Painter and Blaster in Manchester

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Painter & Blaster to join a leading client within the rail rolling stock industry at their modern Manchester facility. This is an excellent opportunity to secure a permanent role within a highly respected engineering environment, working on critical rail overhaul and refurbishment projects.

The Role

As a Painter & Blaster, you will play a key role in the overhaul, protection, and finishing of rail components including bogie frames, wheelsets, and associated sub-assemblies. You will be responsible for surface preparation, abrasive blasting, coating application, and quality finishing to ensure components meet strict industry and safety standards. This position is ideal for someone who takes pride in delivering high-quality workmanship, thrives in a safety-focused environment, and has experience working within heavy engineering, rail, automotive, or industrial painting sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out abrasive blasting, cleaning, masking, painting, and curing of components in line with engineering specifications and work instructions.
• Prepare and apply primers, topcoats, and specialist coatings to required quality standards.
• Operate blasting and paint booth equipment safely and effectively while maintaining environmental and quality compliance.
• Inspect surfaces and prepare components to specified cleanliness and roughness standards (e.g. SA2.5).
• Measure and record coating thickness and finish quality using inspection equipment and gauges.
• Ensure correct curing and drying processes are followed and documented accurately.
• Complete touch-up and rework activities where required to maintain finish quality.
• Safely move large components using lifting equipment including cranes, manipulators, and trolleys.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping and 5S standards across work areas.
• Handle paints, solvents, and blasting materials in accordance with COSHH and environmental regulations.
• Accurately record process information, paint batch details, and inspection results.
• Report equipment faults or quality concerns promptly to supervision.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, productivity, and safety.
• Assist in other operational areas when required to support production demands.

Qualifications

NVQ, City & Guilds, IMI Level 2 or 3 qualification in Vehicle Refinishing, Paint Spraying, or a related discipline preferred. Equivalent hands-on industry experience will also be considered.

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in industrial painting and abrasive blasting within rail, heavy engineering, automotive, or manufacturing environments.
• Strong knowledge of surface preparation, masking, blasting techniques, and paint application processes.
• Experience using paint booths, blasting systems, and coating inspection equipment.
• Good understanding of coating specifications, mixing ratios, curing processes, and quality standards.
• Knowledge of COSHH regulations, PPE requirements, and safe handling of paints and solvents.
• ICATS, CSCS Paint Sprayer, or equivalent industrial coating certifications advantageous.
• Ability to consistently achieve high-quality finishes while working to production targets and safety standards.

What's on Offer

• Permanent, long-term opportunity with a leading organisation in the rail sector.
• Stable and growing industry.
• Modern working environment and equipment.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile rolling stock projects.
• Supportive team culture with ongoing development opportunities.

If you are an experienced Painter & Blaster looking for your next permanent opportunity within the rail industry, we would love to hear from you.