Sandblaster

The Sandblast Operator prepares metal trailers and parts for painting by performing detailed surface preparation using air-powered sandblasting equipment, grinders, needle guns, and other hand and power tools. This role focuses on ensuring all surfaces are clean, smooth, and free of defects prior to paint application, while also identifying and marking weld and quality issues. The position works on 1st shift in a fabrication shop environment and may include operating a forklift to move materials within the shop when needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform paint preparation duties on trailers and parts using air-powered sandblasting equipment, grinders, needle guns, and other hand and power tools.
• Remove weld spatter, excess weld material, sharp edges, and other surface imperfections to ensure parts are fully prepared for paint application.
• Inspect each item thoroughly to identify mis-welds and other quality defects on trailers and components.
• Mark and communicate weld and quality issues clearly so they can be corrected before painting.
• Use sandblasting techniques to clean and profile surfaces according to shop standards and paint requirements.
• Carry out prepping and sanding tasks to achieve a smooth, consistent finish on all assigned parts.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment, including hearing protection, safety glasses, safety boots with metatarsal guards, face shield, and respirator when needed.
• Operate a forklift, when required, to move trailers, parts, and materials safely around the shop.
• Maintain tools and equipment in good working order and report any maintenance or safety concerns promptly.
• Work collaboratively with welders and other shop personnel to support production schedules and team goals.
• Keep the work area organized, clean, and free of hazards to support a safe and efficient fabrication environment.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of grinding and prepping experience in an industrial setting.
• Hands-on experience with sandblasting in a production or fabrication environment.
• Proficiency using power tools such as grinders, needle guns, and other hand and power tools for surface preparation.
• Ability to perform detailed paint prep, including sanding and cleaning surfaces to required standards.
• Skill in identifying weld spatter, excess welds, sharp edges, and other surface defects and addressing them appropriately.
• Capability to inspect parts and trailers and mark mis-welds and quality defects accurately.
• Comfort working in a fabrication shop environment with heavy equipment and production processes.
• Commitment to following safety procedures and consistently wearing required PPE, including hearing protection, safety glasses, safety boots with metatarsal guards, face shield, and respirator when needed.
• Basic ability to operate a forklift or willingness to learn forklift operation for material movement in the shop.