Apprentice - CNC Machinist

Kennametal Stellite Inc.; Tennessee; On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on training

Structured program

Certification pathways

Job summary

Kennametal Inc. is seeking candidates for an apprenticeship-level Machinist role focused on CNC operations and a clear progression into 5Axis Penta machining. You will learn in a dedicated training center with structured hands-on programs and experienced mentors to build precision skills.

The program emphasizes reading blueprints, mastering measurement tools, and developing problem-solving abilities in a production environment, with safety and quality at the forefront.

Qualifications

• Basic ability to read and understand mechanical drawings or blueprints.
• Mechanical or technical abilities ( automotive, shop class, robotics, tools ).
• 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

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Dependability

Learning mindset

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Job description

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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 toKennametalto help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more atkennametal.com . Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

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

In this apprenticeship-level role, you will learn to:

• 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

You must have technical aptitude. Candidates should bring:

• 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
• 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-advanced machining technologies
• Supportive team environment with dedicated trainerBuild valuable skills that translate into strong earning potential

Equal Opportunity Employer

Nearest Major Market: Nashville
Job Segment: CNC, Machinist, Materials Science, CAD, Drafting, Manufacturing, Science, Engineering