Electrochem Etch Operator I

RTCA • Sumner, WA

5d • $20 - $23 • Onsite

About The Position

The Electrochemical Etch Operator applies permanent identification markings to aerospace components using electrochemical etching equipment. The operator ensures part numbers, serial numbers, and lot codes are accurate, legible, correctly located, and traceable. Working from travelers, drawings, and customer marking specifications, the operator partners with Assembly, Quality, and Production to keep marked hardware compliant and moving on schedule.

This is a full-time, onsite position at RTCA’s Sumner, Washington location. The position requires a U.S. Person, as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15, to meet Export Control compliance requirements. The compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $20–$23 per hour, commensurate with experience; some shifts may include differential pay.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, drawings, and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when verifying part numbers, serial numbers, and lot numbers.
• Ability to follow chemical handling and safety requirements and use PPE.
• Basic computer skills for entering production and traceability information.
• Must be a U.S. Person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 to meet Export Control compliance requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with electrochemical etching, laser marking, engraving, stamping, or other part-marking methods.
• Aerospace, defense, medical device, or other regulated manufacturing experience.
• Familiarity with marking specifications such as MIL-STD-130, AS478, or customer-specific marking requirements.
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and aerospace traceability requirements.
• Experience creating marking stencils.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate electrochemical etch marking equipment, including power units, marking heads, and electrolyte pads, to apply identification markings.
• Review travelers, drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to determine marking content, location, size, and method.
• Create, order, and maintain marking stencils, and verify stencil content before use.
• Select the appropriate electrolyte, AC/DC power setting, and marking time for materials including aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and nickel alloys.
• Prepare part surfaces before marking, then neutralize, clean, and dry parts to prevent corrosion or residue.
• Verify part numbers, serial numbers, lot numbers, and revision levels before marking to prevent mix-ups.
• Inspect completed markings for legibility, depth, location, and appearance, and identify and segregate nonconforming parts.
• Handle finished aerospace components carefully to prevent damage, contamination, or loss of traceability.
• Handle, store, and dispose of electrolytes and neutralizers safely, following SDS requirements and using appropriate PPE.
• Maintain accurate production, traceability, and travel documentation.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and keep the marking area clean and organized.
• Coordinate with Quality, Assembly, and Production to resolve marking questions or discrepancies.
• Take on tasks outside normal duties when needed and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan.
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions.
• Basic and supplemental life insurance.
• Long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine paid company holidays.
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts.
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED