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Hot Cell Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Build and lead a high-performing radiological operations organization, including hot cell operators, health physicists (HPs), radiological control technicians (RCTs), radiological protection, and ...

The Curbside Market Operator is responsible for ensuring safe, timely and efficient market ... Will be working in hot and cold temperatures, both indoor and outdoor. * Point-of-sale Proficiency ...

Lead operating experience reviews, functional requirements analyses, function allocation, task ... hot-cell interfaces, material handling interfaces, alarm systems, displays, controls, automation ...

Lead operating experience reviews, functional requirements analyses, function allocation, task ... hot-cell interfaces, material handling interfaces, alarm systems, displays, controls, automation ...

Provide feedback and training to wax cell operator(s) on inline inspection findings and overall ... Our vacuum melted superalloys, machining, performance coatings and hot isostatic pressing for high ...

Wax "B" cell operators will have a minimum of 90 days to complete Wax "B" injector training ... Injection Machine * Hot Plates * Hand tools * Engraving Machine * Gauging Fixtures 4. Work ...

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Hot Cell Operator information

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How much do hot cell operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for hot cell operator in the United States is $19.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hot Cell Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hot Cell Operator, you need a background in nuclear technology or engineering, with knowledge of radiation safety protocols and typically a relevant technical certification or associate degree. Familiarity with remote handling tools, manipulators, radiation monitoring equipment, and strict adherence to safety systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work calmly under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient handling of radioactive materials and compliance with regulatory standards in high-risk environments.

What are the typical safety protocols a Hot Cell Operator must follow, and how do they impact daily workflow?

Hot Cell Operators work in environments with high levels of radiation, so strict adherence to safety protocols is crucial. Daily tasks include performing equipment checks, monitoring radiation levels, and following established procedures for handling radioactive materials. Operators wear specialized protective gear, operate tools remotely, and document all activities to ensure compliance. These protocols, while sometimes adding steps to routine tasks, ensure both personal safety and the integrity of sensitive materials, making attention to detail and patience essential qualities for success in this role.

What are Hot Cell Operators?

Hot Cell Operators are specialized technicians who work in controlled environments known as 'hot cells' to handle radioactive materials safely. They use remote-controlled equipment and protective barriers to conduct experiments, process materials, or maintain nuclear components without direct exposure to radiation. Their responsibilities include monitoring equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and documenting procedures. This role is critical in nuclear research, medicine, and energy industries, requiring strict adherence to safety regulations and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Hot Cell Operator vs Radiological Control Technician?

AspectHot Cell OperatorRadiological Control Technician
CredentialsRadiation safety training, possibly NRC or DOE certificationsRadiation safety training, radiation monitoring certifications
Work EnvironmentOperate in hot cells, highly radioactive areasMonitor radiation levels, control contamination in various facilities
Industry UsageNuclear, radiochemistry, nuclear medicineNuclear, radiological safety, environmental monitoring

Both roles require radiation safety training and work in nuclear environments, but Hot Cell Operators focus on operating remote handling equipment in highly radioactive hot cells, while Radiological Control Technicians primarily monitor and control radiation exposure and contamination across facilities.

What states have the most Hot Cell Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hot Cell Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hot Cell Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,866 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
HOURLY PRODUCTION - Metal Cell Operator

HOURLY PRODUCTION - Metal Cell Operator

Howmet Aerospace

La Porte, IN • On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 155 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

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 TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com

The Howmet engines business produces world-class aerospace engine components, including investment castings, fasteners, rings and forgings. Our vacuum melted superalloys, machining, performance coatings and hot isostatic pressing for high performance parts enable the next generation of quieter, cleaner and more fuel-efficient aerospace engines. Able to supply more than 90% of structural and rotating aerospace engine components.

    Basic Qualifications:

    • High School diploma or GED equivalency is required. 
    • WORKKEYS Tests are REQUIRED to be considered for this position. Testing will be conducted at the La Porte WorkOne office. Required Testing: Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, Workplace Documents. Candidates MUST pass with a Level 4 or higher on ALL tests.
    • 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.

