Machinist Apprentice

Barry-Wehmiller Companies Inc.; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking mechanically inclined individuals for a Machinist Apprenticeship program. This structured four-year program combines paid, hands-on training with classroom instruction at Northcentral Technical College, leading to Journeyman certification. Apprentices will develop essential machining skills, operate advanced CNC equipment, and gain valuable experience in a state-of-the-art machine shop. The role offers a unique opportunity to build a long-term career while working part-time and receiving company-paid travel time and instruction. Join this innovative firm and contribute to transforming paper into products that serve consumers worldwide.

Benefits

Company-paid travel time

First Aid & CPR certification

Paid related instruction

Hands-on training

Real-world experience

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; strong math skills and mechanical aptitude preferred.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and eager to learn in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Learn and perform precision measurement and inspection using various tools.
• Operate manual and CNC machines, including layout and cutting operations.
• Attend paid related instruction while gaining hands-on experience.

Skills

Mechanical Aptitude

Strong Math Skills

Detail-Oriented

Organized

Teamwork

Independent Work

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

CNC Machines

Calipers

Micrometers

Mazak Equipment

Job description

About Us:

BW Papersystems, part of the Barry-Wehmiller Group, builds capital equipment that transforms paper into products for consumers - every day, around the world. We offer innovative technologies, service and parts, and years of global experience in corrugating, finishing; slitting and packaging; stationery; bookbinding and security documents. Customers rely on our machines to produce and convert items such as corrugated boxes, folding cartons, passports, notebooks, copy paper, board, and coated and other specialty papers. For more information, visit bwpapersystems.com. Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.

Job Description:

BW Papersystems Machinist Apprenticeship

Are you mechanically inclined and interested in building a long-term career as a skilled machinist? The Machinist Apprenticeship Program at BW Papersystems offers a structured path to becoming a certified machinist through paid, hands-on training, classroom instruction, and real-world experience.

This four-year, time-based apprenticeship is offered in partnership with Northcentral Technical College (NTC). Apprentices will work part-time while attending school, developing core machining skills such as milling, turning, CNC operation, and precision measurement. Training includes hands-on experience with both manual and CNC machines (including Mazak equipment) in our state-of-the-art machine shop, which operates across three shifts.

Key Responsibilities

• Learn and perform precision measurement and inspection using calipers, micrometers, and other tools
• Operate manual and CNC machines, including Mazak mill and lathe equipment
• Read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings
• Assist in layout, drilling, turning, grinding, and cutting operations
• Participate in tool fabrication and machine setup
• Gain hands-on experience in materials testing, heat treating, and basic welding
• Follow safety standards and company best practices
• Attend 4 hours per week of paid related instruction at NTC
• Travel between Wausau and Phillips locations using a company vehicle (paid travel time)

Program Highlights

• 8-year total program (4 years of apprenticeship + 4-year post-program agreement)
• 7,888 total hours (including 432 hours of paid instruction)
• 2,080-hour probationary period
• Apprentices will take four years to complete their Journeyman certification while working part-time
• Upon completion of their Journeyman, candidates must work full-time for 4 years at BW Papersystems in Phillips, WI
• Must maintain a B or above in all coursework (falling below places the apprentice on probation; two consecutive semesters may result in program termination)
• Company-paid travel time and class attendance
• First Aid & CPR certification and “Transition to Trainer” course included

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Strong math skills and mechanical aptitude
• Detail-oriented, organized, and eager to learn
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Prior exposure to shop classes or mechanical tools
• Experience in reading blueprints or technical drawings
• Familiarity with CNC programming or CAD/CAM software is a plus

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions. Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V. This organization uses E-Verify. Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.

Company:

BW Papersystems