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Sandblast Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Abrasive Blaster -1st Shift

Lynwood, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Qualification for candidates who have experience as Abrasive Blast Technician , Aerospace Abrasive Blast Operator , or Sandblasting Operator . * Other Physical Requirements * Vision (Near, Distance)

Assists other operators with processing activities such as components weight counting, glass ... Sandblast. * Passivation. * Alkaline Clean. * General plating skills. * Blueprints. * Work ...

Works with the assembly team to sandblast parts with minimal efforts, fit and align and/or adjust ... Ability to read and interpret company documents, such as safety rules, operating/manufacturing ...

Assembler 1 (Brea)

Brea, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Works with the assembly team to sandblast parts with minimal efforts, fit and align and/or adjust ... Ability to read and interpret company documents, such as safety rules, operating/manufacturing ...

Street Traffic Painter

Gardena, CA · On-site

$69K - $88K/yr

... sandblaster, vacuum applicator and truck; sets sign posts and barricades; assists in the ... Have you ever operated a Graco or Titan airless paint sprayer? * Yes * No 02 Have you ever ...

Sanding Associate

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... operators and maintainers in the commercial/regional airline, government and defense operation ... Designated as Cabinet-Abrasive Sandblaster; Shotblaster Ideal candidates offer: * Ability to work ...

Paint Prepper

La Habra, CA · On-site

$42K - $100K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... sandblasters. * Assists painter in pre-paint blending needs. * Works with paint team to assist in ...

Sanding Associate

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... operators and maintainers in the commercial/regional airline, government and defense operation ... Designated as Cabinet-Abrasive Sandblaster; Shotblaster Ideal candidates offer: * Ability to work ...

Paint Prepper

La Habra, CA · On-site

$42K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... sandblasters. * Assists painter in pre-paint blending needs. * Works with paint team to assist in ...

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... sandblasters. * Assists painter in pre-paint blending needs. * Works with paint team to assist in ...

... sandblasting, electro-etching equipment, and presses. * Actively follows and demonstrates all ... Ability to read and interpret company documents, including safety rules, operating instructions ...

Showing results 21-40

Sandblast Operator information

What is a sandblast operator?

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 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 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 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.

Do sandblast operators make good money?

Sandblast operators typically earn an hourly wage that can range from minimum wage to over $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in using abrasive blasting equipment often have higher earning potential. Overall, the salary is considered average for skilled trades, with opportunities for overtime and advancement.

How much do sandblast operators make?

Sandblast operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators who use specialized equipment or hold certifications may earn higher wages.

Is there a demand for sandblast operators?

Sandblast operators are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding, where surface preparation and finishing are required. Employment opportunities depend on industry activity and regional economic conditions, with skills in safety procedures and equipment operation being essential.

What are popular job titles related to Sandblast Operator jobs in California?

For Sandblast Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sandblast Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sandblast Operator jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Sandblast Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Abrasive Blaster -1st Shift

Valence Surface Technologies

Lynwood, CA • On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Determine priority of jobs and prepare for processing.

  • Select appropriate media according to specifications and customer requirements.

  • Complete paperwork as required by company and processing guidelines.


Valence Surface Technologies rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Status: Onsite, temp to hire 
Location: Lynwood, CA 90262
Pay Range: $18.50 – 20.00 p/h

1st Shift from 6:00am -2:30pm 

  • Essential Functions Statement(s)
    • Determine priority of jobs to begin preparing for processing
    • Select appropriate media according to specifications and customer requirements
    • Completes paperwork as required by company and processing guidelines
    • Ensure proper PPE is worn and safety guidelines are followed
    • Maintain a clean working area at all times by disposing of any unnecessary trash
    • Ensure all hazardous waste material is disposed of correctly 
    • Other duties as assigned
  • Competency Statement(s)
    • 1+ plus year of experience 
    • Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
    • Accountability - Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
    • Communication, Oral - Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word.
    • Customer Oriented - Ability to take care of the customers’ needs while following company
      procedures.
    • Detail Oriented - Ability to pay attention to the minute details of a project or task
    • Enthusiastic - Ability to bring energy to the performance of a task.
    • Ethical - Ability to demonstrate conduct conforming to a set of values and accepted standards.
    • Goal Oriented - Ability to focus on a goal and obtain a pre-determined result.
    • Honesty / Integrity - Ability to be truthful and be seen as credible in the workplace.
    • Initiative - Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
    • Persistence - Ability to complete tasks or continue in a course of action in spite of opposition or discouragement.
    • Safety Awareness - Ability to identify and correct conditions that affect employee safety.
    • Reliability - The trait of being dependable and trustworthy.
    • Time Management - Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines.
    • Self Motivated - Ability to be internally inspired to perform a task to the best of ones ability using his or her own drive or initiative.
    • Working Under Pressure - Ability to complete assigned tasks under stressful situations.
    • Responsible - Ability to be held accountable or answerable for one’s conduct.
    • Due to ITAR regulations, this position requires that the employee must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident).
    • Qualification for candidates who have experience as Abrasive Blast Technician, Aerospace Abrasive Blast Operator, or Sandblasting Operator.
  • Other Physical Requirements
    • Vision (Near, Distance)
    • Sense of Sound - Able to hear average audio range
    • Sense of Touch
    • Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - All Required

    WORK ENVIRONMENT
    Work is performed in shop conditions and can be in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit


    What Valence Surface Technologies employees say

    Pay

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

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