1

Abrasive Blaster Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hamilton Tanks is looking for a skilled blaster to abrade steel tanks to remove adhering scale, paint, grease, tar, rust, and dirt, and to impart specified finish, using abrasive-blasting media. A ...

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 ...

Be Seen First

Blaster

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

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 ...

Blaster

Sunshine, LA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Must have a minimum of 6 months experience in general abrasive blasting Must be able to work effectively and efficiently both as a member of a team and independently Able to follow or verbal ...

Perform abrasive blasting and surface preparation activities. * Remove rust, corrosion, old coatings, and contaminants. * Prepare surfaces for industrial coatings and protective paint systems.

Industrial Blaster

Houston, TX

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Perform abrasive blasting and surface preparation activities. * Remove rust, corrosion, old coatings, and contaminants. * Prepare surfaces for industrial coatings and protective paint systems.

Sandblaster

Pickens, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Sandblaster / Abrasive Blaster (Structural Steel) Location: Pickens, SC Company: Bridge Brothers Job Type: Full-Time Why Bridge Brothers? Bridge Brothers designs and manufactures custom structural ...

Blaster Painter

Carencro, LA · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

This position involves the application of abrasive blasting techniques to clean, smooth, or roughen surfaces, followed by the precise application of paint or coatings according to industry standards ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Abrasive Blaster information

See salary details

$13

$20

$34

How much do abrasive blaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for abrasive blaster in the United States is $20.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money do sandblasters make?

Abrasive blasters typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, with experienced workers or those in specialized industries earning higher wages. Wages can vary based on location, skill level, and certification, and the job often requires physical stamina and knowledge of safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Abrasive Blaster position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Abrasive Blaster, you need knowledge of surface preparation techniques, manual dexterity, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with blasting equipment, safety gear, and industry-specific certifications such as OSHA training are often required. Dependability, the ability to follow safety protocols closely, and strong teamwork skills make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial because they ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality surface treatment in various industrial settings.

What are the typical working conditions for an Abrasive Blaster?

Abrasive Blasters usually work in industrial or construction environments, which can include shipyards, fabrication shops, or outdoor job sites. The job often involves wearing full protective equipment due to the dusty and noisy nature of the work, and shifts may include evenings or weekends depending on project deadlines. Teamwork is essential, as you'll frequently coordinate with painters, welders, or other tradespeople to complete surface preparation effectively. While the tasks can be physically demanding, many employers provide training and opportunities for advancement into supervisory or specialized coating roles.

How much do sandblasters earn?

Abrasive blasters typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, with experienced workers or those in specialized industries earning higher wages. Wages can vary based on location, skill level, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they handle.

What is an Abrasive Blaster job?

An Abrasive Blaster is responsible for cleaning, smoothing, or preparing surfaces by using high-pressure equipment to propel abrasive materials, such as sand, glass beads, or steel grit. This process removes rust, paint, corrosion, or other contaminants from metal, wood, concrete, or other surfaces. Abrasive blasters work in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. They must follow safety protocols to protect themselves from harmful dust and debris. Proper use of protective gear, equipment maintenance, and surface preparation techniques are essential parts of the job.

Can you make good money sandblasting?

Abrasive blasters can earn a decent income, with wages often ranging from $15 to $25 per hour depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled blasters with certifications and experience in industrial settings may earn higher wages and overtime pay, making it a potentially profitable trade.

How much does a paint blaster make?

Ablative blasters, or abrasive blasters, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in surface preparation can earn higher wages, especially in industrial or specialized settings.
More about Abrasive Blaster jobs
What cities are hiring for Abrasive Blaster jobs? Cities with the most Abrasive Blaster job openings:
What states have the most Abrasive Blaster jobs? States with the most job openings for Abrasive Blaster jobs include:
Infographic showing various Abrasive Blaster job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,637 per year, or $21 per hour.
Abrasive Blaster

$32.77 - $36.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


General Dynamics NASSCO rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Abrasive Blaster
Apply now

Date: Jul 16, 2026

Location:San Diego, CA, US, 92113

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


Nearest Major Market: San Diego
Job Segment: Coating, Security Clearance, Business Process, Supply, Manufacturing, Government, Management, Operations

Apply now

What General Dynamics NASSCO employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom