Job Role Description

Construction & Skilled Trade > Blasting Assistant

Salary National Average

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Short Description:

A Blasting Assistant is responsible for supporting blasting operations by preparing materials, setting up equipment, and ensuring work areas follow safety and regulatory requirements. They assist with loading, positioning, and securing blasting materials under the guidance of a certified blaster. The role involves monitoring site conditions, maintaining tools and supplies, and helping document blasting activities. Blasting Assistants contribute to safe, efficient, and accurate execution of blasting projects in construction, mining, or demolition settings. Strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for success in this role.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Assist with preparing blasting areas by clearing debris, setting up barriers, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols
  • Load, transport, and handle explosives or blasting materials under supervision and in accordance with regulatory guidelines
  • Set up blasting equipment, including detonators, leads, and firing systems, as directed by the Blaster-in-Charge
  • Help drill, clean, and measure blast holes to meet project specifications
  • Place and secure explosive charges, stemming materials, and accessories in designated drill holes
  • Monitor the blasting site before, during, and after detonation to maintain safe working conditions
  • Assist with post-blast inspections, including scaling loose material and documenting blast results
  • Maintain tools, equipment, and blasting supplies to ensure proper condition and readiness
  • Follow strict safety, environmental, and operational procedures at all times
  • Communicate with site supervisors and team members to coordinate blasting activities and ensure smooth workflow

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational training in construction or mining preferred
  • Certification: Ability to obtain blasting assistant certifications or permits as required by state or federal regulations
  • Experience: Prior experience in construction, mining, quarrying, or heavy industrial environments preferred
  • Physical Ability: Capable of lifting heavy materials, working in rugged outdoor conditions, and performing strenuous manual labor
  • Safety Awareness: Strong understanding of safety protocols, PPE usage, and hazard recognition in high-risk environments
  • Technical Skills: Familiarity with drilling equipment, blasting tools, or heavy machinery is beneficial
  • Communication: Clear verbal communication for coordinating with blasters, equipment operators, and site supervisors
  • Reliability: Strong work ethic, punctuality, and ability to follow detailed instructions with precision

Job Zones

  • Education: These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
  • Related Experience: Some previous work-related skills, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
  • Job Training: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
  • Job Zone Examples: These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include sheet metal workers, forest fire fighters, customer service representatives, physical therapist aides, salespersons (retail), and tellers.
  • Specific Vocational Preparation in years:  3 months to 1 year preparation (4.0 to < 6.0)

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