Machinist Apprentice

Machinist Helper / CNC ApprenticeThis role offers an opportunity to start as a machinist helper and CNC apprentice, supporting a busy machine shop while learning to operate mills, lathes, and CNC equipment. You will perform basic setups, material checks, and machining support tasks, with a clear path to grow into a full operator or machinist role over time.ResponsibilitiesSupport daily operations in the machine shop by assisting with machining and production tasks.Perform material length checks to ensure accuracy before and during machining.Set up parts on mills, lathes, drill presses, and other machine tools under guidance.Assist with basic machine setup and change heads as directed by experienced machinists.Read and interpret blueprints to understand part specifications and machining requirements.Use calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools to verify part dimensions.Help operate manual and CNC equipment, including mills, lathes, and drill presses.Learn and support machining processes on horizontal, vertical, and boring machines.Assist with machining of various materials such as grey iron, steel, and carbon steel.Support operations on multi-axis machines, including 4-axis and 5-axis equipment as needed.Work around CNC controls such as Fanuc and Haas and learn to navigate machine interfaces.Gain exposure to g-code and m-code programming concepts used in CNC machining.Assist with safe operation and basic use of overhead cranes for material handling.Maintain a clean and organized work area in the machine shop.Follow all safety procedures and shop guidelines while working with machinery and tools.Continuously learn new machines and processes to progress toward operator/machinist responsibilities.Essential SkillsAbility to perform material length checks accurately and consistently.Basic experience or familiarity with mills, lathes, and drill presses.Ability to read and interpret blueprints for machining tasks.Competence in using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.Willingness and ability to learn CNC machines and machining processes.Comfort working with machine shop equipment including horizontal and vertical machines.Ability to assist with changing heads and basic machine setups.Attention to detail when working with grey iron, steel, and carbon steel materials.Commitment to following safety procedures in a manufacturing and machine shop environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsFamiliarity with crimpers and related shop tools.Exposure to CNC controls such as Fanuc and Haas is a plus.Basic understanding of g-code and m-code is beneficial but can be learned on the job.Interest in learning multi-axis machining, including 4-axis and 5-axis equipment.Willingness to learn horizontal boring operations and other advanced machining processes.Ability to work with overhead cranes for material handling after training.Strong mechanical aptitude and desire to build a long-term career in machining.Why Work Here?You will join a stable manufacturing environment that invests in your development and offers a clear path for long-term growth.

The role provides structured evaluations and pay increases after 90 days, reflecting your progress and contributions. You will gain hands-on experience with modern machining technologies in a climate-controlled facility, with opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career over time.Work EnvironmentThis position is based in a manufacturing machine shop that is climate controlled, providing a comfortable and consistent work setting. The standard schedule is first shift, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with overtime on Saturdays as needed. You will work around mills, lathes, drill presses, horizontal and vertical machines, boring equipment, and multi-axis CNC machines using controls such as Fanuc and Haas. The environment emphasizes safety, precision, and teamwork, with regular use of measuring tools and shop equipment in a structured production setting.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Hixson, TN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $17.00 - $18.50/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment.

Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Hixson, TN.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 2026.