Sanding Machine Operator

Sanding Machine Operator / Composite Panel Finishing Technician

Plastic Manufacturing

Grand Prairie, TX

Multiple Shifts Available

Salary: $18/hr - $23/hr

Start Date: Immediate

Position Summary:

The Sanding Machine Operator will set up, operate and monitor industrial sanding equipment used to finish large composite sheets and panels. This position requires close attention to thickness, surface quality and dimensional tolerances, along with the physical ability to handle large sheets safely.

Key Responsibilities:

•Set up and operate industrial sanding equipment used to finish foam-core and fiberglass-reinforced panels.

•Load, position, feed and unload large sheets without damaging the material.

•Adjust sanding depth, feed speed, pressure and abrasive selection to meet job specifications.

•Measure panel thickness and dimensions using calipers, micrometers, gauges or other measuring tools.

•Maintain tight tolerances and consistent surface finishes across production runs.

•Inspect panels for scratches, uneven surfaces, thickness variation and other defects.

•Make machine adjustments when finished material does not meet specifications.

•Change sanding belts and complete basic cleaning, inspection and operator-level maintenance.

•Read work orders, production drawings and written instructions accurately.

•Record completed quantities, measurements, defects and material usage.

•Maintain a clean work area and safely control dust and production debris.

•Work independently when required while cooperating effectively with production and quality teams.

•Follow all safety procedures, including required PPE, machine guarding and material-handling practices.

Required Qualifications:

•Previous experience operating industrial sanders, finishing equipment or similar production machinery.

•Ability to complete detailed work while maintaining tight dimensional tolerances.

•Experience using calipers, micrometers, tape measures or similar measuring instruments.

•Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to make basic machine adjustments.

•Ability to safely lift, carry and manoeuvre large or heavy sheets, with assistance or handling equipment when required.

•Ability to stand, bend, reach and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the shift.

•Able to speak, read and understand English-language work and safety instructions.

•Dependable attendance and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

•Strong attention to quality, safety and production efficiency.

Preferred Experience:

•Composite panels, polyurethane foam, fiberglass, plastics, wood products or sheet-material manufacturing.

•Wide-belt sanders, panel sanders, surface-finishing or thickness-calibration equipment.

•Reading production drawings, specifications and tolerance requirements.

•Forklifts, vacuum lifts, hoists or other sheet-handling equipment.

•Basic preventive maintenance and abrasive-belt replacement.

Work Environment:

The position is based in an industrial manufacturing environment and may involve noise, dust, moving equipment and repetitive material handling. Required PPE must be worn at all times.

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• CNC Laser Cutter
• Belt Sander