Apprentice - CNC Machinist

WIDIA; La Vergne (TN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Structured training program

Hands-on CNC training

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Kennametal Apprenticeship program in Tennessee offers hands-on CNC machining training with a clear path from basic operations to 5Axis Penta machining. You will train in our dedicated center, guided by a professional trainer, while building foundational skills in blueprint reading and measurement.

The role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and ongoing skill development in a production environment, with opportunities for growth and certification through structured program.

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 5Axis Penta machining skills
• Maintain accuracy, organization, and safety in a production environment
• Support continuous improvement and identify opportunities to enhance workflow

Skills

Read blueprints

Mechanical/technical abilities

Problem solving

Measurement tools

Attention to detail

Dependability

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

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. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

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 5Axis 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 5Axis 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 problemsolving 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 handson 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 5Axis 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