Confined Space Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Company

US Coatings, LLC (USC) specializes in providing interior tank coating, cleaning and surface preparation services for various marine vessels including cargo (advanced chemical linings), ballast and freshwater tanks. Additionally, USC is an applicator of advanced coatings and protective systems for marine hulls, decks, and superstructures. Founded in 2005, the company has established a strong reputation as a customer-focused, value-added service provider to the marine industry.

We offer competitive salaries and full range of benefits including: medical, dental, vision, 401K (100% match up to 4% eligible compensation) and 100% immediate vesting, basic and supplemental life insurance, short-term and long-term disability as well as other benefits.

Job Summary: US Coatings is currently seeking a Marine Coatings Confined Space 1st Class Blaster. This position performs marine surface preparation on vessels and shipboard structures, often in tanks and tightly configured confined spaces, to achieve specified customer requirements for preservation/coating systems. Work includes abrasive blasting and pressure/water blasting methods, protection/containment, and rigorous adherence to shipyard safety and environmental controls.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform abrasive blasting and/or water blasting (including high-pressure pressure washing and UHP/hydro blasting as assigned) to remove coatings, corrosion, scale, and contaminants per job specifications.
• Prepare surfaces to required degrees of cleanliness and profile consistent with recognized surface preparation standards (e.g., SSPC surface prep standards as applicable to the work package).
• Select and control appropriate blast media and operating parameters (pressure, nozzle configuration, abrasive flow) to meet specification while minimizing rework and waste.
• Set up, operate, and troubleshoot blasting equipment (blast pots/units, hoses, nozzles, compressors) and associated preservation tools with minimal supervision.
• Install and remove masking, shielding, and blast protection to safeguard sensitive ship systems, machinery, and adjacent surfaces; maintain protection integrity during the job.
• Build/maintain containments and environmental controls (as required), including ventilation and dust-collection/exhaust systems to manage airborne dust and capture contaminants.
• Work safely and effectively in confined spaces (e.g., tanks/voids), including crawling/climbing through access openings, maintaining situational awareness around other workers, and following entry requirements and permits as directed.
• Execute daily equipment and PPE checks; properly use and maintain required PPE (air-fed blast hood/respirator systems as assigned, eye/hand protection, protective suits, fall protection).
• Follow shipyard safety practices and hazard controls (including confined space procedures and lockout/tagout where applicable) and stop/report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Coordinate with foreman/supervision, quality personnel, and craft teammates to meet spec checkpoints/inspection hold points and production milestones.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on blasting lines/hoses and related equipment; keep tools, blast area, and worksite clean and organized.
• Accurately follow written and verbal work instructions, including safety documentation, job hazard analyses, and manufacturer guidance.
• Support other preservation tasks as assigned (e.g., assisting with coating prep/cleanup activities when needed) while maintaining primary accountability for blasting quality and safety.

Key Requirements, Education, and Experience:

• 3+ years in marine or industrial surface preparation; "1st class" level ability to work independently and complete tasks with little supervision.
• Working knowledge of SSPC surface preparation standards and ability to blast to specified degrees of cleanliness/profile.
• Proficiency with abrasive blasting systems and/or high-pressure washing equipment.
• Strong understanding of shipyard safety expectations, including confined space entry, hazard controls, and proper PPE selection/use for blasting operations.
• Ability to set up and maintain ventilation/dust control methods used during abrasive blasting operations.
• Ability to read and execute work specifications and comply with inspection/checkpoint requirements and documentation (including product data sheets and SDS).
• Demonstrated equipment troubleshooting/maintenance capability for blasting hoses, nozzles, fittings, and associated preservation tooling.
• Ability to work extended periods in tight spaces, crawl/climb through access openings, and work around other blasters in close proximity.
• Comfort working at heights/elevated staging/manlifts and in typical shipyard environments (noise, dust, heat, varying weather).
• Preferably, relevant certifications, such as SSPC C7 abrasive blaster certification.
• Professional reliability (attendance, teamwork, communication) and a consistent safety-first mindset.
• Must have prior knowledge and experience in shipyard operations and working in confined spaces.
• Must have strong knowledge in proper operation and safety protocols working with various blasting equipment, such as sandblasters, UHP water blasters, pots, pumps, and hoppers, various hand tools and power tools.
• Must be proficient in and committed to all safety aspects of assigned tasks, including the proper usage of PPE, such as harnesses, hard hats, eye protection, gloves, and respiratory protection.
• Must be able to safely lift work materials, up to 100 lbs.

Travel: Must be willing to travel to job sites as current jobs require.

EEO Statement:

US Coatings (USC), affords equal opportunity in employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, pregnancy, familial status, disability status, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected under Federal, State or Local law. US Coatings (USC), is an Equal Opportunity Employer.