About this role
Technical Specialist I
Job Description: The Metal Finish Spec Tech I is responsible for the safe, complaint, and efficient execution of production activities within the Metal Finish Lab. This role serves as a technical resource for Metal finish processes, ensuring all work meets strict quality, and Safety Standards. In addition to technical execution, the Metal Finish Spec Tech I is responsible for overseeing the training of shop personnel to ensure technical competency and adherence to process specifications.
The Operations Strategic Capabilities Unit plays a fundamental role in enabling efficient business and program execution – from strategic capital investments, industrial operations and an efficient supply chain, to state-of-the-art manufacturing and test operations and top-notch facilities management.
What You’ll Do:
• Technical Execution & Process Expertise • Perform daily production activities within the Metal Finish Lab in accordance with technical specifications, and work instructions. • Serve as the Solution Expert, monitoring chemical concentrations, managing titration, and ensuring bath stability for all processes. • Provide subject matter expertise and technical oversight for the three primary Lab processes: • Chromate Process: Ensure precise application and compliance with chromate conversion coating specifications. • P2 Etch: Oversee the etching process to ensure proper surface preparation and material removal rates. • Gritblast Process: Manage abrasive blasting operations to achieve required surface profiles and cleanliness.
• Work closely with Program and Engineers to support production requirements and technical needs. • Assist in the development and refinement of process specifications, work standards, and best practices for Metal Finish. • Inspect and verify completed work to ensure full compliance with surface finish and dimensional requirements. • Daily Management • Lead Daily Management of the Metal Finish area to ensure production schedules are met. • Coordinate workflow and resource allocation to optimize throughput and minimize bottlenecks. • Conduct daily equipment and solution checks to ensure operational readiness. • Manage the hand-off between shifts to ensure continuity of technical execution and quality.
• Training Oversight • Oversee and coordinate the training program for Metal Finish personnel to ensure all technicians are qualified and certified in Chromate, P2 Etch, and Gritblast processes. • Lead the onboarding and technical training of new technicians. • Identify skill gaps and support cross-training initiatives to improve team flexibility across different finishing lines. • Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee training and compliance records.
• Safety & Compliance • Safely handle plating chemicals, acids, hazardous materials, and hazardous waste. • Ensure all operations comply with safety, environment (EPA/OSHA), and regulatory requirements. • Promote and enforce proper PPE usage and safe chemical handling practices specific to the metal finishing environment.
• Equipment & Facility Support • Perform and assist with maintenance, preventative maintenance, and operational readiness of plating tanks, ovens, and finishing equipment. • Troubleshoot equipment issues and escalate technical failures to the appropriate channels.
• Documentation & Systems • Maintain required process logs, chemical titration records, materials tracking, and production documentation. • Ensure high levels of data accuracy and traceability for all Metal Finish processes.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule. • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment. • Perform other duties as necessary. On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions: • Work is performed in an office environment, laboratory, cleanroom, or production floor. • Must be able to wear required PPE.
Required Skills and Education: • High School diploma or equivalent plus 3 years or more related experience • Each higher-level related degree, i.e., Bachelor’s or Master’s, may substitute for two years of related experience. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education. • A current, active Secret security clearance is required. • Experience in a manufacturing or Metal Finish processes. • Proven technical proficiency in Metal Finish processes and hazardous chemical handling. • Ability to read, interpret, and execute complex technical specifications and process documentation. • Excellent communication skills with the ability to teach and mentor others. • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. #LI-EP1
Preferred Skills and Education: • Relevant Technical certifications • Experience in developing training materials or qualifying technicians in Metal Finish. • Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience.
About BAE Systems, Inc.: BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Benefits Information: Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
Intern Benefits: Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits, but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance.
Please note: Some benefits may be different for union employees that are governed by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or for positions covered by a wage law called the McNamara-O’Hara Service Contract Act (SCA).