Job Description

Job Title

Chemical Conversion / Plating Line Team Lead

Reporting To

Production Manager / Operations Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Chemical Conversion / Plating Line Team Lead to take responsibility for the day-to-day operation, control, and continuous improvement of our chemical conversion and plating processes. This is a hands-on leadership role, working alongside one other operator, with accountability for process control, chemical health, quality, and compliance.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of chemical conversion processes, a practical approach to chemistry, and the problem-solving ability to identify, diagnose, and correct process issues before they impact quality or delivery.

Our current and upcoming processes include:

Iridite NCP SurTec 650V Alodine 1200S Phosphate (planned introduction)
All of these process are IAW MIL-DTL-5541F

Key Responsibilities

Plating Line & Process Control

Run and oversee the chemical conversion / plating line on a daily basis. Ensure all chemical tanks are maintained within specification, including control of pH, concentration, temperature, immersion time, and contamination levels. Carry out routine and non-routine solution testing in line with customer, supplier, and internal requirements. Identify out-of-spec conditions and take corrective action, including chemical additions, adjustments, or bath maintenance. Diagnose plating and conversion coating defects and implement corrective and preventative actions.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

Act as the first point of escalation for process-related issues on the plating line. Investigate test failures, quality issues, and non-conformances, identifying root causes and implementing effective fixes. Support continuous improvement of process stability, efficiency, and repeatability. Assist with the introduction and qualification of new processes (e.g. phosphate line).

Quality & Compliance

Ensure all work is carried out in accordance with approved process specifications, work instructions, and customer requirements. Maintain accurate records for solution testing, chemical additions, corrective actions, and maintenance. Support audits and approvals (e.g. NADCAP, AS9100, customer audits) by ensuring chemical processes are compliant and well controlled. Work closely with Quality to address any issues relating to coating performance or test results.

Team Leadership

Lead and work alongside one other plating line operator, setting daily priorities and supporting workload planning. Provide on-the-job guidance, training, and support to ensure safe and consistent working practices. Promote a strong safety culture and ensure correct use of PPE and safe handling of chemicals at all times.

Health, Safety & Environmental

Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals in line with COSHH and environmental requirements. Identify potential safety risks within the plating area and support actions to reduce or eliminate them. Ensure spill response procedures and emergency controls are understood and followed.

Skills & Experience

Essential

Proven experience running or supporting a chemical conversion or plating line. Strong practical understanding of chemical process control (e.g. pH control, concentration, temperature, contamination). Demonstrable problem-solving skills with the ability to identify process issues and implement corrective actions. Experience carrying out solution testing and responding to test failures. Ability to work accurately, methodically, and under pressure. Good communication skills and the confidence to lead day-to-day activities within a small team.

Desirable

Experience with aerospace or high-specification surface treatments. Familiarity with processes such as Iridite, SurTec 650V, Alodine 1200S, or phosphate coatings. Experience working within NADCAP and/or AS9100 environments.

Personal Attributes

Hands-on and proactive approach. Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality. Calm and logical when troubleshooting issues. Willingness to take ownership of process performance. Team-focused with the ability to lead by example.

Working Environment

Manufacturing and chemical processing environment. Use of chemicals and PPE required.
Full Time Working Hours are Monday - Thursday 0800-1700 & Friday 0800-1300.

Job Types:

Full-time, Permanent

Pay:

15.00-16.00 per hour

Schedule:

8-hour shift Day shift Monday to Friday Overtime

Ability to commute/relocate:

Exeter, EX2 8PQ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Work Location:

In person

Benefits:

Additional leave Free parking On-site parking
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 15.00-16.00 per hour

Expected hours: 36.75 per week

Benefits:

Free parking On-site parking
Experience:

Plating/Surface Treatment/Similar field: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person