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

Also called: Anodizer, Chrome Plater, Electro Plater, Plater

What they do:

Set up, operate, or tend plating machines to coat metal or plastic products with chromium, zinc, copper, cadmium, nickel, or other metal to protect or decorate surfaces. Typically, the product being coated is immersed in molten metal or an electrolytic solution.

On the job, you would:
  • 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.
On the job, you'll need:

Manufactured or Agricultural Goods

  • manufacture and distribution of products

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
  • chemistry

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical

Basic Skills

  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Hand and Finger Use

  • hold or move items with your hands
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • communicate by speaking

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Cooperation
  • Achievement/Effort
  • Integrity
  • Self Control

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Procurement software

  • Oracle Advanced Procurement

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $37,900

Education

No high school diploma/GED or high school diploma/GED is usually needed.

Explore More

See other careers in the Manufacturing industry.