Pre-Finishing Manufacturing Operative

Gap Personnel; Exeter; On-site; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturing company in Exeter is seeking a Manufacturing Operator for its Pre-Finishing Department. This role involves operating advanced machinery and ensuring all components meet world-class standards. Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, safety-focused, and possess strong manual handling skills. Join a company that values your contribution and invests in your growth.

Benefits

Dynamic, safety-focused environment

Experience with industry-leading technology

Opportunities for growth

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety.
• Team-first attitude and adaptability.
• Physically fit with excellent manual handling ability.

Responsibilities

• Champion Environmental, Health & Safety best practices.
• Carefully inspect and process castings to exact specifications.
• Operate advanced machinery and equipment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Manual handling

Adaptability

Tools

Cut-off & grinding machines

Ultra-high-pressure (UHP) water blasters

Grit blasting systems

Hand tools

Job description

Precision-Made Careers Start Here – Forge Ahead with Howmet!

Position: Manufacturing Operator – Pre-Finishing Department
Location: Sowton Industrial Estate, Exeter, EX2
Employment Type: Full-Time | Shift-Based
Shifts: 06:00 – 14:00 / 14:00 – 22:00 / 22:00 – 06:00 (on rotation)

Pay Rate: £15.51 per hour

Launch Your Career in a High-Performance Industry

Join Howmet’s Pre-Finishing Department and play a key role in crafting precision components for the aerospace and gas sectors. As a Manufacturing Operator, you'll be hands-on in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment where Safety and Excellence are non-negotiable.

You'll work with cutting-edge tools and machinery, ensuring each casting meets our world-class standards. If you take pride in teamwork, precision, and reliability—this is the role for you.

️ What You'll Be Doing

• Champion Environmental, Health & Safety best practices in every task
• Carefully inspect and process castings to exact specifications
• Operate advanced machinery and equipment, including:
• Cut-off & grinding machines
• Ultra-high-pressure (UHP) water blasters
• Grit blasting systems
• Hand tools & hoists
• Rotate across processing stations within a skilled, close-knit team
• Support continuous improvement through Howmet
• Safely handle components (10–15 kg) using best lifting practices
• Take on additional tasks to support team and production goals

What You Bring

Must-Haves:

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety
• Team-first attitude and adaptability
• Physically fit with excellent manual handling ability
• Eagerness to learn and contribute to manufacturing

Bonus Skills (Nice to Have):

• Experience in manufacturing, machining, or metalwork
• Knowledge of finishing techniques (grinding, cutting, shot blasting)
• Comfortable using hand tools and operating equipment
• Technical/engineering background

Why Join Howmet?

• Be part of a global leader in engineered products
• Work in a dynamic, safety-focused environment
• Gain experience with industry-leading technology
• Join a company that invests in your growth and values your input

Ready to Take Off with Us?

At Howmet, we don’t just make metal parts — we shape careers. Bring your hands-on skills, precision mindset, and team spirit to a company that’s building the future.