Job Description of a Blaster

Blasters, also known as explosives workers or ordnance handling experts, are in charge of the preparation and use of explosives at work sites. These can be construction zones, underground, pits or quarries.

Purpose

Blasters must determine the strength and pattern required in a blast and the amount and type of explosives needed to separate structures or fracture solid surfaces made of stone. They are also in charge of the preparation, safety and detonation of all explosives.

Education

Blasters need at least a high school diploma and may need additional vocational or on-the-job training. Other employers may require blasters to have a two or four year degree.

Work

Dangerous tasks can include handling, assembling, inserting and packing explosives. Less dangerous tasks include planning, examining sites and record keeping.

Skills

Because blasters work with designs as well as people, they should have good interpretation and strategy skills as well as good communication skills.

Salary

As of 2010, blasters with four or fewer years of experience average about $22,000 to $32,000 a year. Blasters with more than 20 years of experience can make up to $80,000 a year.

References

• CareerPlanner.com: Blaster
• EarnMyDegree.com: Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts and Blasters
• PayScale.com