Electroplating Workers

The earnings of electroplaters vary widely depending on skills and experience, the type of work, geographical location, and other factors. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) reports that the median hourly wage of platers in May 2023 was $19.11, or $39,740 annually for full-time work. The top 10 percent earned $57,550 and the lowest 10 percent earned $30,730.

The DOL reports the following mean annual earnings for plating and coating machine setters, operators, and tenders-metal and plastic by employer:

• federal government: $63,380
• aerospace product and parts manufacturing: $62,920
• semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing: $45,830
• iron and steel mills and ferroalloy manufacturing: $43,530
• alumina and aluminum production and processing manufacturing: $43,350
• steel product manufacturing from purchased steel: $41,170
• coating, engraving, heat treating, and allied activities: $40,770

Many electroplaters are paid according to wage scales that are established by agreements between unions and company management. In general, most companies offer paid vacations, holidays, and sick days and health insurance. Some companies provide tuition assistance programs, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans.

Helpers and entry-level workers without any technical training start at comparatively low wages and receive raises at regular intervals throughout their training until their earnings approach those of skilled electroplaters.