High‑Vacuum PVD Coating Operator

Ionbond - IHI Group; West Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Ionbond, The Surface Engineers, in West Chicago, IL seeks a High‑Vacuum PVD Coating Operator to operate a high‑vacuum deposition system, load precision components, and ensure process parameters are met for aerospace and automotive applications.

You will monitor cycles, perform light maintenance, inspect coatings, document results, and work with supervisors to hit production targets while upholding safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Manufacturing experience preferred (3+ years).
• Mechanical/electrical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are a plus.
• Read English instructions and documentation clearly.

Responsibilities

• Review customer order specs and organize parts and fixtures accordingly.
• Prepare, load, and unload precision-machined components into high-vacuum PVD coating chambers.
• Start, operate, and monitor vacuum deposition cycles with parameters in spec.

Skills

Troubleshooting skills

Mechanical troubleshooting skills

Precision measurement & inspection

Machine setups for production runs

Job description

High‑Vacuum PVD Coating Operator — West Chicago, IL Join Ionbond — The Surface Engineers™

Imagine starting your shift by powering up a high‑vacuum deposition system, checking process parameters, and preparing precision components destined for aerospace, automotive, and other high‑performance applications. As a High‑Vacuum PVD Coating Operator at Ionbond, you’ll turn engineered surfaces into competitive advantages.

About Ionbond

Ionbond delivers advanced thin‑film coating solutions for aerospace, medical, food contact, automotive, decorative, tooling, and fuel cell applications. Our portfolio spans PVD, PACVD, and CVD technologies. With 34 job coating centers across 15 countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, we are part of the global IHI Group and one of the world’s largest coating networks.

A day in the life

• Review customer order specs and quality standards, then organize parts and fixtures accordingly.
• Prepare, load, and unload precision‑machined components into high‑vacuum PVD coating chambers with exceptional care.
• Start, operate, and closely monitor vacuum deposition cycles; perform periodic checks to ensure parameters remain in spec.
• Carry out light preventive maintenance and cleaning of chamber interiors and work areas.
• De‑fixture batch loads after processing and conduct visual inspections to verify coating quality.
• Collaborate with supervisors and teammates to meet production targets and on‑time delivery.
• Handle other related tasks that keep operations running smoothly.

Schedule and workplace

• Hours: Monday–Friday, 3:00 PM–11:30 PM; occasional weekend work may be required.
• Physical: Ability to sit and/or stand for up to 8‑hour shifts; fine manual dexterity to handle precision parts; read English instructions and documentation, including fonts as small as 8‑point.

What you bring

• Manufacturing experience preferred (3+ years). Mechanical/electrical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are a plus.
• Comfort with production equipment, tooling, and shop practices.
• Clear, effective communication and a steady approach in a fast‑paced setting.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.

Proficiencies we value

• Troubleshooting skills
• Mechanical troubleshooting skills
• Precision measurement & inspection
• Machine setups for production runs

Growth and rewards

We empower people to reach their potential through global and local opportunities in an innovative, team‑oriented environment.

• International and local growth opportunities
• Diverse, collaborative culture focused on innovation and service
• Competitive pay based on experience and education
• Medical, dental & vision with affordable premiums and deductibles
• Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care)
• Life insurance
• Short‑term & long‑term disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401k Safe Harbor Retirement Account plus company match

Note: The role may begin on a contingent basis through a staffing agency, with eligibility for regular full‑time employment after 90–180 days based on production needs and performance.

Compliance & notices

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and successfully complete a pre‑employment criminal background check and physical screening.