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: Finishing
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Finishing Supervisor
Compensation:
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.
