SME - Surface Treatment Process Engineering

Role overview

Responsibilities

• Own and optimize anodizing, chromate conversion, E-coating, and primer/topcoat processes for aerospace and defense components.
• Control bath chemistry, pH, conductivity, temperature, current density, curing conditions, and coating thickness.
• Develop automated chemical dosing and mixing systems for stable baths, consistent processes, and efficient chemical use.
• Ensure MIL-STD, ASTM, ISO, and NADCAP compliance using controls, PFMEA, inspections, and qualification protocols.
• Lead testing of adhesion, hardness, DFT, corrosion resistance, salt spray, and environmental durability; troubleshoot defects and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Improve capability and reduce defects, chemical use, waste, cycle time, and operating costs.
• Support commissioning automated treatment lines with tanks, rectifiers, filtration, curing ovens, conveyors, robotics, and digital monitoring; integrate masking and parts-handling automation.
• Define maintenance and reliability strategies; collaborate on coating selection, process development, capacity, bottlenecks, supplier qualification, and audits.
• Train and advise production and quality teams on processes, standards, and inspection practices.

Requirements

• Degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 12 years of practical experience in surface finishing and industrial coating; aerospace, defense, or another high-reliability sector is ideal.
• Extensive knowledge of anodizing, chromate conversion, E-coating, and wet paint systems, including primer and topcoat applications.
• Strong understanding of corrosion protection, surface preparation, coating adhesion, and material compatibility.
• Proficiency in process control, quality management, and root cause analysis, with demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and improve coating processes.