Apprentice - CNC Machinist

Kennametal; La Vergne (TN); On-site; USD 20,664,000 - 30,307,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands‑on training

Career growth opportunities

Dedicated trainer

Job summary

Kennametal in La Vergne, Tennessee, invites entry‑level candidates to become Apprentice CNC Machinists through hands‑on training and a clear advancement path.

You will learn CNC operations, read blueprints, and progress toward 5‑Axis Penta machining in our dedicated training center with a seasoned trainer.

This role emphasizes problem solving, precision, safety, and teamwork, with structured development and opportunities to grow into advanced machining skills within Kennametal.

Qualifications

• Basic ability to read and understand mechanical drawings or blueprints.
• Mechanical or technical abilities (automotive, shop class, robotics, tools, etc.).
• Strong problem‑solving skills and logical thinking.
• Comfort with measurement tools or willingness to learn them quickly.
• Attention to detail, accuracy, quality and safety.
• Dependability and willingness to learn in a hands‑on environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines safely and accurately while producing quality products.
• Read and interpret engineering blueprints, mechanical drawings, and basic GD&T.
• Apply problem‑solving skills to troubleshoot machine or measurement issues.
• Use precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Assist with machine setup, tool changes, and material preparation.
• Work in our training center with a dedicated trainer and structured training program.
• Work alongside experienced machinists to develop 5‑Axis Penta machining skills.
• Maintain accuracy, organization, and safety in a production environment.
• Support continuous improvement and identify opportunities to enhance workflow.

Skills

Read blueprints/ drawings

Mechanical/technical ability

Problem solving

Measurement tools

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

Job description

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear‑resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com.

Apprentice CNC Machinist

Start your career in precision manufacturing with hands‑on training and a clear advancement path. We’re looking for technically minded individuals who enjoy solving problems, working with tools, and understanding how things are built. If you have basic mechanical or technical ability and can read blueprints or technical drawings, we’ll train you to become a highly skilled machinist.

About the Role

This role is ideal for someone who has foundational technical skills and wants to grow into advanced CNC machining. You’ll begin by learning CNC operations and gradually progress into 5‑Axis Penta machining through structured, hands‑on training in our dedicated training center.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines safely and accurately while producing quality products
• Read and interpret engineering blueprints, mechanical drawings, and basic GD&T
• Apply problem‑solving skills to troubleshoot machine or measurement issues
• Use precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
• Assist with machine setup, tool changes, and material preparation
• Work in our training center with a dedicated trainer and structured training program
• Work alongside experienced machinists to develop 5‑Axis Penta machining skills
• Maintain accuracy, organization, and safety in a production environment
• Support continuous improvement and identify opportunities to enhance workflow

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Basic ability to read and understand mechanical drawings or blueprints
• Mechanical or technical abilities (automotive, shop class, robotics, tools, etc.)
• Strong problem‑solving skills and logical thinking
• Comfort with measurement tools or willingness to learn them quickly
• Attention to detail, accuracy, quality and safety
• Dependability and willingness to learn in a hands‑on environment

Preferred (Not Required)

• Previous exposure to machining, fabrication, or manufacturing
• Experience reading more advanced drawings or tolerances
• Familiarity with mechanical systems, CAD, or technical hobbies
• Shop environment, trade school, or technical training background

Training & Career Growth

• We offer a structured development path that includes:
• Hands‑on training in CNC operations
• Step‑by‑step progression into 5‑Axis Penta machining
• Opportunities to learn advanced setups, tooling strategies, and problem‑solving techniques
• Cross‑training on various machining platforms
• Professional development and certification pathways

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Technical role with hands‑on learning and advancement
• High‑demand career path with long‑term growth
• Training provided on state‑of‑the‑art machining technologies
• Supportive team environment with dedicated trainerBuild valuable skills that translate into strong earning potential

Equal Opportunity Employer