Manual Hone Operator Precision Metal Finishing (Chrome & Nickel)

Job Description

Manual Hone Operator – Precision Metal Finishing (Chrome & Nickel)

Location: Houston, TX 77003

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Manual Hone Operators skilled in precision ID finishing on chrome-plated and sulfamate nickel-plated parts.

This is not CNC production or oilfield pipe honing—it’s precision part repair and metal finishing, where concentricity, diameter, and surface finish must meet tight tolerances on hydraulic and engineered components.

They utilize Ohio Tool Works manual power-stroke hones — not CNC or automatic honing systems — requiring skilled operator control of feed, stone pressure, and stroke to achieve final size, geometry, and surface finish.

Key Responsibilities

Operate manual power-stroke honing machines (Ohio Tool Works) to achieve specified diameters, finishes, and geometries on hydraulic rods, cylinders, and sleeves.

Use bore gauges, micrometers, and surface finish testers to verify accuracy and surface quality within tolerance.

Adjust stone pressure, feed rate, and stroke to achieve target geometry and surface finish.

Hone base materials and plated parts (chrome and sulfamate nickel) with controlled stock removal to maintain dimensional accuracy, surface cleanup, and plating thickness.

Perform daily maintenance and cleanliness checks per standard operating procedure.

Work closely with Grinding, Chrome, and QC & Shipping departments to ensure dimensional targets are achieved before and after plating.

Required Experience

Minimum 3 years of manual honing experience in a precision machining or metal finishing environment.

Strong understanding of ID geometry correction, surface finish control, and tolerance holding.

Ability to read blueprints, interpret finish callouts (Ra, Rz), and hold 0.001" tolerances.

Experience with hydraulic cylinder components, industrial repair, or rebuild shops preferred.

Familiarity with chrome and nickel-plating processes a plus.

Comfortable working around industrial chemicals and metal finishing processes (chrome and nickel).

Ideal Candidate

A hands-on craftsman who takes pride in precision, surface quality, and repeatability.

Prefers manual process control over CNC automation.

Understands that the goal is fit and function, not high-volume output.

Reliable, safety-focused, and capable of working independently or in a small production team.

Shift / Environment

Full-time, day shift (Monday–Friday).

Industrial plating and precision machining environment.

Skill Level-Hourly Rate

EXPERT$37.00

SPEC+$35.00

SPECIALIST$33.00

TECH+$31.00

TECH$29.50

A+$27.50

A$26.00

B+$24.00

B$22.50

C+$21.25

C$20.00

Pay rate determined based on skills, experience, and performance review.

Training & Evaluation

Training evaluation method: direct observation (minimum four weeks).

Continuous performance reviews to ensure quality and adherence to standards.

*Note: This employer values rehabilitation and opportunity. Candidates with non-violent, non-theft felony convictions are encouraged to apply.

Full-time