Business Unit - Wax Process Owner

Howmet Aerospace • Whitehall, MI

2d

About The Position

The Howmet Engines Business Unit Wax Process Owner may be located at any of the US Howmet Engines Business Unit facilities. Using a disciplined process management approach, this position partners with manufacturing operations to implement best practices in wax formulations, injection, assembly, and inspection processes. The role ensures compliance with Business Unit Manuals and Manufacturing Self-Assessment Tools, maintains the Business Unit Wax Manuals, supports stable wax supply, and conducts audits across manufacturing sites and suppliers. It also helps develop and productionize new technologies, materials, and suppliers; evaluates and documents process changes; investigates deviations using root-cause methods and Six Sigma principles; and connects the Research Center with manufacturing facilities to accelerate technology testing and implementation.

The position can be located in Whitehall, Michigan; Dover, New Jersey; Hampton, Virginia; Wichita Falls, Texas; Morristown, Tennessee; or LaPorte, Indiana. The role is subject to ITAR requirements and requires U.S. person status. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Plastics/Polymer Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• At least 5 years of plastics injection molding, investment casting, or related industry experience.
• At least 3 years of injection molding experience.
• Knowledge of wax or plastic materials, compounding, and additives.
• Demonstrated ingenuity and creativity while recognizing prudent risk.
• Exceptional written, oral communication, and presentation skills.
• Leadership traits that positively represent Howmet, with the ability to build trustworthy relationships and energize teams.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility verification is required at hire, and visa sponsorship is unavailable.
• Must meet ITAR U.S. person status requirements: U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident, Political Asylee, or Refugee.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Materials Science, Plastics/Polymer Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 10 years of investment casting industry experience.
• At least 5 years of injection molding experience.
• Recognized plastics industry Master Molder or similar certification.
• Tool-making or tool-design experience, especially for molding.
• Assembly and automation experience.
• Six Sigma Green Belt and/or Black Belt; commitment to achieve Green Belt status within 24 months is required.
• Working knowledge of statistical analysis and SPC.

Responsibilities

• Ensure wax supply, injection, assembly, and inspection processes comply with methods, materials, and equipment specified in Business Unit Manuals and associated Manufacturing Self-Assessment Tools (MSATs).
• Maintain and revise Business Unit Wax Manuals to drive best practices.
• Work with wax suppliers to ensure stable and consistent supply to casting facilities.
• Conduct periodic internal and external audits of the manufacturing, use, and inspection of investment casting wax materials and processes, including at business-unit manufacturing facilities and external suppliers.
• Work with teams to develop and productionize new technologies, materials, and suppliers for cost savings and process and quality improvements related to wax and associated equipment.
• Evaluate and document process changes, obtaining customer or engineering approval when required.
• Investigate root causes of deviations from critical process specifications and provide technical support to Plant Engineering, using Six Sigma methodology to resolve wax injection and assembly issues.
• Connect the Research Center with manufacturing facilities so technology needs are communicated and new technology is rapidly tested and implemented.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage, including FSA and HSA account options.
• Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans with employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution.
• Paid holidays and vacation time, subject to applicable policies.
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs.
• Life insurance and disability coverage plans.
• Optional auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance coverage plans.
• Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior