Rope Access Painter/Blaster with Arctic Testing and Inspection

Arctic Testing and Inspection (ATI) offers a wide-range of comprehensive advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) and inspection services for the energy, infrastructure, manufacturing and aerospace industries. Join ATI and become part of a team dedicated to innovation, excellence, and making a meaningful impact across critical industries.

About the role

The Rope Access Painter/Blaster is responsible for performing abrasive blasting and industrial coating/painting operations on structures, tanks, towers, bridges, and other assets using rope access techniques instead of scaffolding or aerial lifts. This role requires working at height in confined and difficult-to-access locations while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, surface preparation standards, and coating application specifications.

Responsibilities

• Perform abrasive blasting (sand, grit, or other approved media) to prepare surfaces for coating, removing rust, old paint, and contaminants to specified surface profile standards (e.g., SSPC/NACE)
• Apply industrial coatings, paints, and protective finishes using spray, roller, or brush techniques while suspended via rope access systems
• Rig and de-rig rope access equipment (ropes, descenders, ascenders, anchors, harnesses) in compliance with IRATA/SPRAT standards
• Conduct pre-use inspections of all rope access and blasting/painting equipment
• Set up and operate blasting pots, compressors, hoses, and containment/collection systems
• Mix and prepare coatings per manufacturer specifications and environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dew point)
• Monitor and record surface preparation and coating thickness using gauges (profile gauges, wet/dry film thickness gauges)
• Erect and manage containment systems (shrouding, netting) to control dust, debris, and overspray
• Identify and report corrosion, structural defects, or safety hazards
• Follow confined space, fall protection, and hazardous materials handling protocols
• Complete daily job safety analyses (JSAs), toolbox talks, and inspection documentation
• Maintain and clean equipment; report damaged or defective gear
• Work collaboratively with rope access team members, supervisors, and site safety personnel
• Adhere to environmental regulations regarding waste disposal, VOC emissions, and blast media containment

Requirements

• Valid IRATA or SPRAT rope access certification
• Demonstrated experience in abrasive blasting and industrial coating application
• High school diploma or GED required
• Ability to pass a physical fitness exam and work at heights for extended periods
• Willingness to work in confined spaces, extreme weather, and outdoor industrial environments
• Strong understanding of surface preparation standards and coating systems
• Ability to travel to job sites, sometimes for extended periods
• Valid driver's license
• 2+ years of experience in industrial coatings, blasting, or rope access work (varies by employer; senior roles may require 3-5+ years)

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal training or apprenticeship in industrial painting/blasting preferred
• NACE/SSPC coatings certification preferred (e.g., NACE Level 1 or Coating Inspector)
• NCCER Painting certification preferred
• Prior experience in oil & gas, wind energy, bridges/infrastructure, marine, or heavy industrial sectors is a plus
• First Aid/CPR certification often required or preferred

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Generous PTO plan
• Paid holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K with 100% match up to 4% eligible compensation and 100% immediate vesting
• Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability