Sandblasting Operator

Job Title:

Sandblasting Operator

The Sandblasting Operator prepares metal surfaces for coating or repair by safely removing rust, paint, grease, and corrosion using high-pressure abrasive blasting equipment. This role involves working with heavy machinery, setting up and maintaining sandblasting systems and portable air compressors, and handling various abrasive materials to achieve the required surface finish. The position also supports general labor, basic assembly, and related tasks in an automotive or aerospace manufacturing environment.

• Prepare metal surfaces for coating or repair by removing rust, paint, grease, and corrosion using high-pressure abrasive blasting equipment.
• Set up, calibrate, operate, and maintain sandblasting equipment and portable air compressors in a safe and efficient manner.
• Load, unload, handle, and properly dispose of abrasive materials such as sand, glass beads, and steel shot according to the required finish and safety procedures.
• Operate heavy machinery and related equipment associated with sandblasting and surface preparation tasks.
• Follow basic drawings, blueprints, or work instructions with support to ensure correct preparation and finishing of parts.
• Assist with general labor tasks including basic assembly, painting preparation, and use of hand tools and basic power tools as needed.
• Apply basic MIG welding and fitting skills where required for repair or fabrication tasks, following guidance and work instructions.
• Inspect prepared surfaces to verify cleanliness, profile, and quality before subsequent coating or assembly operations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including proper storage and labeling of materials and equipment.
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety procedures related to noise, fumes, particulates, and moving equipment.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to coordinate workflow, report issues, and support continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate reliable attendance, follow directions carefully, and maintain a strong focus on safety throughout all tasks.

• 1–3 years of hands‑on sandblasting experience.
• Experience working in automotive or aerospace environments, including handling large items such as bus frames or similarly sized structures.
• Basic mechanical aptitude with a willingness to learn assembly processes and related production tasks.
• Ability to safely use hand tools and basic power tools with instruction.
• Ability to read and follow basic drawings, blueprints, or work instructions with support.
• Good attention to detail and the ability to follow directions accurately.
• Reliable attendance and a strong focus on safety in all work activities.
• Ability to set up, operate, and maintain sandblasting equipment and portable air compressors.
• Capability to work with heavy machinery in a production or manufacturing setting.
• Hand‑eye coordination suitable for precise welding, fitting, and surface preparation operations.
• Good visual acuity, including color and depth perception, for inspecting surfaces, welds, and reading drawings.
• Ability to hear alarms, signals, and communicate effectively in a noisy environment.
• Physical ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment up to 40 lbs, with occasional heavier lifting using assistance.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and squat for extended periods during a shift.

• Experience in automotive manufacturing, automotive assembly, or automotive repair environments.
• Exposure to MIG welding and the ability to perform basic MIG welding tasks under guidance.
• Experience reading and working from blueprints in a production setting.
• Background in general labor, assembly, painting preparation, or related industrial work.
• Comfort working with welding‑related fumes, dust, and airborne particles while using appropriate PPE.
• Flexibility to adjust to changing priorities, tasks, and production needs, including occasional weekend work.

This opportunity offers a clear path from contract to hire, providing stability and long‑term career potential for individuals who demonstrate strong performance…