Sandblast Operator (3rd Shift)

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 facility. You will work primarily on 3rd shift, supporting production by sandblasting components, moving materials with forklifts or cranes, and assisting with metal cutting and forming operations as needed. The position requires strong attention to detail, accurate measuring, and a commitment to maintaining a clean and organized work area.

Responsibilities

• Operate sandblasting equipment to clean and prepare various metal parts and materials used in aerospace and airplane frame fabrication.
• Set up and adjust sandblasting machinery and related equipment according to job specifications and safety requirements.
• Handle and move parts and materials around the shop using a forklift, jib crane, or overhead crane when required.
• Assist machine operators with cutting, forming, and fabricating metal parts to support overall production needs.
• Measure parts accurately using a tape measure and other basic measuring tools to verify dimensions and quality.
• Read and interpret basic blueprints and production documentation to understand job requirements and specifications.
• Operate or support operation of CNC machines, saws, bandsaws, and other production equipment as needed.
• Perform basic machine setup and changeovers for sandblasting and related fabrication equipment.
• Monitor production processes to maintain consistent quality and meet production goals in a high-volume environment.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area, including regular housekeeping of sandblasting and surrounding workstations.
• Follow all safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment while working with industrial machinery and materials.
• Collaborate with other shop employees, including machine operators, material handlers, and quality control staff, to ensure efficient workflow.
• Support other areas of the shop as needed, including general machine operation and material handling.

Essential Skills

• At least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on sandblasting experience in a shop or industrial setting.
• Good, stable job tenure demonstrating reliability and commitment.
• Experience operating a forklift, jib crane, or overhead crane for material handling.
• Ability to accurately read and use a tape measure for measuring parts and verifying dimensions.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints or basic technical drawings.
• Experience with machine operation in a production environment, including setup and basic troubleshooting.
• Comfort working in an industrial fabrication or sheet metal environment.
• Strong basic math skills to support measuring, layout, and production calculations.
• Ability to work 3rd shift hours and overtime as needed.
• Commitment to safety and consistent use of appropriate PPE.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience as a furnace operator in a forging or heat-treat environment.
• Previous forge or heavy industrial experience.
• Extensive measuring experience with various measuring tools beyond a tape measure.
• CNC machine operating experience, including setup and operation.
• Experience with various types of machine operation such as saw operation, bandsaw operation, and general production machinery.
• Background in aerospace or precision fabrication environments.
• Experience with machine setup, including setting up machines for new jobs and changeovers.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain organization in a fast-paced production setting.

Why Work Here?

The company fosters a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and encouraged to build long-term careers. The shop maintains strong employee tenure, and many individuals choose to return after exploring other opportunities, reflecting a positive and stable work environment. You can expect clear organization, well-labeled work areas, and a team-oriented atmosphere where everyone contributes to shared production goals.

Work Environment

This position is based in a manufacturing environment that is non-climate-controlled, so it can be hot during the summer months. The facility has an older exterior, but the shop itself is kept as clean and organized as possible, with clearly labeled areas and equipment. You will work alongside approximately 40 shop employees, including machine operators, material handlers, quality control staff, and leadership. Appropriate work attire includes steel-toe footwear, jeans, and a work shirt, along with all required personal protective equipment provided or specified by the company. The role is for 3rd (night) shift, with typical hours of Sunday 9:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., then Monday through Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., with Thursday scheduled as needed. All positions train on day shift for approximately two weeks before moving to the assigned shift. Day shift typically runs Monday through Thursday from 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and additional hours or weekend work as needed. A separate 2nd shift operates Monday through Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Houston, TX 77061.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/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: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Houston, TX 77061.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 29, 2026.