CNC Machinist - Big Lake at Howmet Aerospace
Job Description
At a Glance
- Company: Howmet Aerospace
- Location: Big Lake, Minnesota
- Job Type: Full-Time
- Pay Range: $25 - $40/hr (based on experience)
- Shift: 2nd Shift
- Shift Differential: %
- Overtime: Paid after 8 hours per day
- Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level
- Work Authorization: U.S. work authorization required (no visa sponsorship)
Why This Role Exists
This role supports long-term production needs at Howmet's Big Lake facility, part of the company's aerospace structures business. Machinists here are responsible for producing precision parts and assemblies that meet exact aerospace and defense requirements.
The Work You'll Be Doing
In this role, you will:
- Plan machining and assembly sequences
- Set up and operate CNC machining equipment
- Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
- Assemble machined components into finished assemblies
- Perform drilling, tapping, deburring, and finishing operations
- Inspect parts using precision measuring tools
- Complete quality and production documentation
- Troubleshoot issues and support process improvements
- Collaborate with engineering, quality, and inspection teams
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment following 5S standards
Machines, Controls & Inspection
- Machines: CNC mills, lathes, and grinding equipment (3-, 4-, or 5-axis)
- Controls: Siemens, Fanuc
- Inspection Tools: CMMs, micrometers, indicators, height gages
What We're Looking For
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 1+ year of machinist experience
- Blueprint and specification reading ability
- Experience setting up and operating machine tools
- Strong attention to detail
Preferred (Not Required):
- Trade school training or extended machining experience
- Multi-axis machining exposure
- GD&T knowledge
- ERP system experience
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Materials You'll Work With
- Aerospace-grade metals including titanium and advanced alloys
Why Machinists Like Working Here
- Stable aerospace work with long-term programs
- Competitive hourly pay with shift differential
- Excellent benefits starting Day 1
- Clean, structured, safety-driven environment
- Opportunities to grow skills within a global aerospace company
Pay, Benefits & Schedule
- Pay: $25 - $40/hr DOE
- Shift Differential: 20%
- Overtime: Paid after 8 hours/day
- Medical, Dental, Vision: Day 1 eligibility
- 401(k): 4.2% match + additional 3% company contribution (7.2% total)
- Target Performance Pay: 5%
- PTO + 10 Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave: Up to 3 weeks at 100% pay
- Life Insurance & Employee Assistance Program
Apply
Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.
Apply now or save this role for later.
$52k - $83k beats the market for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic nationally
This is a strong offer—weigh total comp and growth potential.
Slight employer advantage
Standard dynamics. Preparation and demonstrated value matter most.
Who this leverage applies to
Where to negotiate
Likely Possible Unlikely
Watch out for
Focus on demonstrating unique fit and value.
Does this path compound?
Steady work, but limited growth in both jobs and pay.
Consider building adjacent skills to stay marketable.