Production Specialist - Blasting

Summary: A Production Specialist Blaster at Fewell Monument is responsible for preparing granite memorials for inscription using both automatic and specialty blasting equipment. This role involves tasks such as stenciling, moving materials into blasting units, operating blasting equipment, frosting, specialty carving, and finishing memorials. The Blaster will also ensure the careful and safe movement of inventory through the blasting process while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily start-up of blasting equipment, ensuring all components (including compressor, sand feed, etc.) are fully inspected, operational, and properly connected.
• Maintain blasting equipment for optimal performance, promptly addressing any issues that arise.
• Inspect memorials to ensure stencils are applied correctly and ready for blasting.
• Program and set blasting units to ensure efficient and accurate inscription, adjusting settings as needed for each stone type.
• Expertly operate blasting equipment, monitoring the process to ensure the granite is properly and fully inscribed according to specifications.
• Adjust blast pressure, angle, and duration to achieve desired results.
• Inspect finished memorials to ensure all blasting is complete and aligns with the layout.
• Confirm the final product matches the order before moving it to the finishing stage.
• Safely move memorials in and out of blast units, positioning them for maximum efficiency.
• Minimize setup time by optimizing the workflow and ensuring smooth transitions between operations.
• Keep blasting area and chambers clean and organized daily.
• Regularly clean blasting residue from collection troughs and conduct weekly deep cleanings.
• Refill sand barrels as necessary using 50-pound bags of blasting sand.
• Monitor the condition of blasting nozzles and replace as needed to maintain proper blast stream.
• Track and report the daily blast time for each unit, ensuring accurate records are maintained for production purposes.
• Ensure all safety protocols and OSHA regulations are adhered to at all times.
• Follow company policies, including proper equipment handling, safety procedures, and cleanliness standards.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Reliable transportation to work.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with team members and supervisors.
• Ability to operate forklifts and other material handling equipment safely.
• Ability to read and understand work orders and processing procedures.
• Commitment to safety and following all company policies and OSHA guidelines.
• Willingness to follow instructions and maintain a positive, team-oriented attitude.
• Professional appearance and demeanor, especially when interacting with customers.

Required Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in general production, factory, or warehouse operations.
• Previous experience handling blasting equipment preferred.
• Familiarity with material handling equipment (e.g., forklifts) is a plus.

Work Environment:

• The role involves approximately 6 hours of blasting time per 8-hour workday.
• You may encounter customers visiting the facility and will be expected to present a professional, well-groomed appearance and assist when necessary.
• This position involves using company-owned equipment, which must be operated with care and maintained to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance
• Bonuses based on group performance