At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.
Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.
Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.
Job description:
Job Summary:
The Care and Maintenance Sandblaster and Spraypainter will participate in the day to day operation of the Process Plant Maintenance team, including caring for infrastructure and identification of proactive care and maintenance requirements.
Based in the picturesque coastal town of Hopetoun, Western Australia, this is a residential role offering relocation support and company housing. This position is available to commence in January/February 2026.
Responsibilities:
Perform all sandblasting, surface preparation, and spray-painting tasks safely, efficiently and to a high standard, ensuring high-quality finishes and preventing rework.
Conduct surface cleaning, rust removal, abrasive blasting, coating application and curing in accordance with project specifications and required standards.
Be a self-starter who can work autonomously as well as collaboratively within the C&M Projects Team.
Demonstrate a commitment to workplace safety, strict PPE compliance, and the safety of your co-workers at all times.
Be accurate, methodical, practical and safety-conscious when preparing surfaces, mixing coatings, and applying protective systems to mechanical and structural equipment.
Ensure compliance with all work order attachments and documentation, including JHAs, CSRAs, SWIs and coating data sheets. Update documents when required to ensure they remain accurate and reflect best practice.
Ensure compliance with Safety and Environmental Management systems, policies and procedures, including the identification and control of hazards associated with blasting media, chemicals, paints and solvents.
Maintain a clean, safe work area by ensuring good housekeeping after each task and removing any residual hazards (e.g., overspray, blasting media, waste product).
Safely set up, operate and maintain blasting equipment, compressors, spray guns, pumps and related tools.
Conduct pre-start checks on mobile equipment, blasting units, compressors, spray equipment, lifting equipment and overhead cranes, ensuring correct documentation is completed and submitted.
Assist in the proactive identification of Care & Maintenance projects requiring refurbishment, coating repairs or corrosion management.
Ensure accurate completion and close-out of work orders, including correct time confirmations and coating compliance notes (DFT measurements, prep grades, batch numbers, etc.).
Be able to work at heights, in confined spaces and stand for sustained periods.
Perform heavy manual labour safely and effectively, including handling blasting hoses, pots and painting equipment.
Perform Care & Maintenance tasks relating to blasting, painting and equipment preservation.
Perform Care & Maintenance tasks relating to scaffolding where required (non-structural, as directed).
Ensure all tools, plant and equipment are kept in good condition, meet required safety standards and are available for use when needed.
Qualifications:
A minimum of 3 years’ experience in industrial sandblasting, surface preparation and spray painting (mining or heavy industry preferred).
Trade qualification in Surface Preparation & Protective Coatings, Industrial Spray Painting, or proven equivalent experience.
Crane Operating Ticket (C6 or higher) – Mandatory.
High Risk Work Licences such as EWP (WP), Forklift (LF), Telehandler, Basic Rigging (RB), Working at Heights and Confined Space Entry are desirable.
First Aid Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
Hold a current WA Driver’s Licence.
Ability to read and interpret technical documents such as coating specifications, product data sheets and safety instructions.
Basic understanding and ability to use CMMS (Pronto) at Trades Level.
Understanding of preventive and corrective maintenance principles, particularly relating to corrosion and asset preservation.
Knowledge of safe handling and storage of chemicals, solvents, paints and blasting media.
Good verbal and written communication skills.
Familiarity with best practice Workplace Health & Safety and Environmental procedures and relevant WA legislation.
Ability to multi-skill, prioritise work, and operate effectively within a small, high-performing Care & Maintenance team.
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