Blaster/Explosive Worker

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Work Tasks

• Use blasting to tear down buildings
• Break up materials like coal, rock, and concrete
• Choose the best and safest way to blast
• Put explosives in place and cover them with blasting mats
• Work outside and in mines for demolition companies, mines, quarries, construction companies, and the government
• Use explosive materials, drilling equipment, and other tools

Salary, Size & Growth

• $45,500 average per year ($22.00 per hour)
• A small occupation (5,700 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.4% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: Experience in mining, oil, construction, or the military
• Certification/Licensing: A certificate or license is required in many states.