1st Class Blaster/Painter

Job Title: 1st Class Marine Blaster Painter

Location : Pascagoula, Ms

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced 1st Class Marine Blaster Painter with a minimum of 3 years of shipyard experience to join our team. This is a top-tier skilled trade position responsible for advanced surface preparation and protective coating application on marine vessels, structural steel, and industrial equipment. The ideal candidate demonstrates expert-level craftsmanship, strict adherence to safety standards, and the ability to work independently or lead junior team members.

Must-Have Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of shipyard experience
• Proven experience performing abrasive blasting (garnet, grit, shot)
• Strong knowledge of surface preparation standards (SSPC/NACE)
• Experience applying epoxy, polyurethane, zinc-rich primers, and specialty coatings
• Ability to operate and maintain airless, conventional, and plural component spray systems
• Ability to measure and achieve specified blast profiles and DFT requirements
• Experience working in confined spaces and at heights
• Strong understanding of environmental controls (temperature, humidity, dew point)
• Solid knowledge of workplace safety regulations

Preferred Qualifications

• Trade certification in blasting and painting
• Experience on marine projects
• Leadership or supervisory experience guiding junior painters
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and coating specifications
• Experience conducting coating inspections and quality control checks

Key Responsibilities

• Perform abrasive blasting to remove rust, scale, and existing coatings
• Prepare surfaces according to project specifications and industry standards
• Apply protective marine coatings with precision and quality control
• Inspect completed work to ensure proper adhesion, uniform coverage, and required DFT
• Maintain and troubleshoot blasting and painting equipment
• Follow strict safety procedures at all times
• Mentor and support junior blasters and painters

6 Screening Questions for AI Candidate Evaluation

1. How many years of shipyard experience do you have specifically in marine blasting and painting?
2. What types of coatings have you applied (epoxy, polyurethane, zinc-rich primers, etc.)?
3. What methods do you use to measure and verify correct DFT and blast profile?
4. Describe your experience working in confined spaces or at heights.
5. Are you certified in blasting and painting? If yes, please specify.
6. Have you supervised or trained junior blasters or painters? Describe your leadership experience.