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Sandblaster Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

BlastOne

Territory Manager

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Experience with Industrial Sandblaster/Painter The Perks working at BlastOne * Great company culture with a meaningful mission * Flexible time off * Generous 401k policy * Industry leading Health ...

SBSBTC

EHS & QA Coordinator

Norfolk, VA

SOUTH BAY SANDBLASTING & TANK CLEANING, INC. shipyard related subcontractor seeking a detail-oriented EHS & QA Coordinator to support our Navy Operations in Norfolk Virginia. Job Summary We're ...

Staff Management | SMX

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Manufacturing Associate

Wytheville, VA · On-site

$18.49/hr

Empty saw-shaving drums and filter bed dumpsters as needed. * Assist with utility tasks such as breaking down coffins and sandblasting tooling. * Load and unload annealing ovens. * Build pallets and ...

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All JobsSandblaster JobsSandblaster Jobs in Virginia

Sandblaster information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do sandblaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for sandblaster in Virginia is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sandblaster do?

As a sandblaster, your job is to remove paint, rust, and other material build-ups from rough surfaces using specialized equipment that sprays abrasive materials. The material is typically a mixture of coarse sand and compressed air. High pressure forces the mixture through a hose to smooth or clean the surface. A career as a sandblaster starts with learning to operate the various sandblasting equipment. Construction, automotive, and restoration projects often require sandblasting work, so positions are available in a variety of industries.

How much money does a sandblaster make?

A sandblaster's average salary in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled sandblasters with certifications and experience in industrial settings can earn higher wages, especially with overtime or specialized equipment knowledge.

What safety protocols should sandblasters expect to follow on the job?

Sandblasters must adhere to strict safety protocols due to exposure to dust, abrasive materials, and high-pressure equipment. This typically includes wearing personal protective equipment such as respirators, gloves, protective suits, and eye protection. Work environments are often ventilated or equipped with dust collection systems to minimize airborne hazards. Regular safety training and equipment inspections are standard practices to ensure both personal and team safety. Being vigilant about safety not only prevents accidents but is also essential for long-term health in this physically demanding role.

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

To thrive as a Sandblaster, you need knowledge of abrasive blasting techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often acquired through on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with industrial sandblasting machines, personal protective equipment (PPE), and sometimes OSHA safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and strong teamwork skills help ensure both quality and efficiency in the work environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing high-quality surface finishes while maintaining a safe and productive workplace.

What is a sandblaster?

Sandblasters are skilled professionals who use specialized equipment to clean, smooth, or shape surfaces by blasting them with abrasive materials, typically sand or similar substances. This process is commonly used to remove paint, rust, or other surface contaminants from metal, concrete, and other materials. Sandblasters work in industries like construction, automotive restoration, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Their work requires attention to safety protocols due to the high-pressure equipment and the potential health risks associated with airborne particles.

Is sandblasting a good job?

Sandblasting is a physically demanding job that involves cleaning or shaping surfaces using abrasive materials under high pressure. It requires safety training and protective gear due to exposure to dust and chemicals, and it can offer steady employment in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance industries. Compensation varies based on experience and location, with some roles offering overtime and benefits.

What is the difference between Sandblaster vs Paint Sprayer?

AspectSandblasterPaint Sprayer
Primary FunctionUses abrasive materials to clean or etch surfacesApplies paint or coatings to surfaces
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, construction sites, manufacturingPainting projects, automotive, construction
Required CertificationsSafety training, respirator usePainter certifications, safety training
Tools & EquipmentBlasting cabinet, abrasive mediaSpray guns, compressors

While both roles involve surface preparation and finishing, sandblasters focus on cleaning and etching surfaces using abrasive materials, whereas paint sprayers apply coatings for protection and aesthetics. Both jobs require safety training and are common in industrial and construction environments, but they serve different purposes in the surface treatment process.

More about Sandblaster jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sandblaster jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Sandblaster jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Sandblaster jobs in Virginia? For Sandblaster jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sandblaster jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Sandblaster jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sandblaster jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sandblaster job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sandblaster jobs in VA? For Sandblaster jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sandblaster jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sandblaster job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,054 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Estimator

South Bay Sand Blasting & Tank Cleaning

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

SOUTH BAY SANDBLASTING & TANK CLEANING, INC. is expanding operations to support our customers in Norfolk, Virginia. We are a shipyard-related subcontractor specializing in tank cleaning and technical flushing for U.S. Navy vessels. We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Estimator to join our Norfolk team.

Job Summary

We are looking for a highly organized, technically minded Estimator who can develop accurate, timely, and competitive estimates for Navy and government ship repair projects. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in ship repair, industrial services, marine systems, or government contracting. This role will handle the full proposal process, from reviewing specifications to generating complete bid packages.

This position is located in Norfolk, VA. We are not hiring remote or relocation candidates at this time.

Key ResponsibilitiesEstimate & Proposal Preparation

  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for tank cleaning, technical flushing, and related marine service projects.

  • Review NAVSEA specifications, SOWs, technical drawings, blueprints, and contract requirements.

  • Develop accurate labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor pricing.

  • Build complete proposal packages including scope narratives, pricing breakdowns, assumptions, risks, and clarifications.

Technical Field Evaluation

  • Conduct ship checks and site visits aboard Navy vessels to gather data and validate conditions.

  • Interpret system diagrams, tank arrangements, and flushing requirements to determine labor sequencing and material needs.

  • Identify potential risks, obstacles, and cost-saving opportunities.

Customer & Internal Coordination

  • Communicate with customers (prime contractors, shipyards, government) to clarify requirements and timelines.

  • Work closely with management and production teams to ensure estimates align with operational capabilities.

  • Track bid results and assist in improving future proposal strategies.

Documentation & Reporting

  • Maintain well-organized estimate files, historical cost data, and proposal archives.

  • Support internal forecasting, pricing model updates, and competitive analysis.

  • Assist in business development efforts through accurate and timely proposal submissions.

Requirements

  • Experience as an Estimator in marine, ship repair, industrial cleaning, or related trades required.

  • Strong understanding of ship systems, tanks, piping, flushing procedures, and marine environments.

  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, system diagrams, and NAVSEA specifications.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and estimating/project software.

  • Excellent communication, organizational, and time-management skills.

  • Ability to manage multiple bids and strict deadlines.

  • High attention to detail and analytical accuracy.

  • High School Diploma or GED required; technical, engineering, or maritime background preferred.

Working Environment and Physical Demands

  • Must be able to conduct ship checks in shipyard and onboard environments.

  • Must be able to sit, stand, and work in an office setting as needed.

  • Must be flexible with schedule depending on bid and project requirements.

  • Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Other Requirements

  • This employer participates in E-Verify.

  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

  • Ability to read technical English is required.

  • Must be able to pass background screening to obtain access to Norfolk-area Navy shipyards.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro