Eastman Chemical Company is hiring: Metal Fabrication/Welding Trainee - January

Overview

Metal Fabrication/Welding Trainee - January 2026

Job Requisition ID: 55149

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. The company focuses on safety and sustainability while delivering innovative products and solutions to end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman employs approximately 14,000 people in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit eastman.com.

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

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 Community College Metal Fabrication program, or 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 the 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 a 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.

Additional Information

Nearest Major Market: Asheville

Nearest Secondary Market: Knoxville