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Entry Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CNC Operator I - Entry-US

New Market, VA

$20 - $27.25/hr

CNC Operator - Entry New Market, VA 2nd shift: 2:45pm - 11:15pm or 3rd shift: 10:45pm - 7:15am ... Apprenticeship program of completion preferred. • Manufacturing experience of 1 - 3 years ...

Responsible for developing a variety of training programs outside of the apprentice track. Directly ... Research field operations of other industries where skilled personnel could find an entry point ...

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Entry Apprentice information

What is an entry apprentice?

Entry Apprentices are individuals who are just beginning their training in a specific trade or profession. They typically work under the guidance of experienced professionals to learn practical skills and gain hands-on experience. Entry Apprenticeships are common in fields such as construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades, and they often combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. This role is designed to help newcomers build a foundation of knowledge and prepare for more advanced positions in their chosen field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of the trade, problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certification are commonly required. Strong work ethic, effective communication, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These qualities are crucial for safely acquiring hands-on experience, supporting skilled professionals, and progressing in your chosen trade.

What are some common challenges faced by entry apprentices during their training period, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to a structured work environment, managing time between hands-on tasks and classroom learning, and mastering new technical skills quickly. It's common to feel overwhelmed initially, but seeking guidance from experienced mentors and actively participating in training sessions can help. Building good communication with your supervisor and peers also makes it easier to ask questions and clarify expectations, setting a strong foundation for future advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Apprentice vs Entry Technician?

AspectEntry ApprenticeEntry Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, workshops, or on-the-jobFieldwork, maintenance facilities, or client sites
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, or technical industriesIndustrial, electrical, or mechanical sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

In summary, an Entry Apprentice is typically in a training phase, focusing on learning skills under supervision, while an Entry Technician is usually a more experienced role performing technical tasks independently. Both roles are essential in technical industries, with apprenticeships serving as a pathway to becoming a fully qualified technician.

Can I become an entry apprentice with no experience?

Entry apprenticeships are designed for individuals with little or no prior experience, making them accessible to beginners. These programs typically provide on-the-job training and may require a high school diploma or equivalent; prior skills or certifications are usually not necessary to start.

What are the most commonly searched types of Entry jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Entry jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Entry Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

CNC Operator I - Entry-US

Kennametal, Inc.

New Market, VA

$20 - $27.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Kennametal rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.


CNC Operator - Entry

New Market, VA

2nd shift: 2:45pm - 11:15pm or 3rd shift: 10:45pm - 7:15am

Summary

Operating an automated machine such as a CNC or other machine via either a single step or process that does not include a multi-step or multi- production process.  Sets up complex, customized production equipment to manufacture company products.

Duties

•  Manufactures sufficient quantities of quality products at or below budgeted production costs in order to meet marketplace demand.
•  Sets up equipment operation feed, speed, and temperature; follows established procedures for operating various conventional and/or CNC (computerized numerical control) manufacturing equipment for tasks such as cutting, punching, forming, drilling, tapping, turning, milling and stamping to fabricate, form or shape manufactured parts, tools or parts assemblies from raw materials.
•  Selects and measures raw materials and parts to specifications to prepare for production processing. •  Resolves issues related to the organization's production, machinery, processing, and/or packaging operations.• May include basic level programming•  Set up and operate, in an efficient timely manner, machine tools, such as mill-turns, mills, lathes, or grinders.• Align and secure holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, or materials onto machines.  • Work from and read blueprints as well as setting and checking work to various quality control gages.• Move all materials, either physically or mechanically, necessary to complete assignments• Perform inspection of machined products by selecting and setting up precision gaging to ensure external and internal quality specifications and requirements•  Set-up and perform a series of machining operations on all CNC machines.• Select proper cutters, determine adjusts feeds and speeds as needed, and replace cutters when dull.
• May Operate two or more CNC machines simultaneously
• Responsibilities are within the Manufacturing/Operations Function as a generalist or in a combination of Disciplines.
● Performs specialized technical tasks required to support operations (e.g., IT development, research support, skilled trade)

Experience

•  High School Degree
•  1-3 years experience
•  Machine operation experience • Requires vocational training or the equivalent experience and may require external certification but typically does not require a university degree• Technical school certification or Apprenticeship program of completion preferred.• Manufacturing experience of 1 - 3 years automated/CNC work experience required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Basic troubleshooting and decision-making skills.
• Ability to modify G code programs.
• Ability to handle basic or standard CNC complexity. •  Has working knowledge and skills to perform a defined set of analytical/scientific methods or operational processes.• Applies experience and skills to complete assigned work within own area of expertise.•  Works within standard operating procedures and/or scientific methods.•  Receive verbal and written information.• Complete all necessary documentation, electronic data entries, and communications accurately and timely.• Understand written instructions and be willing and able to communicate those instructions to others.• Read process instructions and drawings and recognize/attend to details.• Adhere to and follow all company safety policies and procedures to assure commitment to a 100% safe work environment.• Support the Lean Enterprise initiatives and continuously strive to improve customer satisfaction through improved quality, reduction in waste, and improved productivity.
• Intermediate knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) methods of dimensioning, as well as proper use and care of precision measurement tools.
 • Knowledge of shop math, including geometry and conversions.
• Manufacturing and product knowledge.
• Proven troubleshooting, decision-making skills, and the ability to work in a team-based environment.
• Interpersonal skills with good communication working in a team environment.  

Complexity

 • Not much variability to day to day operation tasks
•  Works with a moderate degree of supervision

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


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