Machine Operator

Job Description:

Key Responsibilities

Should have a knowledge of industrial coating experienceExpertise in surface preparationKnowledge of paint application methodsAble to monitor environment consider to ensure appropriate paintingHave to ensure compliance with painting standard, codes and regulationsSurface PreparationPerform shot/grit blasting on fabricated assemblies, machined components, or drive housing components. - Ensure uniform blasting to remove rust, scale, weld slag, oil, and previous coatings.Achieve the required surface cleanliness grade (e.g., Sa 2.5 / Sa 3) and anchor profile as specified in the technical specification sheet or paint system.Pre-Blasting InspectionVerify material identity using heat code / part ID prior to blasting.Ensure weld joints, oil marks, burrs, and surface damages are appropriately rectified before blasting. - Mask or protect critical surfaces (e.g., machined areas, threads, nameplates) from abrasive media using suitable masking tape or shields.

Equipment Operation & SetupOperate manual/semi-auto blasting machines, including blasting pots, hoses, nozzle guns, recovery system, and dust collectors. - Adjust air pressure, nozzle size, and abrasive flow as per job card / SOP.Monitor compressor operation and airflow consistency during the job. - Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation inside blasting booths.

Abrasive Media HandlingLoad, monitor, and maintain abrasive blasting media (e.g., steel shots, aluminum oxide).Ensure media cleanliness by screening and rejecting contaminated or broken grits. - Inform supervisor for replenishment of low media stock.

Post-Blasting InspectionConduct visual inspection of blasted surface for cleanliness, roughness, or missed areas.Reject and reblast areas that show flash rust, oil residue, under-blasting, or excessive pitting.Inform quality or paint department once surface is ready for primer application.

Documentation & TraceabilityRecord job number, component name, part number, heat number, blasting parameters, date, and operator initials on surface treatment records or Q-log sheet.Ensure traceability between raw material heat code and finished component at all stages.Tag components clearly post-blasting before transfer to paint.

Maintenance & 5SWear mandatory PPE: blasting helmet with air supply, earplugs, gloves, overalls, and steel-toe boots.Follow confined space entry protocols and ventilation system operation.Handle used abrasives and waste according to hazardous waste handling norms.Follow SOP in case of emergency (e.g., equipment burst, media exposure, fire).

Coordination with Other TeamsCoordinate with quality, paint, fabrication, and material handling teams for job sequencing.Report delay reasons, rejection causes, or equipment readiness status.Support continuous improvement or 8D problem-solving activities in case of quality issues.

Qualification:Minimum Education- ITI / NCTVT in Painter / Fitter / Fabrication / Surface Treatment or equivalent Preferred Vocational Training- Industrial Blasting, Abrasive Media Handling, Safety in Surface TreatmentAdditional Training / Certifications- SSPC/NACE Blaster Certification Level I (preferred) Internal training on ISO 8501-1, ISO 12944, ISO 11124 blasting standards (if available)Work Instruction Comprehension- Must be able to read and interpret job cards, pictorial SOPs, and technical paint/blasting parameters in English or local language

Experience:Minimum 2-4 years in surface preparation/blasting operations in heavy fabrication, construction equipment, pressure vessels, or shipbuildingEquipment Experience- Hands-on with air pressure blasting pots, suction blasting, recovery & dust extraction systemsFamiliarity with Standards- ISO 8501 (surface preparation), ISO 11124 (abrasives), NACE/SSPC standardsSafety Experience- Experience in working with full PPE, confined booth operation, ventilation, and safety interlocks