Machinist Apprentice

ATC Automation; Cookeville (TN); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Life insurance

Health Savings Account

Flexible Spending Account

Paid Time Off

Job summary

ATC Automation in Cookeville, Tennessee is seeking a Machinist Apprentice to join our team and learn machining from seasoned professionals on real-world custom automation equipment.

You will gain skills in machining, blueprint reading, precision measurement, machine setup, tooling, and manufacturing processes, contributing to parts used in automation systems worldwide.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in machining, manufacturing, or skilled trades.
• Basic math skills for measurements and calculations.
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn precision measurement techniques.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and to work on a team.
• Commitment to safety and able to stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Learn to safely operate manual and machine tools under guidance of experienced machinists.
• Assist with setting up and operating mills, lathes, saws, grinders, and other shop equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions.
• Select appropriate tools, materials, speeds, feeds, and machining methods.
• Perform cutting, drilling, milling, turning, grinding, and other machining operations.

Skills

Strong mechanical aptitude

Basic math skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety orientation

Willingness to learn

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Are you mechanically inclined, enjoy working with your hands, and want to learn a skilled trade that can provide a long-term career?

ATC Automation is looking for a Machinist Apprentice to join our growing team in Cookeville, Tennessee. This is an excellent opportunity to learn machining from experienced professionals while working on real-world custom automation equipment.

As you progress through the apprenticeship, you'll develop skills in machining, blueprint reading, precision measurement, machine setup, tooling, materials, and manufacturing processes.

You'll have the opportunity to see the parts you make become part of the custom automation systems ATC builds for customers around the world.

Meet ATC Automation

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been redefining what's possible in custom automation. From concept to commissioning, we partner with leading brands across the globe to design and deliver custom machinery that drives efficiency, precision, and long-term performance. Our automation expertise spans critical industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Science, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

What We Offer

• Full-time employment.
• Hands-on, on-the-job training.
• Training and mentorship from experienced machinists.
• Opportunities to develop a skilled trade.
• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• 401(k).
• Life insurance.
• Health Savings Account.
• Flexible Spending Account.
• Paid Time Off.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• Opportunity to work on custom automation equipment.
• Collaborative manufacturing and engineering environment.

Your training will include:

• 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 how 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 your team.
• Continue developing machining skills through hands‑on training, coaching, and progressively more advanced assignments.

What You'll Learn

• Machining - Manual milling, turning, drilling, grinding, cutting, and other machining processes.
• Blueprint Reading - How to understand engineering drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing requirements.
• Precision Measurement - How to accurately inspect components using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring equipment.
• Machine Setup & Tooling - How to select tooling, secure workpieces, set up machines, and prepare for machining operations.
• Manufacturing - How raw materials become precision components used in custom automation equipment.
• Problem Solving - How experienced machinists evaluate machining challenges and determine the best way to produce a quality part.
• Automation Equipment - How machined components fit into larger automated systems built for industries around the world.

Required Qualifications

• 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.

Experience That Will Help You Stand Out

• 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.
• Manual or CNC machines.
• Blueprint reading.
• Calipers, micrometers, or other measuring tools.
• Previous manufacturing or shop experience.

You might be a great fit for this position if you:

• Like working with your hands.
• Enjoy figuring out how things work.
• Take pride in making something correctly.
• Are comfortable learning new tools and equipment.
• Pay attention to details.
• Like working with machines.
• Want to develop a skilled trade.
• Show up, work hard, and take responsibility for your work.
• Are willing to listen, learn, and accept coaching.
• Want a career-not just a job.

Physical Demands and Conditions

• Stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead, and bend to floor.
• Ability to climb ladders and work at heights of up to 35 feet.
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors in various conditions.
• Exposure to high noise levels, moving/rotating equipment, fumes, dust, oil and other fluids.
• Exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally.
• Exert 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently.
• Exert up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• VISUAL ACUITY: Near acuity with or without accommodation.
• HEARING Ability: Ability to monitor machine sounds to identify and diagnose.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or cancelled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.