Thermal Processing Specialist

Responsibilities

This position is located in Whitehall, MI and will support the manufacture of Single Crystal and Directionally Solidified and Equiaxed product through process control and improvement initiatives specific to the Kiln process in our state-of-the-art ceramic core facility.

The Thermal Process Specialist, in partnership with the Thermal Process Owner is responsible for developing & executing operating procedures, developing process improvements, directing, and implementing equipment projects and troubleshooting operating problems for kilns and prebake ovens. Activities will include but not limited to solving technical problems, identifying best practices, process management (process control and capability improvements). This position works close with plant maintenance and manufacturing.

Position will be responsible for:

• Plan and direct repairs, rebuilds for all prebakes and kilns (internal and external)
• Identify process and equipment improvements utilizing internal and external resources.
• Troubleshoot operating problems and emergencies.
• Conduct audits and monitor/facilitate corrective actions.
• Manage fuel consumption and fuel efficiency for thermal process.
• Work with Manufacturing and Engineering to optimize equipment utilization.
• Analyze process data to determine actions for process and equipment improvements.
• Prepare budgetary information and capital requests on equipment for process improvements.
• Daily thermal process audits and inspections
• Monitor process performance and determine corrective actions.
• Troubleshoots and resolves day-to-day process and equipment issues related to thermal process
  
  

Job Roles

• Systems thinker--sees the business and its operation holistically; understands actions and reactions; considers multiple pathways of potential effect before decisions; thinks strategically about interventions with an eye toward scale
• Optimizer--constantly challenging the organization to work smarter; supports others to ensure they have what they need to do their work successfully
• Anticipation--looks ahead to minimize potential issues and maximize advantages; prepares others for what comes next
• Operational accelerator--drives continuous improvement; understands ramifications of automation and other advances; advocates for safety, ergonomics and scalable solutions
• Organization and structure--works within existing structures while striving to improve and standardize them; provides accurate information; galvanizes others toward common goals
• Influence--leverages knowledge, relationship, data and perspective to persuade, educate and navigate; gains buy in and adoption of ideas and practices at scale; interacts with a variety of stakeholders
• Data informed--focused on things that drive quantifiable business outcomes; evaluates based on quantitative feedback; knows and explains the “why” behind actions
• Prioritized reaction--handles the unexpected without losing sight of important objectives; reacts where greatest leverage points exist
• Relationship--connects individually and with teams across shifts and practices; builds rapport and commonality; creates a “win together” ethic; serves as liaison between shop floor and engineering; keeps the pulse of the floor; helps people feel heard
  
  

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in machine rebuilds, retrofits and integrations.
• 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.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Ceramic core mfg. / thermal processing of ceramics or thermal processing
• Familiar with maintenance of Kilns
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Basic electrical, masonry and mechanical stills
• Knowledge of Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing
• PLC and controller programming
  
  

About Us

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