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Electroplating Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electroplater

Watervliet, NY · On-site

$23.43/hr

The Watervliet Arsenal is an Army-owned and -operated manufacturing center located in New York. It ... Perform electroplating and metal finishing on different types of metals of equipment used in ...

Process Engineer - Electroplating Job Purpose: The PCB industry is experiencing a renaissance with ... are operator-friendly. Work collaboratively with upstream and downstream process modules to ...

Improve electroplating processes for various metals (e.g., nickel, gold, silver, chrome, zinc ... Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and plating process documentation.

Removes built up coating when tolerance or quality does not meet requirements by operating electric ... of electroplating tanks, mixing solutions and monitoring basic parameters such as voltage and ...

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That's why we are looking for Process Line Operators - individuals who understand the rhythm ... We will provide the specific technical training on electroplating chemistry; you provide the ...

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That's why we are looking for Process Line Operators - individuals who understand the rhythm ... We will provide the specific technical training on electroplating chemistry; you provide the ...

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Electroplating Operator information

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$26

How much do electroplating operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for electroplating operator in the United States is $19.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Electroplating Operator vs Metal Finisher?

AspectElectroplating OperatorMetal Finisher
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, sometimes specific electroplating certificationsOften requires finishing or polishing certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, plating plants, industrial settingsManufacturing, finishing shops, industrial environments
Job DutiesOperate electroplating equipment, monitor chemical baths, ensure coating qualityPolish, grind, and finish metal surfaces for appearance and quality
Industry UsageElectroplating industry, manufacturingMetalworking, manufacturing, finishing

The main difference is that Electroplating Operators focus on applying coatings via electrochemical processes, while Metal Finishers handle surface polishing and finishing. Both roles require safety training and are found in manufacturing environments, but their specific tasks and certifications differ slightly.

Which operator job pays the most?

Among electroplating operators, those working in specialized industries such as aerospace or electronics tend to earn higher wages due to the technical skills and certifications required. Supervisory or lead roles within electroplating operations also typically offer higher pay compared to entry-level positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Electroplating Operators and how can they be overcome?

Electroplating Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent coating thickness, preventing contamination in plating baths, and adhering to strict safety protocols due to exposure to chemicals. These issues can be managed by following detailed operating procedures, regularly monitoring equipment, and participating in ongoing safety training. Collaborating closely with quality control and maintenance teams also helps ensure high-quality results and minimizes downtime.

How much does an electroplater make?

Electroplating operators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher wages, and the job often involves working in a manufacturing or metal finishing environment with safety protocols in place.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Electroplating operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most roles in manufacturing or technical fields pay significantly less than this amount.

What does an Electroplating Operator do?

An Electroplating Operator is responsible for coating metal or plastic objects with a thin layer of metal using an electrochemical process. They set up, operate, and monitor electroplating machines and tanks, ensuring the correct thickness and finish of the metal coating. Operators must also prepare surfaces, mix solutions, and inspect finished products for quality. Safety and adherence to environmental regulations are important parts of the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electroplating Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electroplating Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemistry, attention to detail, and familiarity with safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Experience with electroplating equipment, chemical handling, and measurement tools such as micrometers is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and the ability to work precisely under time constraints help operators stand out. These skills ensure the production of high-quality, consistent finishes while maintaining a safe workplace and meeting industry standards.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Jobs that can earn $1,000,000 annually typically include high-level executive roles such as CEOs, successful entrepreneurs, investment bankers, and certain specialized medical professionals. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes ownership stakes or performance-based bonuses. For an electroplating operator, reaching such income levels is uncommon without additional business or investment opportunities.
More about Electroplating Operator jobs
What states have the most Electroplating Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Electroplating Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Electroplating Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Electroplating Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Electroplating Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,676 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$23.43/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 488 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Domestic Defense Industrial Base (DIB) & MRTFB in DoD to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: The Watervliet Arsenal is an Army-owned and -operated manufacturing center located in New York. It is the oldest, continuously active arsenal in the United States having begun operations in 1813.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) Electroplater without more than normal supervision. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
WG-05 Minimum Qualifications: Your resume must reflect experience which shows your ability to do the work of an electroplater without more than normal supervision which includes: (1) Aptitude for understanding and using tools; (2) Monitor/use different types of manufacturing/industrial equipment; and (3) Use basic measuring instruments to check accuracy of dimensions.
WG-07 Minimum Qualifications: Your resume must reflect experience which shows your ability to do the work of an electroplater without more than normal supervision which includes: (1) Perform metal finishing on different types of metals; (2) Use equipment in manufacturing/industrial environment; and (3) Participate in the processing and/ or treatment of metals used in manufacturing/industrial environment.
WG-09 Minimum Qualifications: Your resume must reflect experience which shows your ability to do the work of an electroplater without more than normal supervision which includes: (1) Perform electroplating and metal finishing on different types of metals of equipment used in manufacturing/industrial environment; (2) Determine thickness of plating; (3) Determine kinds of plating or metal finishing to use for types of metals; and (4) Determine amount of electric current in amperes and length of plating time.
  • PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work requires frequent standing, stooping, bending and reaching. Required to lift/carry items weighing up to 44 lbs.Mechanical lifting devices/other employees are available to assist with lifts of 45lbs. and over. While operating the crane, the employee pulls and depresses various hand and foot controls, and must be able to bend and twist their bodies to observe the load and its clearance over and around other objects, and keep their balance during starting and stopping motions of the crane.
  • WORKING CONDITIONS: Works inside in shop area having adequate lighting and ventilation. Protection from exposure to burns, scalds, and skin irritations requires the employee to wear uncomfortable safety equipment such as rubber gloves, rubber aprons, goggles, face shields, or respirator. Handles hazardous waste as required. While operating the crane heat maybe uncomfortable while working indoors near the ceiling,and the employee is subject to falls while climbing to and from the control cab.
Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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