Black Oxide Operator - 1st Shift

Position: Black Oxide Operator - 1st Shift 5am to 3pm
Job Summary The Black Oxide Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the black oxide finishing line to apply a consistent chemical conversion coating to metal parts. This role ensures parts meet quality requirements for appearance and corrosion resistance while maintaining safe chemical handling, accurate documentation, and clean process control. Black oxide is a chemical conversion process and requires strong attention to cleaning, rinsing, bath condition, and handling practices.

Department:
FinishingFLSA Status:
Non-Exempt

Reports To:

Finishing Supervisor Compensation:

Entry (0–1 yr / trainable): $20.00/hr Basic racking, line operation, documentation, inspection with supervision

Intermediate (1–5 yrs): $21.00–$25.00/hr Independently runs line, performs bath checks/additions, identifies defects, maintains logs Senior (5+ yrs ): $26.00–$30.00/hr Troubleshooting, tighter quality ownership, tank maintenance support, trains others, supports audits

Core Responsibilities Operate the black oxide line: load/rack parts, run parts through cleaning/rinsing/oxide/oil or seal steps (per VSS work instructions), and unload/pack parts safely.

Perform required pre-cleaning / pretreatment steps to ensure proper finish (degreasing, rinsing discipline, surface prep).Monitor and record process controls such as:

Bath temperature, time, concentration checks

Part counts, lot tracking, and processing logs Perform visual and basic dimensional/handling checks:

Uniform black finish, staining, spotting, streaking, rub-off concerns

Identify defects and escalate to Quality/lead promptly

Conduct basic line upkeep:

Tank/line housekeeping, filter checks, tool maintenance

Spill response readiness; keeps area clean

Safely handle chemicals, PPE, and waste streams:

Follow SDS, labeling, storage, and disposal requirements

Support environmental/EHS expectations (including wastewater rules)
Support production flow:

Communicate priorities, shortages, and issues to Finishing leads and shift manager(s)
Coordinate staging, packaging, and part protection to prevent damage.

Quality & Compliance Expectations Follow documented work instructions and control plans; complete required paperwork accurately and in real time.

Consistently follows safety protocols for chemical handling and PPE.Required

Skills & Qualifications Ability to follow standardized work instructions and maintain accurate logs.

Comfort working around chemicals and wearing PPE for extended periods.

Basic math and measurement skills; ability to read job travelers/work orders.

Strong attention to detail (finish consistency depends heavily on process discipline).

Preferred Qualifications 1+ year experience in metal finishing, plating, coating, or chemical process operations.

Familiarity with racking/fixturing, part handling to prevent nicks/dings, and basic inspection tools.

Experience supporting 6S or continuous improvement in a production environment.

Physical & Work Environment Standing/walking for long periods; repetitive lifting/moving of parts/fixtures.

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs Exposure to wet areas, chemical fumes/odors, heat, and PPE requirements (gloves, apron, face shield, respirator as required).
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