Plating Operator

We are seeking a detail-oriented Plating Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for operating and monitoring plating equipment to coat metal products according to work order specifications, quality standards, and safety requirements.

Required Skills, Experience, and Knowledge

·        Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, and quality control practices used to manufacture products effectively.

·        Understanding of environmental, health, safety, and security procedures, including relevant workplace policies and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.

·        Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and related applications.

·        Basic understanding of chemistry, including chemical composition, chemical processes, safe handling, warning signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

·        Strong communication skills, with the ability to share information clearly with team members, supervisors, and other departments.

·        Commitment to continuous improvement by monitoring performance, procedures, and products and recommending corrective actions when needed.

Key Responsibilities
·        Set up and control plating equipment to electrolytically coat metal products and produce surfaces with specified characteristics.

·        Review work orders to determine product size and composition, plating solution type, concentration and temperature, required metal type and thickness, plating location, electrical current, and processing time.

·        Immerse products in cleaning, rinsing, and plating baths.

·        Adjust rectifier controls to manage current flow through plating solution and support proper electro-deposition of metal on products.

·        Set temperatures for coating substances and adjust machine and equipment speeds as needed.

·        Adjust voltage and amperage based on process observations.

·        Rinse and dry products using water, cloths, centrifugal dryers, ovens, or tumbling barrels to maintain a clean, even surface.

·        Visually inspect finished products and measure plating thickness using tools such as micrometers or calipers to confirm conformance with customer specifications.

·        Under supervisor direction, mix and test plating solution strength using instruments and chemical tests.

·        Plate small objects, such as nuts or bolts, using a motor-driven barrel when required.

·        Maintain production and labor records.

·        Operate hoists to position products on or off machines and assist with packaging.

·        Position containers and load or unload materials using dollies, hand trucks, or forklifts.

·        Monitor gauges and products to ensure equipment is operating properly; make adjustments or stop machines when issues occur.

·        Perform routine equipment maintenance, including cleaning tanks, transferring solutions, and lubricating moving parts.

·        Transfer chemicals from tanks, drums, bags, pails, and other containers.

·        Clean and maintain equipment and the area around the assigned workspace.

·        Enter, record, store, and maintain production information in written or electronic form.

·        Perform other tasks as assigned by a supervisor or manager.

Qualifications

·        Prior production, manufacturing, plating, chemical processing, or related experience preferred.

·        Ability to follow work orders, written instructions, safety procedures, and quality standards.

·        Comfortable working around chemicals and production equipment while following all required safety guidelines.

·        Strong attention to detail and ability to identify quality or equipment issues.

·        Ability to maintain accurate records and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.

Work Environment

This position works in a manufacturing environment and requires adherence to all safety, environmental, health, and quality procedures. The Plating Operator may work with chemicals, plating baths, tanks, hoists, hand trucks, forklifts, and related production equipment.