Electromechanical 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 the A.A.S. in Electrical Technology – Concentration: Electromechanical Technology with Northeast State or
• Complete at least two semesters toward the A.A.S. in Electrical Engineering Technology – Concentration: Electrical with Northeast State
• Complete at least two semesters toward the A.A.S. in Computer Manufacturing Technology – Electromechanical at Mountain Empire
• Complete at least two semesters toward the A.A.S. in Energy Technology – Electrical Specialization at Mountain Empire 
• Complete at least two semesters toward the A.A.S.in Electrical Technology – Specialization in Mechatronics or Electrical Technology - Electrical Level 3 at Virginia Highlands
• Program completion of the Millwright, Industrial Electricity, Industrial Maintenance Technology or Advanced Manufacturing Technology through 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 of MECC, NSCC, and VHCC to apply and develop their knowledge and skills as a maintenance craft professional in an industrial setting. 

• A trainee will receive college credit towards their Associate of Applied Science degree at any of the 3 listed schools for completion of this program
• Completion of this program is one of the requirements for consideration for possible future employment as an Eastman Maintenance Entry Helper apprentice
• The student will be closely supervised and mentored daily with the goal of providing a hands-on learning environment
• The trainee program duration is 12 months.

 
Job Description/Responsibilities: 

• Aid skilled craft workers in performance of maintenance and repair work assignments
• Assist in removal and installation of piping
• Perform routine tasks such as measuring, cutting, threading, aligning and deburring pipe. May perform similar duties to assist in pressure vessel tube repairs
• 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 professional
• May operate shop equipment with proper training. (i.e., band saw, drill press, grinder, belt sander)
• May cut or burn metals with close direction and supervision
• 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-professionals 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 & 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.
• The trainee must meet all terms of employment with Eastman.
• If currently enrolled as a student, the trainee must maintain good standing with their respective school during the trainee program and/or until graduation.
• Must be a recent graduate (within the last 2 years) or currently enrolled and completed at least two semesters toward an Associates of Applied Science in Electrical, Electromechanical Technology or Mechatronics from MECC, NSCC or VHCC.
• 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.
    • Workplace Documents: 6
    • Graphic Literacy: 5
    • Applied Mathematics: 6 
• To be considered for a future full-time position, following completion of Trainee assignment, the WorkKeys scores listed above must be achieved.

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 always in designated areas.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic, 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.