Blaster

JOB TITLE: Blaster

SUPERVISOR: Paint Shop Supervisor/Production Manager

DEPARTMENT: Indirect

STATUS: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

LOCATION: Two Harbors, MN

PAY RANGE: $23.00 - $30.00

Job Summary:

The Blaster prepares metal surfaces for coating by operating abrasive blasting equipment to remove rust, mill scale, old coatings, and surface contaminants from manufactured products in the finishing operation at Two Harbors Machine Shop, which builds equipment for its Serco Loaders product line. The Blaster produces clean, properly profiled surfaces that meet specification and quality standards, and works in strict accordance with all safety procedures. This role is focused on surface preparation; painting and coating are performed by the paint and coating team.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate abrasive blasting equipment — blast cabinets, blast rooms or booths, and portable blast pots — to remove rust, mill scale, old coatings, and contaminants from surfaces.
• Select, load, and manage the appropriate blast media for the material and the required finish.
• Achieve the specified surface cleanliness and profile required for downstream coating, following applicable surface-preparation standards.
• Mask and protect areas, fittings, or components that should not be blasted.
• Inspect surfaces before and after blasting for cleanliness, profile, and defects, and verify they meet specification before handoff to the coating team.
• Operate and monitor dust collection, containment, and blast-media recovery and recycling systems.
• Maintain and clean blasting equipment, including nozzles, hoses, blast pots, and the blast helmet and its breathing-air supply.
• Monitor the supplied breathing-air system to ensure clean, safe air while blasting.
• Maintain proper ventilation and dust control in the work area to limit exposure to airborne dust and contaminants.
• Follow all safety protocols and consistently wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain records of work performed, including surface preparation, media used, and inspection results.
• Report equipment issues, safety concerns, or non-conformities to the supervisor.
• Support other finishing operations and cross-train as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
  
  
  

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Proficiency in operating abrasive blasting equipment.
• Ability to achieve and verify surface cleanliness and profile to specification.
• Knowledge of safety practices and regulatory requirements, including respiratory protection and dust control.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and drawings.
• Ability to wear a supplied-air blasting respirator and required PPE for extended periods.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment.
• Dependable attendance and a strong safety mindset.
  
  
  

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Previous work experience using sandblasting equipment preferred.
• Additional vocational training in industrial painting in a manufacturing setting or related field a plus.
• Prior experience with paint prepping preferred.
  
  
  

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods standing and moving on a shop floor.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds; heavier items are handled with team lifts or lift assists.
• Ability to wear a supplied-air abrasive-blasting helmet or hood and heavy protective clothing and gloves for extended periods, and to handle and maneuver blast hoses and nozzles, including their reaction force.
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, gripping, and repetitive hand and arm motion.
• Vision (with correction) adequate to inspect surfaces and read specifications.
• Work is performed in an enclosed blast room, booth, or containment area with high noise, airborne dust, and limited visibility; the role may involve work in enclosed or confined spaces subject to the Company's confined-space procedures.
• Respirator use for this position requires medical clearance and fit testing before assignment, and consistent use of required PPE — including a NIOSH-approved supplied-air respirator, hearing protection, eye and face protection, a protective suit, gloves, and safety footwear.
  
  
  

What We Offer:

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision; group and voluntary life; short- and long-term disability.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Stable, family-oriented work environment with opportunities to grow
  
  
  

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Two Harbors Machine Shop / Serco Loaders is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.