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Abrasive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Abrasive Blast Operator

Mexico, MO

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Abrasive Blast Operator ID: 1020 Department: Paint Date Posted: 03/05/2026 Location: Mexico, MO More about this job > Description Honest - Ethical - Responsible - Respectful - Trustworthy Are you ...

The Abrasive Blast Technician is responsible for making sure products are processed to the proper procedures and standards as specified by the route cards with or without direct supervision. They are ...

$16 - $19.75/hr

In this handson role, you will test and inspect abrasive bricks for quality, hardness, and dimensional accuracy using boretesting machines and related equipment. This position is ideal for someone ...

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Minimum of 2 years of abrasive blasting experience in a naval, marine, ship repair, or shipbuilding environment * Must be willing and able to commit to starting the project in August * Must be ...

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Abrasive information

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$14

$23

$28

How much do abrasive jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for abrasive in the United States is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Abrasive Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Abrasive Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, attention to detail, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with abrasive machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA training are typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help operators handle issues and maintain workflow efficiently. These competencies are vital for ensuring product quality, workplace safety, and consistent production output in manufacturing environments.

What are abrasives and what do they do?

Abrasives are materials, often minerals, used to shape or finish a workpiece by rubbing away part of its surface through friction. Commonly used in sanding, grinding, polishing, and cleaning, abrasives help smooth rough surfaces or remove unwanted material. They come in various forms such as sandpaper, grinding wheels, and powders, and are essential in industries like metalworking, woodworking, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between Abrasive vs Grinder?

AspectAbrasiveGrinder
Primary RoleMaterial finishing and surface preparation using abrasive materialsMachining and shaping materials by removing excess material with grinding wheels
Work EnvironmentFactories, workshops, construction sitesFactories, workshops, manufacturing plants
CertificationsMay require safety and operation certificationsLikewise, safety and machine operation certifications
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, construction, and repair industriesPrimarily in manufacturing and metalworking industries

While both Abrasive and Grinder involve material removal, Abrasive refers to the process or tools used for surface finishing, whereas Grinder is a specific machine used to perform grinding operations. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right equipment or job focus within manufacturing and construction sectors.

What safety protocols should I expect to follow as an Abrasive Operator in a manufacturing environment?

As an Abrasive Operator, you'll be expected to adhere to strict safety protocols, including wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety goggles, and respirators to guard against dust and flying particles. Regular equipment inspections and proper machine maintenance are essential to prevent malfunctions. You'll also participate in safety briefings and training sessions, and must follow facility guidelines for handling and disposing of abrasive materials. Maintaining a clean and organized workspace is crucial for minimizing hazards and ensuring a safe working environment.
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What cities are hiring for Abrasive jobs? Cities with the most Abrasive job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Abrasive jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Abrasive jobs are:
Infographic showing various Abrasive job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,328 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Abrasive Blaster

$32.77 - $36.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Abrasive Blaster

Date: May 19, 2026

Location:San Diego, CA, US, 92113

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Company: National Steel and Shipbuilding Com

Job Posting End Date: Until Filled

Shift: All

Security Clearance: No Clearance

Job Summary

Prepares surfaces using a propelling a stream of abrasive material against a surface under high pressure (100 to 120 psi) to roughen a smooth surface, to remove surface contaminants, and to remove adhering scale, paint and/or multi-layer rust. Works on Ships at heights and confined areas, at Blast and paint Facility and/or in Paint Pit, using air feed respirator. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.

Qualification Standards

One to two years experience on abrasive blasting activities or SSPC C-7 Certification accredited. Must be knowledgeable in surface preparation procedures. Must be able to set up and use abrasive blast gear and equipment. Must be able to operate high reaching equipment. Must be able to work at heights, in confined spaces, and on any shift. Must be able to hear warning signals and read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations and warnings.

Essential Job Tasks

  1. Install protective masking and containment systems.
  2. Set up and operate abrasive blast equipment.
  3. Perform abrasive blast surface preparation to the specified degree of cleanliness.
  4. Set up, operate, and maintain dust collection system.
  5. Set up and operate blast media recovery, which includes final cleaning of surface prior to coating application.
  6. Other job duties as may be assigned relevant to the trade.

Materials, Tools Equipment, Work Aids

Abrasive blast media, ventilation ducting, hand tools, 50' long blast hose, 10' long whip hose, breathing air hose, air purifying devices, abrasive blast respirator, blast equipment , blast media recovery equipment, dust collection and dehumidification equipment, high reach equipment, NASSCO approve retractable knife, cleaning equipment, cut resistant gloves and other personal protective equipment.

Physical/Mental Involvement

Lifting/carrying metal and equipment parts up to 50 lbs (frequent) to 100 lbs. assisted lift. Controlling blast hose at pressures of 120-140 psi, propelling blast media at a velocity of 450 mph against the surface. Tolerating breathing supply and wearing multi-layered clothing. Standing, balancing, walking, climbing ladders or equipment, reaching above shoulder or out in front, manual dexterity, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, seeing, hearing and occasionally lowering self into confined spaces, crawling through small openings and working in reclined positions, as needed. Working in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Maintaining general safety awareness and avoid hazards commonly present in employees work area.

Marginal Job Tasks

Works with the General Services Department in erecting and dismantling scaffold, water evacuation, load out and grooming compartments. Works with the Paint Department in performing surface preparation and painting application activities. General housekeeping required in work areas. May be required to attend safety, quality and/or process improvement meetings.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to small particles of abrasive materials, airborne dust, toxic chemicals, fumes, odors, gases, various climates and temperatures, and low ventilation conditions, all of which can cause discomfort and/or respiratory difficulties. Exposure to moving machines and mechanical parts, static shock, and high levels of constant noise.

PAYSCALE

$32.77 - $36.12

This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the hourly range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.

General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.

To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.

Call (619) 544-8511 or emailnasscohr@nassco.com.This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.

NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer


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