Engineer I Electroplating

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for an Engineer to work within our Micro-Machining Group. This position, working under general supervision and with ongoing review, supports the engineering and technician staff in electroplating operations, chemical processing, quality control inspection, metrology, and packaging of precision micro-machined components produced for high energy density plasma physics experiments conducted by National Laboratory scientists.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform electroplating operations with various metals including gold, copper, and other advanced materials on small (<4 mm) micro-machined components per standard operating procedures in small batch production scale quantities.
• Execute associated chemical etching and leaching processes to prepare surfaces and achieve specified coating requirements.
• Maintain electroplating bath chemistry within established parameters for optimal processing, including monitoring pH, temperature, current density, and chemical composition.
• Troubleshoot plating defects and adjust process parameters to achieve desired coating quality and thickness.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings to understand component specifications, plating requirements, and dimensional tolerances.
• Determine appropriate plating thickness, material selection, and process parameters based on drawing specifications.
• Plan production sequences and implement process improvements to enhance reliability and efficiency.
• Inspect plated components for coating thickness, uniformity, adhesion, and surface finish.
• Perform dimensional metrology using precision measurement equipment including measuring microscopy, optical profilometry, and other measurement techniques as required.
• Conduct comprehensive quality control inspections of components to established ISO 9001 Quality Assurance procedures.
• Ensure compliance with Quality Control documentation and maintain accurate records.
• Package inspected components according to specifications for shipment to customers.
• Document findings and implemented solutions; communicate results to project staff.
• Record and summarize production and test data.
• Prepare tables, plots, and written reports; present information to peers and supervisors in oral and written formats.
• Revise production data recording for accuracy and amend procedures to improve yield, efficiency, and product quality.
• Assist in the installation and assembly of precision equipment and metrology stations.
• Support senior staff in the analysis and recording of data for various micro-machined component processes.
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices, particularly when handling chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
• Understanding of electrochemistry principles, including electrode kinetics, current distribution, and mass transport.
• Knowledge of metal plating processes and bath chemistry management.
• Familiarity with chemical etching and surface preparation techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
• Basic understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theory.
• Ability to follow and apply engineering knowledge, adapt standard techniques, and utilize required diagnostics, tools, and equipment while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
• Strong attention to detail for handling, inspecting, and packaging small precision components.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance.

• Experience with precision metrology and measurement techniques.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Knowledge of advanced plating materials and emerging coating technologies.

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Good communication, computer, and interpersonal skills to enable effective interface with other professionals, produce appropriate documentation, and present results to internal audiences.
• Must be able to work both independently and on a team.
• Able to work extended hours as required.

Job Category

Engineering

Experience Level

Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Workstyle

Onsite

Full-Time/Part-Time

Full-Time Salary

Pay Range Low

62,510

Pay Range High

105,628

Travel Percentage Required

0% - 25%

Relocation Assistance Provided?

No

US Citizenship Required?

Yes

Clearance Required?

Desired

Clearance Level

DOE - Q