Plating Cell Lead

Lewis Machine & Tool Co•Eldridge, IA

41d

About The Position

Join a bold team pushing the boundaries of weapon systems for global security. Make cool stuff with awesome people—innovate, protect, and make an impact! LMT Defense proudly supplies precision-engineered weapon systems, components, suppressors, and grenade launchers to the U.S. Military, law enforcement, government agencies, and international partners. For more than 40 years, our mission has remained the same—deliver unmatched quality, innovation, and value in everything we do. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for talented individuals who want to build a career with a company that is fast-paced, forward-thinking, and committed to excellence. The function of the Plating Cell Lead is to provide oversight of daily operations within the plating cell, ensure production goals, quality standards, and safety protocols are all met. This role also includes leading plating operators, monitoring plating processes, maintaining chemical baths, troubleshooting surface defects, enforcing compliance with OSHA and environmental regulations and coordinating with the engineering and quality team to optimize performance in the department and across the organization.

Requirements

High School/GED diploma
Must be able to sign and abide by Company’s employee manual and confidentiality agreement.
Required to successfully complete a background check, job physical and drug screening
Excellent written and verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.
Strong problem-solving abilities and strategic mindset.
Minimum 5 years of experience in electroplating, hard chrome plating, or surface treatment.
Strong knowledge of plating chemistry, equipment, and process control.
Proven experience and understanding of Lockout Tagout, chemical handling, PPE Requirements, and safe operation of relevant tools associated with electroplating.
Experience with ventilation/exhaust systems, air monitoring, and environmental compliance best practices.
Understanding of chemical baths processes, metal deposition, and plating cycles.
Must be able to read and follow plating specs, SOPs, blueprints, and thickness requirements.
Proven experience with NADCAP, AS9100, and other aerospace quality systems.
Demonstrated experience with successful EHS program and regulatory compliance guidelines.
Excellent leadership and mentorship, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

OSHA 30-hour or equivalent safety training.
First-aid and CPR Certification
NADCAP special process auditor or equivalent experience.
Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certification.
Environmental compliance certifications (e.g., RCRA, HAZWOPER).
Chemical Handling Certification.
Familiarity and/or understanding of industry trends, technology, software, and best practices.
A strong passion for firearms, defense technologies, and the shooting sports community is a significant plus.

Responsibilities

Direct daily operations of the electroplating facility, including scheduling, assigning, and monitoring work.
Ensure adherence to aerospace and defense production standards, including NADCAP and AS9100 and customer specifications.
Drive process improvements to enhance throughput, reliability, and cost-efficiency.
Serve as the technical authority on hard chrome plating, including bath chemistry, surface prep, and process control.
Develop and maintain plating procedures and work instructions aligned with aerospace specifications.
Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for plating defects or process deviations.
Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local environmental, health, and safety regulations.
Prepare chemical batches and safely replace plating solutions.
Monitor and maintain plating solution filtration and overall bath quality.
Conduct and document regular audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
Ensure the correct use and mandate of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE).
Collaborate with quality teams to ensure plating meets aerospace and defense specifications.
Regularly use and train team members on quality tools including but not limited to the use of micrometers, gauges, etc..
Support internal and external audits, including NADCAP accreditation and customer inspections.
Maintain documentation and traceability in accordance with defense industry requirements.
Train and mentor technicians and operators in plating techniques, safety protocols, and quality standards.
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Any other duties assigned by Operations Manager.