Metal Plating​/Finishing Expert

Metal Plating/Finishing Expert

Location: Chicago, IL

Industry: Manufacturing / Metal Finishing

Employment Type: Full-Time | Onsite

Our client, a well-established manufacturer in the Chicago area, is seeking a Metal Plating/Finishing Expert to lead and optimize their metal finishing operations. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in plating processes, surface finishing, and quality standards, as well as a hands‑on approach to process improvement and team leadership.

• Oversee daily operations within the metal plating and finishing department
  , ensuring consistent product quality and compliance with all safety and environmental regulations.
• Develop, monitor, and optimize electroplating, anodizing, and surface treatment processes for various metals (nickel, chrome, zinc, etc.).
• Analyze and troubleshoot plating issues to maintain optimal chemical balance, bath integrity, and production efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to improve process reliability and surface finish consistency.
• Maintain accurate documentation of process parameters, bath maintenance, and inspection results.
• Train and mentor production staff on plating techniques, quality standards, and safety practices.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve throughput, and ensure compliance with ISO and EPA standards
  .
• Manage relationships with chemical suppliers and plating equipment vendors.

• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in metal plating, finishing, or electroplating operations (industrial/manufacturing environment preferred).
• Strong understanding of chemical process control
  , surface preparation, and plating bath chemistry.
• Experience with chrome, nickel, zinc, or cadmium plating processes highly desirable.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and optimize production processes.
• Knowledge of environmental, health, and safety requirements related to plating operations.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
  .
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or ISO 9001 standards.
• Experience supervising a plating team or department.