Assembly Mechanic Apprentice

Are you ready to build a hands-on career in mechanical assembly and earn while you learn?

Launch your career with Busch Vacuum Solutions through our Registered Assembly Mechanic Apprenticeship Program based in Virginia Beach, VA.

This full-time, paid apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction—all covered by Busch—as you work toward becoming a skilled Assembly Mechanic. Aligned with the Virginia Registered Apprenticeship Program and the U.S. Department of Labor, the program is designed to last approximately 2 to 2.5 years.

As a Busch apprentice, you’ll work side-by-side with experienced technicians, learning how to assemble and test complex vacuum pumping systems from the ground up. You’ll gain mechanical and light electrical skills, develop proficiency in technical drawings and blueprint reading, and contribute to high-quality manufacturing processes—while getting paid every step of the way.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist with the mechanical and minor electrical assembly of vacuum pumping systems according to engineering drawings and quality standards
• Drill, tap, thread, and fit piping and components for system integration
• Operate industrial forklifts safely and complete daily inspection logs
• Learn to perform basic welding tasks or demonstrate willingness to learn welding techniques
• Participate in functional testing to verify vacuum system performance
• Accurately document production output, timekeeping, and inventory usage
• Support Lean manufacturing initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste
• Attend and participate in required off-site classroom instruction as part of your workweek and maintain grades above a ‘C’ average

What You’ll Gain:

• Paid, full-time hands-on experience with a starting wage of $20/hour
• All classroom instruction fully funded by Busch
• Mentorship from skilled professionals in a real-world manufacturing setting
• Industry-recognized certifications through a state and federally registered program

• Long-term career potential—Busch values promoting from within

Eligibility Requirements:

Skills & Abilities:

• Education: High School Diploma or GED required
• Experience:
• Previous experience in mechanical assembly or related industrial environment preferred
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and use measurement tools preferred
• Must place in entry-level college Math and English and enroll in the appropriate classes based on placement scores
• Successful completion of the online Mechanical Aptitude Test (a 20-minute test assessing mechanical skills)
• Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints and specifications is preferred
• Computer Skills: Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office preferred

• Other Requirements: Valid driver’s license; willingness to travel domestically for training

Personal Qualities:

• Strong eagerness to learn, reliability, and a solid work ethic
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Must be able to pass a 10-panel drug screen and a 7-year criminal background check
• Felonies may disqualify candidates, while misdemeanors will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
• Ability to wear and use required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent standing, walking, reaching, bending, squatting, and lifting up to 50 lbs
• Occasional climbing, kneeling, crawling, and working above shoulder height
• Ability to hear alarms, see clearly (vision near/far/color/depth), and respond to tactile signals

• Must be able to wear PPE including safety glasses (non-metallic frames), EH-rated safety footwear, hand protection, and hearing protection

Benefits & Opportunities

As a Busch Vacuum Solutions employee, you’ll have access to a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, well-being, and career growth. For qualifying full-time employees, we offer:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and volunteer time off to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Company-paid accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment to support your continued education
• Profit sharing - because we believe in sharing our success with you

At Busch, we’re committed to supporting your professional and personal growth in a workplace that values your contributions!

Work Environment

Work takes place in a moderately controlled office and manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, fumes, airborne particles, and moving mechanical parts. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Why Work for Busch Vacuum Solutions?

Busch values diversity and welcomes all talents, regardless of education, age, gender, or nationality. We offer meaningful growth opportunities, hands-on learning, and professional development in a supportive environment. Our apprenticeships serve as a steppingstone to a successful, long-term career in engineering, manufacturing, and technology.

Apply today and jump-start your future with Busch Vacuum Solutions!