Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Berlin, CT (NOW HIRING)

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 seeking a candidate to join our team as a Demask and Blast Operator on our 2nd Shift. This position is responsible for removing masking materials, performing water wash and internal flushing, and operating grit blasting equipment to clean and prepare components for masking. Work includes handling a variety of cleaning techniques, ensuring proper surface preparation, and organizing parts for subsequent processing. Cross-training opportunities may include supporting masking and blasting operations. All training necessary to successfully perform this job will be provided.

Job Responsibilities

      •  Perform demask operations using fixtures, blocks, or hand tools to remove masking, foils from parts per work instructions.

      •  Carry out internal cleaning by flushing and water washing to remove masking, debris, and residue.

      •  Utilize brushes, sticks, and other approved tools to clean internal and external surfaces and crevices.

      • Operate grit blasting equipment to clean parts, masking cups producing uniform finishes.

      • Adjust blasting machines and grit flow as required to achieve correct finish and meet specifications per work instructions.

      • Inspect parts or tools before and after processing to ensure proper cleaning results.

      • Separate, organize, and stage demasked cups and bottoms for masking or next operation.

      • Complete all required documentation including routers, log sheets, and internal records in an accurate and timely manner.

      • Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with 6S and company safety standards.

      • Adhere to all safety procedures and wear protective equipment as required.

      • Support cross-training efforts by assisting in related operations such as wash and blast.

      • Perform other duties as assigned by management.

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

• Ability to read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions in English.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to adjust equipment settings (e.g., PSI, grit flow, nozzles).
• Attention to detail with the ability to inspect and verify part conditions.
• Physical ability to handle repetitive motions, lifting, and moving parts within a production environment.
• Good organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate paperwork (routers, daily logs, etc.).
• Willingness to cross-train and work in multiple departments as needed  
• Commitment to following company safety rules, practices, and protective equipment to use proper and safe containerization methods for all hazardous waste.

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; 2nd Shift Differential of $2.00/hour (when working 2nd shift hours)
• 2nd Shift (2:30pm - 11:00pm)
• External hires are eligible for a $1,000 sign on bonus.
• Benefit package includes, Medical, Dental, Vision, Vacation and more - eligible from day one.
• Excellent benefits/401K vested from day one.