Zinc Plating Operator Trainee

Athena Manufacturing; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Athena Manufacturing, LP is seeking a Zinc Plating Operator Trainee to join our entry‑level team. Under supervision you will learn plating, cleaning, inspection and finishing steps to repair and protect steel components according to customer specs.

This role emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement through 2 Second Lean. We value a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and grow within the company.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Manufacturing experience preferred but not required.
• Experience using hand tools or pneumatic tools beneficial.
• Willingness to learn and follow safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Learn zinc plating repair process through on-the-job training.
• Perform visual inspections to identify plating requirements.
• Assist in cleaning, preparing, masking, and processing parts.
• Follow work instructions, drawings, specs, and quality procedures.
• Maintain 5S and Lean practices; keep area safe and organized.

Skills

Basic mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Reading work instructions

Basic computer skills

Safety awareness

Independent work after training

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Pneumatic tools

Hand tools

Pneumatic grinders

Job description

Description

Athena Manufacturing, LP is a career-minded company that cares about our employees and their success. We invest in all employees by providing the training and skills they need to not only be successful in their occupation but also the opportunity to grow and advance within the company.

Overview: The Zinc Plating Operator Trainee is an entry-level manufacturing position responsible for learning Athena's zinc plating processes used to repair and protect steel components in accordance with customer specifications, engineering drawings, and internal quality standards. Under the guidance of experienced team members, this role develops the skills necessary to clean, prepare, plate, inspect, and finish products while maintaining a safe, organized, and quality-focused work environment.

Athena values individuals with a strong work ethic, attention to detail, willingness to learn, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities: (include but not limited to): Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, include and are not limited to the following:

• Learn Athena's localized zinc plating repair process through structured on-the-job training.
• Perform visual inspections of steel components to identify plating requirements and verify plating coverage.
• Assist in cleaning, preparing, masking, and processing parts for plating.
• Follow written work instructions, engineering drawings, specifications, and quality procedures.
• Learn proper chemical handling and post-plating neutralization processes.
• Utilize pneumatic grinders and polishing equipment under supervision to blend and finish plated areas.
• Verify completed work meets appearance and workmanship requirements before moving to the next operation.
• Maintain accurate production documentation as required.
• Keep work area clean and organized using 5S and Lean manufacturing principles.
• Follow all safety requirements including proper PPE usage and chemical handling procedures.
• Communicate quality concerns or process issues to the Fabrication Supervisor or Lead.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications: Minimum Preferred Qualifications, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, include and are not limited to the following:

Education

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Previous manufacturing experience preferred but not required.
• Experience using hand tools or pneumatic tools is beneficial.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to learn manufacturing processes quickly.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to read basic work instructions.
• Basic computer skills.
• Ability to work independently after training.
• Positive attitude and willingness to receive coaching.
• Ability to work safely around chemicals and industrial equipment.

Physical Requirements: Essential physical requirements pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, include and are not limited to the following:

• Ability to stand and walk for 8+ hours per day.
• Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive motions.
• Extended circular and linear arm movements for up to 6+ hours per shift.
• Regular lifting of up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Tools and Technology:

• Ability to safely operate pneumatic grinders and other hand tools.
• Manufacturing environment with exposure to industrial chemicals, metal dust, noise, vibration, and moving equipment.
• Frequent use of personal protective equipment.
• Exposure to varying temperatures depending on production area.

REQUIRED WORK CLOTHING AND PPE: Attire should not interfere with job performance or safety.

• Safety glasses are provided by Athena
• Closed toe safety shoes are required

Athena Manufacturing supports commercial, aerospace, and government customers and is committed to maintaining compliance with applicable information security, export control, and government contract requirements, including the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program.

Certain roles may require access to controlled information, systems, or programs that are subject to U.S. government regulations, including export control requirements. As a result, access to specific work, systems, or data may be restricted to individuals who meet applicable regulatory eligibility requirements, including U.S. Person requirements as defined by federal regulations. Eligibility for such access will be determined prior to assignment and may be re-evaluated as business or regulatory needs change.

At Athena Manufacturing, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement through the principles of 2 Second Lean. This approach encourages all team members to identify and implement small, daily improvements that streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency. We believe that by empowering our employees to take ownership of their workspaces and share their ideas, we can drive innovation, increase productivity, and create a more enjoyable work environment for everyone. Join us as we strive to improve every day, 2 seconds at a time!