Painter/Sandblaster

Job Summary:

We are seeking a detail-oriented and safety-conscious Painter/Sandblaster to support our industrial operations. This role is responsible for preparing and finishing surfaces on industrial equipment and structures using sandblasting and painting techniques. The ideal candidate will thrive in a physically demanding and fast-paced environment, while maintaining a high standard of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate portable equipment such as ventilators, exhaust units, ladders, and scaffolding.
• Use lifting and moving devices to access and prepare surfaces for painting.
• Clean surfaces by removing grease, dirt, paint, and rust using solvents, brushes, sandblasters, or other tools.
• Fill dents and scratches with body filler and smooth surfaces for finishing.
• Apply rust-resistant undercoats, caulk, and seal seams.
• Layout and apply logos, symbols, or designs using stencils, patterns, and measuring instruments.
• Hook up and regulate abrasive blasting equipment; mask areas to protect from abrasion.
• Select appropriate paint and spray gun systems based on specifications and color charts.
• Mix and verify paint viscosity, load spray guns, and adjust for proper flow and coating.
• Spray primers, finishes, and decorative coatings on prepared surfaces.
• Perform hand-painting for retouching and hard-to-reach areas.
• Inspect painting for flaws and correct defects such as blisters or streaks.
• Clean and maintain painting equipment and work area; disassemble and reassemble sprayers.
• Properly dispose of hazardous waste in compliance with regulations.
• Operate forklifts if certified (preferred).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 1 years' experience in sandblasting and/or industrial painting is preferred.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities:

• Attention to detail and ability to identify and correct flaws in finish work.
• Capable of working long hours and overtime as needed.
• Strong cooperation and team-oriented attitude.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and hazardous waste disposal.
• Forklift experience is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.

Work Location and Travel:

• Location is at 1400 Chamber Drive, Bartow, Florida, 33830
• This position is based in an industrial shop environment; no regular travel is expected.
• Schedule varies and includes potential overtime, weekend, and evening work (Monday-Sunday).

Work Environment:

• Industrial shop setting; not climate-controlled (hot/humid conditions common).
• Frequent exposure to moving machinery, heavy equipment, and safety-sensitive conditions.
• Must remain alert and able to perform all job duties safely.
• Mid-State maintains a firm commitment to providing a safe and healthy work environment for its employees and quality services to its clients. Mid-State is a drug-free workplace. Must be able to pass a post-offer / pre-placement drug screen and job-related employment physicals. Must also submit to a post-offer / pre-employment background check that verifies criminal history.

Physical Requirements:

Talk/Hear: Required to communicate effectively with team members, follow verbal instructions, and respond promptly to safety signals and warnings in a loud industrial environment.

Stand/Sit: Required to operate equipment, prepare surfaces, and apply paint or coatings for extended periods during various phases of the finishing process.

Walk: Required to access different work areas, transport materials, and move between equipment and workstations throughout the shop or job site.

Use hands/fingers to handle or feel: Required to operate tools and equipment, adjust spray guns, prepare surfaces, and perform detailed tasks such as masking and touch-up work.

Climb: Occasionally needed to access elevated work areas, set up and use ladders or scaffolding, and reach surfaces that require preparation or coating.

Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl: Occasionally needed to reach and prepare low or confined surfaces for blasting or painting, apply coatings in tight spaces, and perform detailed touch-up work in hard-to-access areas.

See: Needed to ensure proper surface preparation, assess coating quality, monitor equipment settings, and maintain accuracy and safety during blasting and painting tasks.

Carry, weight, Lift: Needed to transport equipment, paint containers, hoses, and materials necessary for surface preparation and coating applications.

Exposure to work: Exposure to industrial environments that may include loud noise, hazardous chemicals, paint fumes, dust, and moving machinery, requiring the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

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