    Skills and Abilities:

    • Read parts to the .0001.
    • Understand gauging and templates.
    • Have finishing skills, (stones, burrs, belts, etc.).
    • Work independent as well as with a team.
    • Able to read and follow written and verbal instruction.

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Experience with the GE210 and PW451.
    • Able to demonstrate 2 years of full-time continuous work experience with the same employer OR 6 months of manufacturing experience.

    Physical Demands:

    The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

    Employee is required to execute the following:

    • Occasional bending, reaching, pushing and pulling when retrieving and moving various items.
    • Lifting approximately 30% of the time. Typically, assistance would be provided for weights exceeding 35 pounds.
    • Good manual dexterity Position may require more than eight hours daily and more than five days weekly to complete work assignments.
    • Sitting in chairs (swivel, padded, and adjustable) for 70% of the workday.
    • Squatting / crouching when retrieving stored items from lower shelves and file cabinets, making equipment / product inspections, etc.
    • Standing intermittently.
    • Visual requirements for this position are close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
    • Clean work areas and maintain a clean work environment; perform 5S cleaning activities as required.

    Equipment Used:

    • Hand grinding tools.
    • Auto gages.
    • Metal cleaning equipment.
    • Sonic Equipment.
    • Template Haze blast.
    • Computers.
    • Glass bead.
    • Boroscope.
    • Belt gun.
    • Comco.
    • Hoists.

    ***By completing an online application for a position at Howmet Aerospace LaPorte, you consent to receive text messages at the cell phone number you provide.  This is an automated SMS message.  Reply STOP to opt-out of text notifications.  Standard message and data rates may apply.

    Job Summary:

    Work as a team member to take a rough casting and condition it to the specifications that meet the customer's requirements by performing metal cleaning, finishing, and dimensional and FPI inspection.

    Essential Functions:

    • Must be able to read and interpret Product Criteria (PC) and Activity Instructions (AI).
    • Set up of initial booths(s) for standardization and set up remaining booths to the model booth.
    • Write/edit A.I.'s as required/needed for the department.
    • Perform 5S for the department and own the auditing of 5S.
    • Operate hand grinding tools (both belt and stone). 
    • Operate metal cleaning equipment, water flow and sonic equipment. 
    • Adjust parts by use of presses, heat or other dimensional tooling. 
    • Operate hand sandblast and auto blast units.
    • Prolonged gripping standing or sitting and pushing, pulling and lifting.
    • Moderate length of concentration.
    • Must be able to function as a member of a team and be able to work under general supervision.
    • Must be able to work and function in a fast-paced environment.
    • Basic knowledge of computers.
    • Must be able to maintain expected quality levels.

    Job Responsibilities:

    Job responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

    To become cross trained in order to perform ALL or MOST OF the duties listed below. When necessary, individual may be required to move castings to designated area or perform other work-related duties as assigned:

    Metal Cleaner:

    • Sandblast part by the A.I./P.C.
    • Fill and clean the blasting unit.
    • Inspect castings for possible scrap.
    • Maintain the correct pressure and speed of the blast cabinets by the AI's and PC's.
    • Operate glass bead/table clean unit.

    Metal Finisher:

    • Finish castings to PC using stones, burrs, belts, templates, and gauges.
    • Sandblast to surface finish.
    • Conduct visual operation and primary inspection of casting.
    • Input data in computer for collection.
    • Use boroscope for inspection and fiber light.
    • Perform decap/deburr operation.
    • Perform sonic operation.
    • Map weld areas.
    • Operate Comco machine.
    • Operate water flow.

    Dimensional 

    • Use of calipers, micrometer, height gauges, shim stock, scissors, pin, go no/go, step gages, sonic equipment.
    • Input data for record keeping.
    • Adjusting castings for PC compliance.
    • Working with engineering on deviant castings and reworking to engineers' instructions.
    • Datum "C" drilling-Stators Cell Only.
    • Fixture Gauging /Adjusting.
    • Reroute nonconforming castings.

    *Employees are expected to work overtime as needed.


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    About Howmet Aerospace

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

    Industry

    Aviation

    Company size

    10,000+ Employees

    Headquarters location

    Pittsburgh, PA, US

    Year founded

    1888