The posting
Responsibilities
Howmet Aerospace in Branford, CT is currently hiring highly motivated and energetic candidates to join their team. Howmet Aerospace is a leading provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries worldwide. The Branford facility is focused on producing jet engine components that are essential for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications. With over 50 years of experience in the Branford facility, we are proud to contribute to the development of more fuel-efficient, quieter aerospace engines, and sustainable ground transportation. For more information, please visit www.howmet.com.
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Job Summary
We are currently looking for a candidate to fill the role of 1st Shift (6:30am-3:00pm) or 2nd Shift (2:30pm-11:00pm) Sandblast Operator. This position is responsible for grit blasting parts used, largely, for small Jet engine components. This person will be responsible for the setup and operation of both manual and automatic grit blasting machines. Work requires the operator to perform a wide variety of sandblasting techniques and processes that: A) change from job to job, B) techniques vary, depending upon the type and C) requires operator to work with a wide variety of grit materials without damaging parts. All training necessary to successfully perform this job will be provided in-house by Howmet.
Job Responsibilities
- Review work instructions, stored electronically and written in English, for each job assignment to ensure compliance with product requirements.
- Written instructions will include the type and size of grit to be used, appropriate PSI setting for equipment, proper setup of fixtures into automatic machines, blasting distance from parts to nozzle and any possible areas of restrictions, etc.
- Operator will be required to perform various tasks including inspection of parts to ensure proper masking, load parts into a variety of sandblasting machines, and assure proper/secure placement of parts into fixtures as required (depending upon the process being used).
- Continuously monitor the operation of the nozzle (ensuring no blockage exists) and appropriate flow occurs.
- Adjust machine or grit-flow as needed.
- Perform work activities to obtain acceptable and uniform finishes at various processing stages (initial, in-process and final). Depending upon the process being performed, may move parts in the cabinet back and forth and side-to-side to remove unwanted finish and/or surface irregularities.
- As work is completed, complete all related paperwork i.e. routers, daily log sheets, etc. following standard operating procedures.
- Keep work area clean and organized.
- Adhere to all company safety rules and practices and wear protective equipment as directed.
- Perform other job duties as needed or directed by management.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution.
- Candidate must be able to read and write in English.
- Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
- This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.
Preferred Qualifications
- 1-3 Years of manufacturing experience highly desired.
- Experience running manufacturing equipment, advanced math skills, and leadership qualities preferred.
Skills & Abilities:
Must be able to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence or documentation.
Good math skills with the ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
Good organizational skills in maintaining a variety of records and reports.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will usually work in a shop environment with exposure to loud noise, heat/fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, and moving mechanical parts with a risk of electrical shock.
Salary & Benefits
- Starting salary $22.00/hour
- 2nd Shift Differential is $1.25/hour
- External hires are eligible for a $1,000 sign on bonus after successful completion of 6 months of employment.
- Benefits package includes, Medical, Dental, Vision, Vacation, and more - eligible from day one.
- Excellent benefits/401K vested from day one.
About Us
Compensation and Benefits:
If a pay range is identified for this job, it is based on a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. Actual compensation is subject to variation due to factors such as education, experience, skillset, market/business considerations, and/or location.
Howmet Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package to support the health, financial well-being, and professional growth of our employees. Benefits include:
- Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits coverage, including FSA and HSA account options
- Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans offering employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution
- Paid holidays and vacation time (eligibility, accrual, and usage are discretionary and governed by applicable policies)
- Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs
- Life insurance and disability coverage plans
- Optional coverage plans for auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance
- Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Our Story:
Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email: [email protected]
