Plating Shop Technician / Electroplating Technician - 1529
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