Explosives Worker

Your Fit

Income

$59K

Preparation

Some

Growth

1.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Explosives Worker?

An Explosives Worker handles, stores, and deploys explosives for construction, mining, demolition, or other industrial purposes. They are trained professionals responsible for the safe and effective use of explosive materials to break rock, excavate earth, or demolish structures.

Sample job titles:

Blast Hole Driller, Blaster, Explosive Technician, Powderman

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Explosives Worker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Explosives Worker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$45K per year	$50K per year	$59K per year	$80K per year	$104K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $9.61K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does an Explosives Worker do?

Work environment

Explosives Workers often work in outdoor environments such as construction sites, mines, quarries, or demolition areas. The job requires travel to various locations and can involve working in remote or isolated areas. Safety is paramount, and workers must adhere to strict guidelines and regulations to prevent accidents and injuries.

Quick task list

Prepares and positions explosive charges.
Calculates the amount and type of explosives needed.
Detonates explosives to achieve desired outcomes.
Ensures safety protocols are followed before, during, and after explosions.
Inspects and maintains equipment used for handling explosives.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Construction Demolition: Using explosives for controlled demolition of buildings and structures.
Mining and Quarrying: Employing explosives for extracting minerals and resources.
Underwater Blasting: Specializing in explosives use in underwater environments, such as for harbor development.
Pyrotechnics: Working with explosives for entertainment purposes, like fireworks displays.

Description

Explosives Workers play a critical role in industries where breaking up rock or demolishing structures is necessary. They need a thorough understanding of the types of explosives, their properties, and safe handling procedures. Precision is key in this role, as the worker must calculate the correct amount and placement of explosives to achieve the desired effect without causing unintended damage or harm.

The job requires a combination of technical knowledge and physical dexterity. Workers must be able to read and interpret plans and diagrams, and also handle equipment and materials skillfully. They often work as part of a team and must communicate effectively with other crew members, including engineers and safety officers.

Ongoing education and training are important in this field, as technology and safety regulations evolve. Explosives Workers must be adaptable and continuously update their knowledge and skills to remain effective and compliant in their roles.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The challenge and responsibility of handling powerful materials safely and effectively.
Contributing to important construction, mining, and demolition projects.
The excitement and uniqueness of working with explosives.

You might make a good Explosives Worker if you are...

Detail-oriented, with a strong focus on safety and precision.
Comfortable handling powerful and potentially dangerous materials.
Good at mathematics and calculations for determining explosive quantities and placements.
Able to work in a team and communicate effectively.
Interested in a dynamic and physically active job role.

Pros:

Unique and challenging work experience.
Opportunities to work in various industries and environments.
High responsibility and the potential for career advancement.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous job conditions.
Irregular work hours and travel to remote locations.
Stressful work environment due to the nature of handling explosives.

How to become an Explosives Worker

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Many Explosives Workers receive on-the-job training, but some also attend vocational schools or participate in apprenticeship programs. Specialized training or certification in handling explosives may also be necessary, depending on the industry and regulations.

High school preparation

Courses:

Chemistry and physics to understand the properties of explosives.
Mathematics for precise calculations and measurements.
Technical education or shop classes to develop practical skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participation in science clubs or engineering-focused groups.
First aid and safety training programs.
Team sports or physical fitness activities to build stamina and physical resilience.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training or certification programs in explosives handling or demolition technology.
Apprenticeships or entry-level positions in industries that use explosives.
Ongoing safety and handling certification courses as required by industry regulations.

More resources

International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE) - Offers certification, training, and resources for explosives professionals.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides guidelines and resources for safe handling of explosives.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) - Offers information on federal regulations and licenses for explosives.
National Demolition Association - Provides education and networking opportunities in the demolition industry.

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