1

Sandblast Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sandblast Operator

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$20/hr

Sandblast Operator The Sandblast Operator prepares and finishes metal parts using sandblasting and surface grinding equipment in an aerospace manufacturing environment. This role focuses on cleaning ...

New

Paint/Sandblast Operator

Tucson, AZ

$16.50 - $20/hr

Performs sandblasting for the removal of rust, scale, paint, corrosion and foreign matter from ... Read and apply operating and maintenance manual instructions to maintain equipment. * Operate a ...

Sandblast Operator (3rd Shift)

Houston, TX

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Sandblast Operator (3rd Shift) This role involves operating sandblasting equipment to clean and prepare metal parts that are used to manufacture airplane frames in a large forging and fabrication ...

Paint/ Sandblast Operator

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Performs sandblasting for the removal of rust, scale, paint, corrosion and foreign matter from ... Read and apply operating and maintenance manual instructions to maintain equipment. * Operate a ...

Paint/Sandblast Operator I

Tucson, AZ

$16.50 - $20/hr

Performs sandblasting for the removal of rust, scale, paint, corrosion and foreign matter from ... Read and apply operating and maintenance manual instructions to maintain equipment. * Operate a ...

New

Sandblaster

Groton, CT ยท On-site

$18.92/hr

Sandblast Operator Do you take pride in producing high-quality work while meeting production goals? Are you someone who can work independently and keep operations running smoothly in a fast-paced ...

Position Summary Pro Powder and Paint is seeking an experienced and motivated Sandblast Operator to support the preparation of highquality finished products. This position plays a critical role in ...

Sandblasting Operator

Riverside, CA

$19 - $23/hr

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.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sandblast Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do sandblast operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for sandblast operator in the United States is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sandblast Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sandblast Operator, you need a solid understanding of abrasive blasting techniques, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sandblasting equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and sometimes OSHA safety certifications are typically required. Strong physical stamina, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in demanding environments. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure high-quality surface preparation, maintain workplace safety, and meet project deadlines.

What are some common challenges Sandblast Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Sandblast Operators often encounter challenges such as working in noisy and dusty environments, maintaining consistent quality under tight deadlines, and ensuring proper use and maintenance of safety equipment. To manage these challenges, operators should follow strict safety protocols, use personal protective gear, and participate in regular equipment training. Effective communication with supervisors and team members also helps in quickly resolving any equipment or process issues that arise during daily operations.

What are Sandblast Operators?

Sandblast Operators are skilled workers who use specialized equipment to clean, smooth, or shape surfaces by blasting them with abrasive materials such as sand, glass beads, or other media. Their work is essential in industries like construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair, where preparing surfaces for painting, coating, or finishing is required. Sandblast Operators must follow strict safety procedures and use protective gear to prevent exposure to dust and debris. Their expertise ensures surfaces are properly prepared, helping to maintain the quality and durability of finished products.

What is the difference between Sandblast Operator vs Shot Peening Technician?

AspectSandblast OperatorShot Peening Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operationSame as Sandblast Operator, plus shot peening process knowledge
Work EnvironmentIndustrial blasting booths, outdoor sitesManufacturing plants, aerospace, automotive industries
Industry UsageSurface preparation, cleaningSurface strengthening, fatigue resistance

Both roles involve surface treatment processes in industrial settings, requiring safety training and equipment operation. While Sandblast Operators focus on cleaning and preparing surfaces through abrasive blasting, Shot Peening Technicians specialize in improving material durability by peening surfaces. The roles overlap in certifications and work environments but differ in their specific process and end goals.

More about Sandblast Operator jobs
What states have the most Sandblast Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Sandblast Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Sandblast Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sandblast Operator jobs are:
Sandblast Operator

Sandblast Operator

Aerotek

Torrance, CA โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Job Title: Sandblast Operator

Job Description

The Sandblast Operator prepares and finishes metal parts using sandblasting and surface grinding equipment in an aerospace manufacturing environment. This role focuses on cleaning, coating preparation, and surface finishing of machine components while following documented procedures and maintaining accurate production records.

Responsibilities

  • Operate sandblasting equipment to clean and prepare metal and machine parts for coating and spray applications.
  • Perform surface grinding operations to achieve required finishes and tolerances on parts.
  • Prepare parts for spray coating by cleaning, masking, and arranging components according to specifications.
  • Perform glass bead blasting operations to remove dust, smoke, and contaminants from machine parts.
  • Change out sand, grit, and other blasting media from machines as needed to maintain proper operation and finish quality.
  • Handle and support coating-related tasks to ensure parts are ready for thermal coating processes.
  • Use basic math skills to verify measurements, quantities, and process parameters.
  • Lift, move, and position parts and materials weighing up to 50 pounds safely and efficiently.
  • Read and follow written instructions, work orders, and process documentation in English.
  • Document product information, work performed, and production results accurately and legibly.
  • Monitor equipment during operation and report any issues or irregularities to appropriate personnel.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with safety and housekeeping standards.

Essential Skills

  • Two or more years of experience in thermal coatings operations.
  • Hands-on experience operating sandblasting equipment in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
  • Experience operating surface grinders to prepare and finish parts.
  • Ability to perform glass bead blasting operations on machine parts.
  • Basic math skills to support measurements, counts, and process checks.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
  • Ability to read and write in English to follow instructions and document product and work performed.
  • Familiarity with machine operation in a production setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience in an aerospace manufacturing or aerospace machine shop environment.
  • Experience working with coatings or surface preparation for thermal coating processes.
  • Comfort working with various blasting media, including sand, grit, and glass beads.
  • Attention to detail to ensure parts meet cleanliness and surface finish requirements.
  • Strong focus on safety and adherence to established procedures.

Why Work Here?

Join a specialized aerospace manufacturing environment where you work with precision components and advanced coating processes. You benefit from a clear path to a quick permanent transition after an initial period, offering long-term stability and growth. The workplace values consistent daytime hours and a structured schedule, supporting work-life balance while you build your skills in a highly technical and respected industry.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing environment within an aerospace machine shop. You will work around production machinery such as sandblasting units, surface grinders, and related coating preparation equipment. The standard schedule runs Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The setting is industrial and hands-on, with exposure to noise, dust, and blasting media, and requires appropriate use of personal protective equipment and adherence to safety procedures.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Torrance, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
โ€ข Medical, dental & vision
โ€ข Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
โ€ข 401(k) Retirement Plan โ€“ Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
โ€ข Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
โ€ข Short and long-term disability
โ€ข Health Spending Account (HSA)
โ€ข Transportation benefits
โ€ข Employee Assistance Program
โ€ข Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Torrance,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry โ€“ from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companiesโ€™ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry โ€“ from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companiesโ€™ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.