Plating Operator

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under close supervision, degreases, blasts, and cleans parts and materials for plating and processing through the strip line. Operates small barrel, large barrel, and rack plating equipment for various plating and dipping processes, including but not limited to nickel plating, cadmium plating, cadmium brite dip, chromate dip, muriatic acid treatment, cadmium fluoborate plating, and potassium permanganate application.

• Wash, blast, and clean parts and materials before processing to ensure optimal adhesion and finish quality.
• Mask specific areas of parts for selective plating operations as required.
• Immerse workpieces in appropriate coating or treatment solutions for specified times.
• Monitor solution levels and notify supervisor to adjust or correct as needed to maintain proper chemical concentrations.
• Set up, load, and unload plating equipment (barrel and rack plating systems) as instructed.
• Adjust dials to regulate current and voltage for plating processes, ensuring optimal coating performance.
• Inspect coated or plated areas for defects such as air bubbles, uneven coverage, or incomplete masking.
• Observe gauges, dials, and indicators to verify proper machine operation; make adjustments or stop machines when necessary.
• Report any irregularities or questionable work to the supervisor promptly.
• Assist other operators with various plating and processing operations as assigned.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with safety standards and company expectations.
• Adhere to AIC company policies and quality control guidelines, including AS9100 where applicable.
• Perform other duties as requested, necessary, or appropriate.

In addition to the above, Operators are expected to maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area using established safety standards while adhering to all quality practices. Management may change responsibilities and/or assignments to meet business needs without prior notice. AIC follows an At-Will Employment practice.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• General understanding of measuring methods in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge and/or understanding of AS9100 Quality Management System is a plus.
• Basic shop math understanding required.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Language Skills:

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Effective verbal communication and comprehension of technical documents.

Mathematical Skills:

• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
• Application of basic algebra and geometry concepts.

Reasoning Ability:

• Apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Identify and resolve routine production issues.

Technical Proficiency:

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, router instructions, and part specifications.
• Proper use of calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Operations Monitoring: Ability to observe equipment and process indicators to ensure machines are functioning correctly.
• Operation and Control: Skill in controlling plating and chemical processing systems.
• Active Listening: Capability to attentively listen and follow instructions without interruption.
• Monitoring: Skill in assessing performance to identify improvement areas or required corrective actions.
• Reading Comprehension: Ability to understand work-related documents for accuracy and compliance.

Summary

As a Plating Operator, you will be integral to the manufacturing process, ensuring that products meet stringent quality standards. Reporting to the Production Supervisor, your role involves utilizing precision measuring instruments such as micrometers and calipers to achieve accurate measurements. A high school diploma or GED is required, along with strong communication skills and proficiency in shop math and algebra. Your attention to detail and commitment to quality will be essential in maintaining compliance with AS9100 standards and contributing to the overall efficiency of our operations.