guidelines.
  • Interact with others (team members, supervision, customers, etc.) in an empowering manner to share team leadership and establish and carry out appropriate team processes.
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