Electroplating Process Engineer at Amphenol in Springfield, MO

Summary The Process Engineer will be responsible for the optimization, maintenance, and any new development of electroplating processes, ensuring high-quality surface finishes on a variety of metal components. This role requires a foundation in chemical/electrical/mechanical engineering, materials science, statistics, or a related field, as well as a foundational knowledge of chemistry, process troubleshooting, and laboratory procedures. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Improve electroplating processes for various metals (e.g., nickel, gold, silver, chrome, zinc, copper). Optimized electroless plating processes to improve coating uniformity, reduce chemical consumption, and enhance overall process efficiency and product quality. Conduct root cause analysis and resolve plating defects such as blistering, poor adhesion, thickness, roughness, or discoloration. Perform routine analytical testing (pH, conductivity, metal concentration, etc.) and adjust chemical compositions accordingly. Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and plating process documentation. Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations related to chemical handling and waste disposal for any newly developed process. Collaborate with R&D, quality control, and production teams to support new product introductions and continuous improvement initiatives. Specify and help maintain plating equipment, rectifiers, tanks, filters, and agitation systems. Stay updated on industry best practices, new technologies, and emerging surface treatment techniques. Uphold Positronic’s standards of integrity, quality, and operational excellence. Identify hazards in the workplace and report them to management and/or the safety coordinator. Collaborate with the EHS department to meet local, state, and federal regulatory requirements, including OSHA, NFPA, DNR, EPA, and Amphenol sustainability practices. Work with the Quality department to ensure compliance with AS9100 certification standards. Comply with all company policies and procedures. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related STEM field. 1 to 2 years of related experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Physical

Long periods of sitting with occasional standing and walking. May require bending, kneeling, reaching, pushing, and pulling. Occasional lifting up to 20 lbs; rarely up to 50 lbs. Frequent computer use and repetitive motion. PPE includes safety glasses and gloves when handling chemicals.

Working Conditions Work is performed in a chemical lab environment with frequent exposure to fumes. Involves small parts handling under magnification. Proper PPE is required. Competencies Knowledge

Understanding of electroplating chemistry, process engineering, and quality systems. Working knowledge of AS9100 standards, SPC tools, and root cause analysis. Understanding of manufacturing scheduling and cost control. Knowledge of regulatory compliance in industrial chemical operations.

Skills

Strong organizational and time management skills. Skilled in data-driven process evaluation and training implementation. Effective communicator across technical and non-technical teams. Prefered leadership and team development abilities.

Abilities

Leadership and adaptability in a fast-paced environment. Strong reasoning skills and attention to process variability. Visual and oral communication clarity for training and coaching.