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- Tasks: Finish and refine wax components with precision tools in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Howmet Aerospace, a leader in advanced manufacturing and aerospace solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, training provided, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a skilled team creating parts that power the world.
- Qualifications: Steady hands, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Enjoy a clean, safe workspace with ongoing support and development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Precision-Made Careers Start Here – Forge Ahead with Howmet!
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: £15.18 per hour
Your Work, Our Flight
At Howmet Aerospace, everything starts with precision — and in the Wax Department, you will 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 are experienced in manufacturing or new to the field, we will provide training and support to help you succeed.
What You Will 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 Will 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 Will 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 Will 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 are ready to work with purpose, precision, and pride, apply now and grow your career with Howmet Aerospace.
Wax Department - Manufacturing Operative in Exeter employer: Gap Personnel - Exeter
Contact Detail:
Gap Personnel - Exeter Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Wax Department - Manufacturing Operative in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Howmet Aerospace and their values. This will help you tailor your conversation during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your hands-on skills! Since the role involves precision work, consider doing some DIY projects or crafts to sharpen your fine motor skills. It’ll give you a confidence boost when discussing your abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees! If you can, reach out to people working at Howmet through LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the Howmet team.
We think you need these skills to ace Wax Department - Manufacturing Operative in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: When you're filling out your application, make sure to highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have, especially if you've worked with delicate components before. We want to see how your steady hands and sharp eyes can contribute to our precision-driven team!
Follow the Instructions: Pay close attention to the application instructions. Just like in the Wax Department, following technical drawings and specifications is key! Make sure you provide all the information we ask for to avoid any hiccups in the process.
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value strong communication skills and a collaborative attitude, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and how you can fit into our team culture!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Howmet Aerospace!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gap Personnel - Exeter
✨Know Your Wax!
Familiarise yourself with the wax manufacturing process and the specific tasks mentioned in the job description. Understanding how delicate components are handled and the importance of precision will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Off Your Steady Hands
During the interview, be prepared to discuss any experiences that demonstrate your manual dexterity and attention to detail. If you have worked with small tools or delicate materials before, share those stories to highlight your relevant skills.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics and training opportunities within the Wax Department. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
✨Safety First!
Since the role emphasises adherence to Environmental Health & Safety standards, be ready to discuss your understanding of safety protocols in a manufacturing environment. Highlight any past experiences where you prioritised safety in your work.
