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Internship Welding Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineering Internships and/or Co-ops, particularly in adjacent industries (see below ... Machining and fabrication experience (milling, turning, welding, laser-cutting, forming, etc.

Internship Welding information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do internship welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship welding in Tennessee is $15.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do welding interns get paid?

Welding interns are often paid, especially if the internship is part of a formal program or apprenticeship that provides compensation for hands-on training with welding tools and safety equipment. However, some internships, particularly unpaid ones for training purposes, may not offer payment, so it varies by employer and program structure.

What is an internship welding?

Internship welding positions are temporary training opportunities for students or entry-level individuals to gain hands-on experience in welding. These internships allow participants to learn welding techniques, safety procedures, and industry standards under the supervision of experienced welders. Interns may work in manufacturing, construction, or repair settings, assisting with real projects while building valuable skills. These positions are a great way to explore a welding career, make industry connections, and enhance a resume.

What is the difference between Internship Welding vs Welding Technician?

AspectInternship WeldingWelding Technician
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required; may be pursuing a welding certificationRequires welding certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Welder)
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised, entry-levelIndustrial, construction, manufacturing environments
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning welding techniques, assisting senior weldersPerforming welding tasks, inspecting welds, maintaining equipment
Industry UsageEducational and training programs, entry-level positionsSkilled welding work in various industries

Internship Welding is an entry-level training position focused on learning and gaining experience, often without requiring certifications. Welding Technicians are skilled workers with certifications who perform welding tasks professionally in industrial settings. The internship serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a certified Welding Technician.

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

To thrive as a Welding Intern, you need a foundational understanding of welding techniques, safety procedures, and basic metalworking, usually gained through vocational training or technical coursework. Familiarity with welding tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding machines, as well as safety certifications like OSHA 10, is typically required. Attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and strong teamwork skills set outstanding interns apart. These skills and qualities are essential for producing quality welds, maintaining a safe work environment, and contributing effectively to welding projects.

How to get a welding internship?

To secure a welding internship, applicants should have basic welding skills, often gained through vocational training or certification programs, and demonstrate familiarity with tools like MIG or TIG welders. Applying to companies, trade schools, or apprenticeship programs that offer hands-on experience is essential, along with submitting a resume highlighting relevant skills and safety knowledge.

What types of projects and hands-on experiences can I expect during a welding internship?

As a welding intern, you'll typically participate in a variety of hands-on projects ranging from basic fabrication tasks to assisting with more advanced welding assignments under the supervision of experienced professionals. You may work on assembling metal structures, learning different welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, or stick welding), and performing quality inspections. Interns often collaborate closely with welders, engineers, and safety coordinators, gaining exposure to real-world shop environments and safety protocols. This practical experience is invaluable for building technical skills and understanding the workflow in a professional welding setting.

How do I get into internship welding with no experience?

To start an internship in welding with no experience, focus on completing a basic welding training program or certification, such as a welding safety or introductory course. Gaining foundational skills in welding techniques and demonstrating a willingness to learn can help you secure entry-level opportunities, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Building a strong work ethic and understanding safety protocols are also important for internship eligibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Internship Welding jobs in Tennessee?

For Internship Welding jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Internship Welding jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Internship Welding jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Internship Welding jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Internship Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Internship Welding job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,669 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Jr. Associate Applications Engineer

ATC Automation

Cookeville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

ATC Automation is seeking a motivated Jr. Associate Applications Engineer to join our growing onsite engineering team in Cookeville, Tennessee. This early-career position supports the development of conceptual machine designs, cost estimates, and technical proposals for custom automation systems that meet customer manufacturing requirements.
Working alongside experienced Applications Engineers, Sales, Engineering, and Leadership, you will review customer drawings, production requirements, and technical specifications to help develop innovative automation solutions. This role offers an excellent opportunity to build a career in custom automation by gaining hands-on experience with machine concepts, proposal development, cost estimating, and customer interaction.
The ideal candidate has 2-3 years of engineering experience in automation, machine design, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical field. You should have a strong mechanical aptitude, enjoy solving technical challenges, and be eager to learn the custom machine-building process while developing your engineering and proposal skills.
About ATC Automation
Since 1977, ATC Automation has been a trusted leader in designing and building custom automation solutions. From concept to commissioning, we partner with some of the world's top brands to deliver precision-engineered machinery that improves efficiency, reliability, and performance. Our expertise spans industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Sciences, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive compensation package.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401(k).
  • Opportunities for professional development, technical training, and career advancement.
  • Collaborative engineering environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
  • The opportunity to work on unique, custom-designed automation systems across a variety of industries.

Key Responsibilities
  • Assist in developing conceptual machine layouts and tooling designs for custom automation and manufacturing systems.
  • Review customer drawings, specifications, production goals, cycle time requirements, and technical data with guidance from senior team members.
  • Collaborate with customers, sales, engineering, and leadership to help develop automation solutions that meet technical and commercial objectives.
  • Support the development of preliminary and final cost estimates using Microsoft Excel and company estimating tools.
  • Assist with estimating operator task times and manufacturing cycle times for proposed assembly processes.
  • Prepare technical proposals, quotations, and supporting documentation using Microsoft Word, SolidWorks, and related software.
  • Contribute to the conceptual design of assembly machines, automation equipment, and testing systems under the direction of senior engineers.
  • Research new technologies, components, and manufacturing processes that support proposed automation solutions.
  • Create 3D renderings, concept drawings, and presentation materials to support customer proposals and sales activities.
  • Assist with technical presentations by preparing concepts, visuals, and supporting documentation for customer meetings.
  • Manage assigned projects and quotation activities while meeting customer deadlines and business objectives.
  • Travel periodically to customer facilities to support meetings, project reviews, and technical discussions.
  • Maintain a valid driver's license and the ability to travel as required.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
  • 2-3 years of experience in automation, machine design, manufacturing engineering, or a related technical environment.
  • Exposure to custom automation quoting, cost estimating, or proposal development is preferred but not required.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • Experience using SolidWorks for mechanical design and 3D modeling.
  • Foundational understanding of mechanical engineering principles, machine design, GD&T, and interpretation of technical drawings.
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical systems used in automated equipment.
  • General familiarity with industrial electrical controls and pneumatic systems.
  • Familiarity with machining and fabrication processes, including milling, turning, boring, welding, and assembly, is beneficial.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment while continuously developing technical skills.

Preferred Skills
  • Internship or professional experience in custom automation, special machinery, manufacturing, or industrial equipment.
  • Interest in developing expertise in conceptual machine design, cost estimating, and proposal development.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a willingness to learn from experienced engineers.
  • Ability to interpret customer requirements and contribute to practical engineering solutions.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Self-motivated with a desire to grow within a custom automation engineering environment.

Interpersonal Skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, manufacturing, sales, and customers.
  • Willingness to learn through coaching and mentorship from senior engineers.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
  • Positive attitude, curiosity, and a customer-focused approach to problem solving.

Success Metrics
  • Accuracy and completeness of assigned quotation and proposal tasks.
  • Timely completion of estimates and customer deliverables.
  • Growth in conceptual machine design and automation knowledge.
  • Quality of technical documentation and proposal materials.
  • Ability to contribute effectively to customer proposals and engineering discussions.
  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams and responsiveness to project deadlines.
  • Continuous development of engineering and estimating skills.

Disclaimer:
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.
ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.
ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.