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Metal Cell Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bend Cell Operator I

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $19.25/hr

We are seeking a Bend Cell Operator to join our production team. This position is responsible for ... Experience in manufacturing or metalworking environment * Familiarity with ERP systems and ...

Front Cell Operator

Norwell, MA · On-site

$23.18/hr

JOB TITLE: Front Cell Operator SHIFT: 1st (Mon-Thu, 5AM to 3PM) LOCATION: Norwell, MA COMPANY ... Preference given to 2-3 years working with metal forming processes. Experience working in a ...

Rotor Cell Operator

Erie, PA

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

... mixing, metal processing, part marking, and product assembly. Performs mechanical and visual ... Operator certification required. Must be able to work 2nd or 3rd shift. Responsibilities Performs ...

Operate metal cleaning equipment, water flow and sonic equipment. * Adjust parts by use of presses ... Assists other operators with processing activities such as components weight counting, glass ...

Bender Fabricator

Denton, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Jamb Cell Operator Shift: 1st shift, M-F 7:00 am - 3:30 pm Pay: DOE Location: Onsite, Anchor Fabrication, Denton, TX Anchor Fabrication, LLC, a precision metal fabrication company is seeking a 1st ...

Bender Fabricator

Denton, TX

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Jamb Cell Operator Shift: 1st shift, M-F 7:00 am - 3:30 pm Pay: DOE Location: Onsite, Anchor Fabrication, Denton, TX Anchor Fabrication, LLC, a precision metal fabrication company is seeking a 1st ...

Engine Dyno Test Cell Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

The Engine Dyno Test Cell Operator will be expected to perform the following duties: * Perform ... Possess skills for MIG & TIG welding on metals including stainless steel, mild steel, cast iron ...

Engine Dyno Test Cell Operator

Auburn Hills, MI

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

The Engine Dyno Test Cell Operator will be expected to perform the following duties: * Perform ... Possess skills for MIG & TIG welding on metals including stainless steel, mild steel, cast iron ...

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Metal Cell Operator information

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How much do metal cell operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal 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 is a metal cell operator?

Metal cell operators are skilled workers who monitor and control equipment used in the production of metals, such as aluminum or zinc, in electrolytic cells or furnaces. They ensure that the machinery runs safely and efficiently, adjust controls to regulate temperature and chemical flow, and perform routine maintenance. Metal cell operators also inspect the quality of the produced metal, record operational data, and follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents or equipment malfunctions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metal cell operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metal Cell Operator, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, machinery operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with industrial control systems, CNC machines, and measurement tools like micrometers is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies are essential to maintain efficient production, ensure product quality, and uphold workplace safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by metal cell operators and how can they be overcome?

Metal Cell Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols while handling hazardous materials and operating high-temperature machinery. Staying attentive to equipment malfunctions and process deviations is critical, as even minor errors can impact production quality or safety. To succeed, operators should commit to continuous learning about new technologies and procedures, actively participate in safety trainings, and develop strong communication skills to coordinate effectively with maintenance and quality control teams.

What is the difference between Metal Cell Operator vs Metal Fabricator?

AspectMetal Cell OperatorMetal Fabricator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, welding certificationsRequires welding, blueprint reading, safety training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, assembly lineWorkshop, fabrication shop, construction sites
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturingConstruction, industrial manufacturing, custom metalwork

While both roles involve working with metals, the Metal Cell Operator primarily focuses on operating automated or semi-automated equipment within a manufacturing cell, often emphasizing welding and assembly. In contrast, a Metal Fabricator typically handles cutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts manually or with machinery, often working on custom projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on skills and work environment preferences.

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What are popular job titles related to Metal Cell Operator jobs?

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Infographic showing various Metal Cell Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,866 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

HOURLY PRODUCTION - Metal Cell Operator

Howmet Aerospace

La Porte, IN • On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Perform metal cleaning, finishing, and dimensional inspection of castings to meet customer specifications.

  • Read and interpret Product Criteria and Activity Instructions to ensure proper setup and processing.

  • Use various equipment such as hand grinding tools, auto gages, and other metal cleaning and inspection tools to complete tasks.


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 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