Job Title: Wax Department - Manufacturing Operator
Location: Sowton Industrial Estate, Exeter, EX2
Employment Type: Full-Time | Shift-Based
Shift Pattern: 2 shift rotation, Monday to Friday (week 1 06:00am-14:00pm / week 2 14:00pm-22:00pm)
Pay Rate: £15.93 per hour
✨ Your Work, Our Flight
At Howmet Aerospace, everything starts with precision — and in the Wax Department, you’ll be part of the foundation that makes advanced casting possible. From delicate wax components to flawless patterns, your steady hands and sharp eyes will help shape parts that fly, rotate, and power our world.
Whether you’re experienced in manufacturing or new to the field, we’ll provide training and support to help you succeed.
What You'll Do
Perform fine finishing and detailing of wax components with steady hands and precision tools
Handle delicate parts with extreme care to preserve pattern integrity
Follow technical drawings and instructions to meet exact engineering specifications
Conduct quality control inspections, flagging any defects or inconsistencies
Set, load, and prepare components for downstream processes
Maintain a clean, organised workspace to support production flow and casting schedules
Adhere to all Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) standards
Collaborate with your team to keep work moving smoothly and efficiently
Pitch in with other tasks when needed — teamwork makes it happen
What You Bring
A steady hand and sharp eye — confident working with fragile, detailed components
Ability to read and interpret technical documentation
Pride in delivering high-quality, accurate work
Strong communication skills and a collaborative attitude
Willingness to learn and grow in a safety-first industrial environment
Experience in wax and casting is helpful — but not required (training provided)
Why You'll Love This Role
Be part of a team that values precision, skill, and attention to detail
Hands-on experience in an essential stage of high-performance casting
Learn specialised tools and techniques used across advanced manufacturing
Enjoy a clean, structured environment where safety and quality come first
Grow your skills with ongoing development and support
Specialised Roles Within the Wax Department
️ Wax Injection Operator – High-Value Precision Pressing
Summary:
Operate wax injection presses to produce critical, high-quality patterns using precision tooling for aerospace and engineering applications.
Key Responsibilities:
Run wax injection presses to exact specifications
Protect and maintain high-value tooling
Follow detailed technical instructions and production documents
Work efficiently to meet daily production goals without sacrificing quality
Record outputs and flag any process issues or defects
Keep workstations safe, clean, and organized
Inspect each wax pattern carefully for structural integrity
What You’ll Need:
Strong manual dexterity and mechanical awareness
Confidence using industrial machinery in a high-standards setting
Careful handling of expensive tools and small components
Basic understanding of equipment care and safety procedures
Ability to stay focused and meet deadlines in a fast-moving environment
Physical Requirements:
Sit for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks
Safely lift and handle materials up to 10kg
Comfortable working with hot wax and machinery
Wax Cell Operator – Hand Finishing & Repair Specialist
Summary:
Use your fine motor skills and eye for detail to finish, refine, and inspect intricate wax patterns — ensuring each one meets the highest possible standard.
Key Responsibilities:
Finish and refine wax patterns with hand tools and sharp instruments
Detect and repair subtle surface defects using precision techniques
Follow work instructions meticulously
Record data and report deviations to shift leads
Use small, sharp tools like tweezers, brushes, dental picks
Maintain a fast, steady rhythm while protecting fragile components
Keep your area safe, clean, and ready for action
What You’ll Need:
Excellent hand-eye coordination and patience
Experience with detailed handcraft work (e.g. electronics, jewellery, or model-making) is a plus
Familiarity with small tools and warm materials
Ability to work solo or in a team in a production setting
Focus on quality and responsibility in every pattern you handle
Physical Requirements:
Sit or stand for extended periods
Perform repetitive and precise tasks
Safely handle wax and tools in a controlled environment
Lift items up to 10kg as needed
✈️ Ready to Join Howmet?
From your hands to the skies — your attention to detail in the Wax Department plays a key role in creating parts that power aerospace and energy solutions around the globe. If you’re ready to work with purpose, precision, and pride, apply now and grow your career with Howmet Aerospace
Salary description
£15.93 - £15.93 per hour