Apprentice

SFS Group USA, Inc., a manufacturer of precision cold formed parts for the automotive, industrial and commercial roofing industries, is located in an 180,000 square foot facility in Medina, Ohio. SFS is a Swiss owned corporation that offers a unique, European-based work culture in a state-of-the-art plant that was constructed in 2000.

SFS has offered an apprenticeship program for the past 20 years that is certified by the Ohio Department of Apprenticeship and Training. SFS currently partners with Stark State Technical College and the University of Akron to provide the required classroom instruction. The apprenticeship track is a 4-5 year, hands-on training program that requires 8000 hours of on-the-job training plus 576 hours of classroom training.

SFS offers apprenticeships in tool and die making, precision machining-cold forging, machine repair and industrial automation, engineering, and office administration. Apprentices are full time employees and are paid for class time plus their on-the-job training. This is definitely an "earn while you learn" opportunity All classes apply towards an Associate Degree if the apprentice wishes to pursue additional education.

As part of the SFS Apprenticeship Agreement, all educational costs are paid by SFS including: tuition, registration fees, books, parking pass, school supplies (notebooks, pens, calculators, etc.). Apprentices are expected to attend class, turn in all homework on time and complete all requirements of the course. Grades lower than a "C" require that the class be retaken at the apprentice's expense.

Other benefits for Apprentices include:

· Competitive starting wage with increases every 3 months

· Group medical, dental, vision after 1 full month

· 401(k) retirement plan at age 18

· SFS Group profit sharing plan

· Paid holidays plus 7 days vacation to start

· Mileage reimbursement to school

· Regular pay for time spent in the classroom

· Free uniforms plus $120/year safety shoe reimbursement

· Education reimbursement for additional courses

An apprenticeship at SFS is an opportunity to acquire an advanced education in a skilled trade plus possible degree with no incurred student debt