Metal Fabricator Trainee - January 2027

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 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 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 the following:

• Complete at least two semesters toward an A.A.S. with Northeast State, Mountain Empire, or Virginia Highlands Community College in Industrial Technology - Welding / Metal Fabrication   OR
• Complete the Combination Welder diploma - Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)   

Candidates must upload transcripts as proof of enrollment or degree completion to be considered for this position. 

*Upload to the "Additional Documents" section of the application.

Posting Dates: 

This position will be posted until at least October 18th, 2026.

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

• A trainee will receive college credit towards their Associate of Applied Science degree at NSCC, MECC or VHCC if they are a current student in the program.
• Completion of this program is one of the requirements for consideration for possible future employment as an Eastman metal fabricator apprentice.
• Upon completion of the Metal Fabricator/Welder 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.

Job Description/Responsibilities: 

• Will develop knowledge and skills in the following techniques:
• Oxy-fuel welding and brazing
• Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW)
• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) (MIG)
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) (TIG)
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
• May operate various types of metal shop equipment with proper training and supervision such as brakes, shears, rolls, positioners, band saws, cranes, etc.
• May operate various hand tools with proper training such as sanders, grinders, welding equipment, metal cutting equipment, etc.
• May 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 cut or burn metals with close direction and supervision.
• May use various computer systems (SAP, Outlook, Excel).
• 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.
• May assist skilled craft workers in fabrication, installation, troubleshooting and repair of various equipment such as tanks, vessels, heat exchangers, etc. where specialized training and experience is not required.
• 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 currently enrolled in Northeast State, Mountain Empire or Virginia Highlands Metal Fabrication program as required. We will also accept applicants who have previously completed the combination welding 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: 

• HS Diploma or GED is required.
• Must have valid driver's license.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• 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 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a highly engaged workforce, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.