Sandblaster Team Lead

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

The Blast Team Lead is responsible for overseeing sandblasting and related surface preparation operations, ensuring high-quality workmanship, safety, and efficiency. This role leads a team of blast operators, supports production and assembly activities, and ensures adherence to company policies, procedures, and regulatory standards. The Team Lead promotes continuous improvement, maintains a clean and organized workspace, and fosters positive relationships across the organization.

Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks and controlled substance testing.

With or without reasonable accommodations, requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

• Lead, train, and mentor blast operators to ensure proper surface preparation, finishing, and packaging procedures.
• Manage the daily priority list to keep work flowing and on schedule.
• Locate, stage, and communicate required parts so operators know what needs to run next.
• Review inventory, track down missing parts, and retrieve them when necessary to prevent delays.
• Oversee removal of burrs or excess metal from machined parts to maintain quality standards.
• Assist blasters with prepping parts to ensure a steady and efficient workflow.
• Inspect all parts to verify they meet specifications and follow work instructions.
• Move parts in and out of the blasting area to improve efficiency and reduce bottlenecks.
• Monitor and enforce adherence to safety procedures, proper PPE use, and regulatory compliance.
• Participate in 5S activities and promote a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Maintain positive and collaborative working relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Track team performance, report progress to management, and address operational issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, AS9100, ISO 14001, and other quality standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

• Strong understanding of sandblasting techniques, tools, and materials.
• Ability to apply sound judgment to perform duties safely and effectively.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills; ability to accept and apply constructive feedback.
• Strong knowledge of ERP system (PLEX preferred).
• Ability to work independently while maintaining consistent communication with supervisors.
• Knowledge of and adherence to company quality and environmental policies, including AS9100 and ISO 14001 standards.
• Commitment to following safety procedures, security protocols, and proper PPE usage.
• Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to obtain an overhead crane permit as part of job requirements.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Previous relevant experience in manufacturing, technical, or production environment preferred.
• Experience supervising or leading a team preferred.

• Occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, and use hands to handle or feel materials or equipment.
• Occasional lifting or movement of up to 50 pounds.
• Work performed in a production or industrial setting with exposure to noise, moving equipment, and other environmental factors.
• Use of PPE as required by company and OSHA standards.
• Repetitive or continuous motions may be required depending on assigned duties.