Plating Shop Technician / Electroplating Technician - 1529
12-Month Contract
Southampton (onsite)
£24.64ph, UMB, inside IR35
SC, can start on BPSS
UKEO
Role Purpose
To carry out metal finishing and electroplating processes safely and accurately, ensuring coated components meet quality, thickness, and appearance specifications while complying with environmental and safety standards.
Key Responsibilities
Plating Operations
- Prepare components for plating (cleaning, degreasing, rinsing, masking)
- Set up and operate plating tanks (e.g. zinc, nickel, chrome, copper, silver & gold)
- Monitor bath chemistry, temperature, voltage, and current
- Load and unload parts using racks, jigs, or barrels
- Carry out post-plating processes such as passivation, drying, and inspection
Quality Control
- Inspect plated parts for thickness, adhesion, finish, and defects
- Use measuring tools (scales, micrometers, thickness gauges, test panels)
- Identify and correct plating faults (burning, blistering, poor coverage)
- Record process data and quality results
Maintenance & Housekeeping
- Maintain tanks, filters, pumps, and anodes
- Assist with bath make-up, replenishment, and chemical additions
- Keep work areas clean and organised
- Support waste treatment and effluent control processes
Health, Safety & Environment
- Follow COSHH and chemical handling procedures
- Wear and maintain appropriate PPE
- Handle acids, alkalis, and metal salts safely
- Comply with environmental and waste disposal regulations
- Report spills, incidents, or unsafe conditions immediately
Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills
- Understanding of electroplating principles
- Ability to follow Process sheets and work instructions
- Basic chemical handling and measurement
- Fault-finding and problem-solving in plating processes
Personal Skills
- Attention to detail and consistency
- Good manual dexterity
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong safety awareness
- Reliable and methodical approach to work
Qualifications & Experience
- Previous experience in a plating or metal finishing environment (preferred)
- On-the-job training typically provided
- NVQ / vocational qualification in Surface Treatment or Manufacturing (desirable)
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills required
Working Conditions
- Industrial workshop environment
- Standing for long periods
- Exposure to chemicals (with PPE and controls)
- Shift work may be required
Important - This role requires you to complete a Trades Test before we can submit your CV to the client. Only apply if you are willing to attend our Whiteley site to undertake this assessment.
