Machine Operator

Howmet Aerospace Inc.; Brea (CA); On-site; USD 24,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays and vacation

Career progression opportunities

Tuition Assistance Program

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace Inc. in Brea, CA is seeking a Machine Operator to set up and operate production countersink/lathe equipment and ensure quality standards. You will read blueprints, perform first article inspections, document production data, and assist with training of new operators.

The role requires on-site work, adherence to safety and LOTO practices, and the ability to stand for long periods. Competitive benefits apply from day one.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• At least 1 year of manufacturing, machining, or machine operation experience preferred.
• Experience operating production equipment in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and specifications.
• Experience using basic measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) preferred.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to quality, productivity, and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Operates standard and specialized production equipment, including loading materials, removing finished parts, and monitoring machine operation for quality and performance.
• Assists with machine setup activities and learns the setup and operation of equipment within assigned departments.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, work instructions, and specifications to perform assigned operations.
• Inspects parts using gauges and measuring instruments, performs First Article inspections, and submits parts for quality verification as required.
• Completes required production and quality documentation, including SPC charting and production records.
• Assists in training operators and supports departmental production activities as needed.
• Follows all safety, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), EHS, and 5S requirements and maintains a clean and organized work area.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Measuring instruments

Quality consciousness

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Comparators

Job description

• Locations 630 E Lambert Rd., Brea, CA, 92821, US (On-site)
• Job Schedule Full time
• Export-Controlled Data 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

Responsibilities

Summary:

Sets up and operates various production countersink/lathe equipment and performs related department functions as assigned. Machine Operator will be held to established production and quality standards. Machine Operator will have control to make minor adjustments to the process or machine after tasks are assigned. This position is required to participate in mandatory department trainings as assigned and may be required to assist in training new department employees.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operation: Operates standard and specialized production equipment, including loading materials, removing finished parts, and monitoring machine operation for quality and performance.
• Setup: Assists with machine setup activities and learns the setup and operation of equipment within assigned departments.
• Blueprint Reading: Reads and interprets blueprints, work instructions, and specifications to perform assigned operations.
• Inspection: Inspect parts using gauges and measuring instruments, performs First Article inspections, and submit parts for quality verification as required.
• Production Reporting: Completes required production and quality documentation, including SPC charting and production records.
• Teamwork/Training: Assists in training operators and supports departmental production activities as needed.
• Safety: Follows all safety, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), EHS, and 5S requirements and maintains a clean and organized work area.

Other: Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position ___$17.38____ - ___$27.63____.

Qualifications

Education, Experience, and Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 1 year of manufacturing, machining, assembly, or machine operation experience preferred.
• Experience operating production equipment in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and specifications.
• Experience using basic measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and comparators preferred.
• Basic knowledge of shop math and manufacturing processes.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to quality, productivity, and safety standards.

Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with team members and supervisors.

• Ability to follow directions, maintain a positive attitude, and demonstrate a willingness to learn.
• Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility is required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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.

The employee is responsible for maintaining fitness-for-duty while holding the above-described position and should be able to perform the essential tasks of the position in a safe, appropriate and effective manner. This refers to the physical, mental and emotional duties of the job.

• Must be able to lift/move 30 lbs. (may not exceed per EHS policies)
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time
• Reaching above and below, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and bending.
• Need to be able to wear safety steel toe shoes and walk around shop floor environment as needed.
• Be able to remove dangling jewelry for shop floor assigned tasks, and wear hearing protection as needed.

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.