What are the responsibilities and job description for the Thermal Processing Technician — Special Processes position at Howmet Aerospace (Winsted, CT)?
About the Role
Join our team as a Thermal Processing Technician — Special Processes. You’ll run heat-treat furnaces and finishing operations that keep critical components moving safely through aerospace, defense, transportation, and energy supply chains.
A day in your shift
- Begin by confirming parts are cleaned, ultrasonically degreased (when required), and completely dry.
- Load furnaces, set parameters per operation sheets, and execute the production schedule.
- Monitor cycles, verify and sign off heat-treat charts, and maintain calibration and quality records.
- Run certified special processes: shot peen, airflow, and waterflow as needed.
- Conduct visual-first inspections with high attention to detail and validate to operation-sheet specs.
- Troubleshoot issues and partner with the Quality Engineer or Special Processes Engineer to resolve.
- Unpack and stage material; replace totes and liners as needed; split routers to route work correctly.
- Enter serial lists into the heat-treat database to ensure traceability.
- Support 6S audits and finish with end-of-shift cleanup.
- Promote and follow EHS and Quality programs, policies, and the Employee Handbook.
- Maintain FPI Level I and/or Visual Inspection certification and reliable attendance.
Compensation and shifts
- Minimum starting salary: $21.00
- Shift differentials: 2nd shift $2.00/hour; 3rd shift $3.00/hour
- Training may be on 1st shift for several months if required
- External hires are eligible for a $3,000 sign-on bonus
Benefits
- Medical coverage starting day one
- Dental and vision
- Vacation and additional time-off benefits
- Excellent 401(k) match
- Growth potential and referral bonus program
- Overtime incentives
Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Skills and abilities:
- Comfort with basic math (add, subtract, multiply, divide), decimals, and fractions.
- Read and follow formulas, charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, and diagrams.
- Use computers and scanning devices; work with adjustable measuring tools; complete and check reports, forms, and records where interpretation is required.
Physical demands:
- Handle parts from 1 to 60 lbs. with both manual and mechanical assist as needed.
- Pass a visual acuity test; perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm motions.
Why it matters
The components you process help move people and goods, support national defense, and keep vital infrastructure running. Your precision is the first line of defense against nonconforming product reaching our customers—don’t accept it, don’t create it, and don’t pass it along.
Eligibility:
- 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.
Ready to make an impact? Apply today to see if you qualify for the Heat Treat / Finishing Tech opportunity.
Salary : $21 - $24