What are the responsibilities and job description for the Blast Room Employee (Sandblaster) position at Dorsey Trailer?
Position Summary
The Blast Room Employee is responsible for preparing trailer components and finished trailers for painting by operating abrasive blasting equipment to remove rust, mill scale, weld residue, dirt, and other contaminants. This position plays a critical role in ensuring proper surface preparation, product quality, and long-term durability of Dorsey Trailer products. Employees are expected to operate equipment safely, maintain production standards, and comply with all company safety policies and procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate abrasive blasting equipment to clean steel trailer components and assemblies.
- Prepare trailers and trailer parts for painting according to company specifications.
- Load, position, and secure trailers and components within the blast room.
- Inspect surfaces before and after blasting to ensure proper cleanliness and profile.
- Remove rust, paint, weld slag, oil, grease, dirt, and other contaminants.
- Maintain proper blasting pressure, media flow, and equipment settings.
- Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of blast room equipment.
- Refill and monitor blast media as required.
- Identify worn hoses, nozzles, valves, and safety equipment requiring replacement.
- Report equipment malfunctions or safety concerns immediately.
- Follow production schedules and meet daily production goals.
- Maintain a clean and organized work area.
- Assist other departments when production demands require.
- Comply with all OSHA regulations and Dorsey Trailer safety policies.
- Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Participate in safety meetings and training programs.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to safely operate industrial blasting equipment.
- Basic mechanical aptitude.
- Ability to recognize proper surface preparation standards.
- Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Commitment to workplace safety and quality workmanship.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Manufacturing or industrial experience preferred.
- Previous sandblasting or surface preparation experience is preferred but not required.
- Ability to successfully complete company training.
Physical Requirements
The employee must regularly:
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds frequently.
- Occasionally lift up to 75 pounds with assistance.
- Bend, stoop, kneel, squat, climb, and reach overhead.
- Work in confined spaces inside blasting equipment.
- Wear a blast hood, respirator, protective clothing, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe boots for extended periods.
- Perform repetitive arm and hand movements while operating blasting equipment.
Work Environment
This position is performed in an industrial manufacturing environment and regularly involves exposure to:
- High noise levels
- Dust and abrasive blasting media
- Heat, cold, and varying weather conditions
- Heavy industrial equipment
- Moving machinery
- Forklift traffic
- Overhead cranes
- Vibrations
- Industrial chemicals used in surface preparation
Proper PPE is required at all times.
Safety Responsibilities
Employees are expected to:
- Follow all OSHA regulations.
- Follow all Dorsey Trailer safety rules and procedures.
- Inspect PPE before each use.
- Report all accidents, injuries, near misses, and unsafe conditions immediately.
- Never bypass machine guards or safety devices.
- Maintain good housekeeping throughout the work shift.
Performance Expectations
Successful employees consistently demonstrate:
- Safe work habits
- Dependability and attendance
- Quality workmanship
- Productivity and efficiency
- Positive teamwork
- Accountability
- Willingness to learn
- Respect for company equipment and coworkers
Disclaimer
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Dorsey Trailer, LLC reserves the right to modify, assign, or remove job duties and responsibilities as business needs require. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.
Pay: $14.00 - $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $14 - $18