Sand Blaster - Petrochemical Industry

We are looking for a highly capable Blaster to join upcoming petrochemical projects across South Africa and Namibia.

You will be responsible for preparing metal surfaces for coating applications on industrial structures such as fuel tanks, pipelines, and steel structures.

Your work will ensure surfaces meet project specifications, quality standards, and site-specific health, safety, and environmental requirements.

Location: various regions within South Africa and/or Namibia

Department: Projects

Position Type: Fixed Term Contract

Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled Technical Worker

Reports to: Site Supervisor

Key Responsibilities

• Perform abrasive blasting on steel surfaces to prepare for painting or coating.
• Ensure surfaces meet specified surface profile and cleanliness standards (e.g., SA 2.5 or client-specific requirements).
• Operate and maintain blasting equipment, including hoses, nozzles, and compressors.
• Mix and load abrasive materials as required for each project.
• Mask and protect surfaces not intended for blasting.
• Comply with all health, safety, and environmental regulations on-site; wear and maintain appropriate PPE, including respiratory protection.
• Conduct daily inspections on blasting equipment and tools, perform basic troubleshooting, and report defects.
• Assist with setting up and dismantling blasting areas.
• Keep accurate logs of work completed and materials used.
• Work closely with painters, supervisors, and team members to assist in coordinating surface preparation with coating schedules.

Qualifications:

• Grade 12 / National Senior Certificate.
• Formal sandblasting certification or industry-recognised training.
• Understanding of Permit-to-Work Systems.
• Valid Working at Heights training certificate.
• Valid Confined Space Entry training certificate.
• Valid driver’s license.

Experience:

• Minimum 2 - 5 years’ experience as a Blaster in petrochemical, industrial, or heavy engineering sectors.
• Prior experience in petrochemical, fuel terminal, or high-risk industrial environments is preferred (e.g., tank repair, refurbishment, fabrication, and piping installation).
• Cross-functional experience coordinating with scaffolding, mechanical, civil, QA/QC, and safety teams.

Knowledge

• Expertise in abrasive blasting techniques, masking, equipment handling, and surface preparation for industrial coatings.
• Deep knowledge of surface preparation grades, standards, and surface profiles (e.g., SA 2.5).
• Understanding of technical specifications, ISO-compliant QCPs, and site safety procedures.
• Understanding of project execution workflows and awareness of mechanical, civil, and electrical safety risks.
• Familiarity with working in hazardous areas with flammable materials and emergency responses in petrochemical environments.
• Strong communication, conflict management, time management, and problem-solving skills.

Competencies:

• Adaptable & Alert: Adjusts effectively to changing site conditions and proactively identifies hazards.
• Calm under Pressure: Responds to dynamic environments and emergencies with composure.
• Humble & Respectful: Open to learning, collaborative, and treats all stakeholders with professionalism.
• Quick Thinking: Makes timely, effective decisions in challenging situations.