Interior Blaster

As part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings—which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway—you’ll be doing meaningful work, leading at every level, and contributing to a culture where everyone is empowered to be their best. Union Tank Car Company (UTLX) is a trusted industry leader in rail tank car repair and services, serving customers nationwide from our full-service repair shop in Cleveland, Texas.

About the role

The Car Finisher is responsible for preparing surfaces and applying coatings to railcars using industrial blasting and painting equipment. This hands-on position involves removing contaminants, mixing and applying coatings, and ensuring finished products meet quality and safety standards. The role is physically demanding and requires a strong focus on safety, quality, and teamwork in an industrial environment.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate blasting equipment with moderate supervision.
• Complete blasting work to meet quality standards and production timelines.
• Prepare interior and exterior surfaces of tank or hopper cars by removing rust, scale, weld slag, and contaminants using shot blasting equipment.
• Use approved air tools to remove grit and dust after blasting and ensure surfaces are clean.
• Inspect work for damage and ensure all components are protected and prepared properly.
• Grind weld spatter, laminations, and sharp edges; level girth welds as required.
• Vacuum and clean interiors of tank cars to ensure proper coating adhesion.
• Apply masking, foiling, and taping to protect components and surfaces not being coated.
• Select and mix coatings according to specifications, ensuring proper ratios of pigments, oils, bases, and thinners.
• Apply coatings using airless spray equipment to interior or exterior surfaces.
• Clean, inspect, and maintain blasting and spray equipment.
• Monitor coating processes, including baking procedures and temperature controls, following required specifications.
• Maintain accurate records of baking and coating operations.
• Apply decals and perform final cleaning and touch-up work prior to inspection.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area; identify and report hazards promptly.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent, or ability to pass a Combined Basic Skills Assessment Test.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions with minimal supervision.
• Ability to read and understand safety rules, procedures, and work instructions.
• Strong focus on safety, quality, and attention to detail.
• Flexibility to work any shift, including overtime, in accordance with union requirements.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an industrial repair or manufacturing environment.
• Rail industry experience.
• Tank car knowledge or experience.
• Industrial blasting, painting, or coating experience.

Work Environment

• Work performed in an industrial railcar repair facility with physically demanding conditions.
• Exposure to dirt, dust, fumes, noise, heat, and varying weather conditions.
• Requires moderate to heavy physical labor, including lifting, climbing, and working at heights or in confined spaces.
• Must be able to enter tank cars through 20-inch manway openings.
• Requires strong hand-eye coordination and sustained visual attention.
• Potential exposure to hazardous materials from leaks or spills.
• Required to wear PPE and follow all safety procedures.

Schedule

On-site role: 5 days per week, with overtime as needed.

Pay

Starting pay: $26.13 per hour.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, vision, and 401k matching.