Eastman is hiring: Metal Fabrication/Welding Trainee - January 2026 in Kingsport

Overview

Metal Fabrication/Welding Trainee – January 2026. This one-year trainee program provides selected students with a hands-on opportunity to develop knowledge and skills as a metal fabricator/welder in an industrial setting at the Kingsport site. Trainees are closely supervised and mentored daily to create a hands-on learning environment. The program offers college credit toward an Associate of Applied Science degree where applicable and is a pathway for consideration for future employment as an Eastman metal fabricator apprentice.

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

Responsibilities

• Develop knowledge and skills in welding and fabrication techniques including:
  • 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)
• Operate various metal shop equipment (with training and supervision) such as brakes, shears, rolls, positioners, band saws, cranes, etc.
• Operate hand tools and welding equipment with training, including sanders, grinders, metal cutting equipment, etc.
• Serve as a fitter/helper for welders and perform routine assignments under supervision.
• Cut or burn metals under direction and supervision.
• Use computer systems (SAP, Outlook, Excel) as required.
• Maintain housekeeping and cleanup during and after maintenance work.
• Assist with materials, parts, or tool acquisition and operation of a lift truck or company vehicle as needed.
• Assist skilled craft workers in fabrication, installation, troubleshooting, and repair of equipment where specialized training is not required.
• Share responsibility for managing team activities within defined boundaries and guidelines.
• Interact with team members, supervision, and customers to support team leadership and processes.
• Trainees are evaluated on safety, teamwork, job knowledge, learning speed, leadership, 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 completed the combination welding program at TCAT.
• Students completing their 2nd semester are eligible to apply.
• If enrolled, trainee must maintain good standing with their educational institution during the program until graduation.
• Candidates must demonstrate basic knowledge and skills by completing the ACT WorkKeys assessment with required scores within 12 months of hire.
• WorkKeys scores required: Graphic Literacy 4, Workplace Documents 4, Applied Mathematics 4. For consideration for a future full-time position, these scores must be achieved after completing the Trainee assignment.
• 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 essential elements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Must follow all safety procedures and wear company-provided PPE: safety shoes, glasses with side shields, and hard hats in designated areas.
• Strong work ethic with dependability, initiative, and professional attitude.
• Clear, concise verbal and written communication skills.

Equal Opportunity

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.

Seniority level

• Internship

Employment type

• Internship

Job function

• Management and Manufacturing

Industries

• Chemical Manufacturing

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