Electrochem Etch Operator I

About RTCA:

RTCA is a precision aerospace and defense manufacturing group built on decades of hands-on machining expertise, with roots spanning more than 50 years. We support mission-critical commercial and government aerospace programs across North America through four U.S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 200+ CNC machines and a team of 500+ professionals. Unlike large organizations where roles can be narrow, RTCA offers hands-on ownership and real visibility – you understand how your work supports the team, the operation, and the end customer. Our flat structure allows employees to take initiative, grow their skills, and have their contributions recognized, while still providing the stability, advanced technology, and meaningful work of an established aerospace manufacturer. At RTCA, we believe in teamwork, excellence, and delivering with pride. One Team! One Mission!

How You’ll Make an Impact:

The Electrochemical Etch Operator applies permanent identification markings to aerospace components using electrochemical etching equipment, ensuring every part number, serial number, and lot code is accurate, legible, correctly located, and traceable. Working from travelers, drawings, and customer marking specifications, the Operator partners with Assembly, Quality, and Production to keep marked hardware compliant and moving on schedule.

What you’ll be doing as an Electrochemical Etch Operator:

• Working a full-time, onsite position at our Sumner, WA location.
• Set up and operate electrochemical etch marking equipment, including power units, marking heads, and electrolyte pads, to apply part numbers, serial numbers, lot codes, and other identification.
• Review travelers, drawings, specifications, and customer requirements to determine marking content, location, size, and method.
• Create, order, and maintain marking stencils, and verify stencil content before use.
• Select the correct electrolyte, power setting (AC/DC), and marking time for each material, including aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and nickel alloys.
• Prepare part surfaces before marking and neutralize, clean, and dry parts after marking to prevent corrosion or residue.
• Verify part numbers, serial numbers, lot numbers, and revision levels prior to marking to prevent mix-ups.
• Inspect completed markings for legibility, depth, location, and appearance, and identify and segregate nonconforming parts.
• Handle finished aerospace components carefully to prevent damage, contamination, or loss of traceability.
• Handle, store, and dispose of electrolytes and neutralizers safely, following SDS requirements and using appropriate PPE.
• Maintain accurate production, traceability, and travel documentation.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and keep the marking area clean and organized.
• Coordinate with Quality, Assembly, and Production to resolve marking questions or discrepancies.
• Take on tasks outside normal duties when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, drawings, and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when verifying part numbers, serial numbers, and lot numbers.
• Ability to follow chemical handling, safety requirements, and PPE use.
• Basic computer skills for entering production and traceability information.

Preferred Qualifications (Education, skills and experience):

• Experience with electrochemical etching, laser marking, engraving, stamping, or other part-marking methods.
• Aerospace, defense, medical device, or other regulated manufacturing experience.
• Familiarity with marking specifications such as MIL-STD-130, AS478, or customer-specific marking requirements.
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and aerospace traceability requirements.
• Experience creating marking stencils.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Choice of medical plan options, including a no-cost employee-only coverage plan
• HSA-eligible health plan with employer contributions
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) plan with up to a 6% QACA company match
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and nine (9) paid company holidays
• Shift differentials for applicable off-shifts
• Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance

The Electrochem Etch Operator I Compensation range for onsite Washington applicants is $20-23 per hour commensurate with experience. Some shifts may include shift differential pay rates. Other site ranges may differ. Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required.

RTCA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants wishing to receive information on RTCA’s Affirmative Action Plans, or those requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, should contact the RTCA Human Resources Department. Qualified individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to access or use our career center due to a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources.

Candidates will receive consideration without discrimination in accordance with Article 9, Chapter XVIII of the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.