Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Anodizer
Anodizing Line Operator
Chrome Plater
Coater Associate
Coater Operator
Electro Plater
Galvanizer
Line Operator
Machine Operator
Plater

What is a Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?

Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic are responsible for operating and overseeing machines that apply a coating, such as metal or plastic, to various surfaces and objects. This process, known as plating, is essential in industries where durability and corrosion resistance are prioritized. These professionals set up, operate, and maintain the machinery used in electroplating and other coating processes, ensuring that products meet quality specifications and industry standards.

They typically prepare the materials and machine settings before initiating the plating process, monitoring the operation for adherence to safety and environmental regulations. The role may involve adjusting machine parameters, troubleshooting equipment issues, and conducting quality checks on the finished products. Successful plating machine setters, operators, and tenders possess a keen understanding of the chemical processes involved, along with mechanical proficiency to operate and maintain complex machinery.

Career Assessment
Career Assessment

Tasks

  • Immerse workpieces in coating solutions or liquid metal or plastic for specified times.
  • Adjust dials to regulate flow of current and voltage supplied to terminals to control plating processes.
  • Inspect coated or plated areas for defects, such as air bubbles or uneven coverage.
  • Set up, operate, or tend plating or coating machines to coat metal or plastic products with chromium, zinc, copper, cadmium, nickel, or other metal to protect or decorate surfaces.
  • Observe gauges to ensure that machines are operating properly, making adjustments or stopping machines when problems occur.

Technology Skills

  • Spreadsheet software
    • Microsoft Excel
  • Electronic mail software
    • Microsoft Outlook
  • Procurement software
    • Oracle Advanced Procurement
  • Word processing software
    • Microsoft Word
  • Compliance software
    • Hazardous materials management HMS software

Tools Used

Knowledge

  • Production and Processing

    Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

  • Mathematics

    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

  • Chemistry

    Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

  • English Language

    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

  • Mechanical

    Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Skills

  • Operations Monitoring

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Monitoring

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Operation and Control

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Abilities

  • Control Precision

    The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.

  • Near Vision

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Arm-Hand Steadiness

    The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.

  • Manual Dexterity

    The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.

  • Oral Comprehension

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

  • Less than high school diploma
    49 %
  • High school diploma or equivalent
    47 %

    or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate

  • Bachelor's degree
    3 %

Work Activities

  • Handling and Moving Objects

    Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings

    Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems

    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes

    Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Detailed Work Activities

  • Immerse objects or workpieces in cleaning or coating solutions.
  • Adjust flow of electricity to tools or production equipment.
  • Operate painting or coating equipment.
  • Inspect finishes of workpieces or finished products.
  • Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.

Work Interests

  • Realistic

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

  • Conventional

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

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Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$30730.0 - $57550.0

New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average

Assessment

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