Machine Tool Trainee

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 14,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2024 revenue of approximately $9.4 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

To be eligible, you MUST be a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2 years) of one of the following:

Complete at least two semesters toward an A.A.S. with Northeast State Community College in Industrial Technology - Machine Tool or

Complete the Precision Machining certificate program with Virginia Highlands Community College (Machinist Trainee Only) or

Complete the Machinist I at Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT).

This program provides a one-year opportunity for selected students to develop their knowledge and skills as a Machinist in an industrial setting.

• A trainee will receive college credit towards their Associate of Applied Science degree at NSCC, VHCC or TCAT for completion of this program
• Completion of this program is one of the requirements for consideration for possible future employment as an Eastman Machinist apprentice
• Upon completion of the Machinist trainee assignment the student will have been exposed to a variety of tools used to fabricate and repair various parts used in the manufacturing process at the Kingsport site
• The student will be closely supervised and mentored on a daily basis with the goal of providing a hands-on learning environment
• The trainee program duration is 12 months. 

Posting Dates:

This position will be posted until at least October 19, 2025.

Job Description/Responsibilities:

• Provide assistance to skilled craft workers in performance of maintenance and repair work assignments
• Assist in the disassembly/assembly of equipment for repair, cleaning or maintenance
• Serve as a fitter/helper for welders
• May perform a variety of routine assignments that do not require the training/experience of a skilled craft worker
• May operate shop equipment with proper training. (i.e., band saw, drill press, grinder, belt sander, lathe, milling machines)
• May cut or burn metals with close direction and supervision
• Perform basic shop math
• Read blueprints and shop sketches
• Utilize measuring tools such as micrometers, dial calipers and dial indicators
• Maintain housekeeping and cleanup during and after completion of maintenance work
• May perform other duties as required to ensure efficient completion of maintenance assignments, such as obtaining materials, parts or tools, operation of a lift truck or company vehicle, etc.
• Assist skilled craft workers in installation, troubleshooting and repair of electrical equipment and instrumentation where specialized training and experience is not required
• May assist in pulling electrical cable or other wiring, and other assignments of routine nature
• May perform routine instrument calibrations, including checking the instrument calibration and making routine calibrations such as zeroing the instrument or minor span adjustments
• Share the responsibility for managing team business within defined boundaries and guidelines
• Interact with others (team members, supervision, customers, etc.) in an empowering manner to share team leadership and establish and carry out appropriate team processes
• Trainees are evaluated on: Safety, teamwork, job knowledge, learning speed, leadership qualities, output, productivity and dependability

Education/Experience:

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Must be a recent graduate (within the last 2 years) or be currently enrolled and completed at least two semesters toward an Associates of Applied Science in Machine Tool Technology from NSCC, VHCC or have completed the Machinist I program at TCAT.
• Students completing their 2nd semester are eligible to apply.
• If currently enrolled as a student, the trainee must maintain good standing with their educational institution during the trainee program and/or until graduation.
• Candidates must be able to demonstrate basic knowledge and skills by completing the ACT Workkeys assessment testing and attain required scores within 12 months of hire date.
• Must achieve required WorkKeys scores as listed below.
• Graphic Literacy - 4
• Workplace Documents - 4
• Applied Mathematics - 4
• To be considered for a future full-time position, following completion of Trainee assignment, the WorkKeys scores listed above must be achieved.
• Candidates must upload transcripts as proof of enrollment or degree (in the "Additional Documents" section of the application).

Other Qualifications/Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have valid driver's license.
• Must be able to perform the essential elements of the positions with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Must follow all safety procedures.
• Must wear company-provided personal protective equipment: safety shoes, glasses with side shields & hard hats at all times in designated areas.
• Have a strong work ethic, demonstrating dependability, initiative & professional attitude.
• Must have clear, concise verbal & written communication skills.

Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.

Eastman is committed to creating a highly engaged workforce, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.