Construction Blaster

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced, licensed Construction Blaster to perform and oversee blasting operations on heavy civil and site construction projects. This position is responsible for the safe handling, loading, placement, and detonation of explosives used for rock excavation and site preparation.

The ideal candidate will have at least 4–5 years of hands-on blasting experience, a current blaster license, strong knowledge of drilling and blasting practices, and a proven commitment to job site safety. This is a field-based position requiring the ability to work outdoors in varying conditions and coordinate closely with project superintendents, foremen, equipment operators, and drilling crews.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and execute blasting operations for rock excavation and heavy civil construction projects.
  
• Review project conditions, blast plans, drilling patterns, hole depths, burden, spacing, and other site-specific requirements.
  
• Safely load and initiate explosives in accordance with approved blast plans and applicable regulations.
  
• Determine appropriate explosive quantities, loading methods, timing sequences, and initiation systems based on site conditions.
  
• Inspect drilled holes before loading and identify conditions that could impact blast performance or safety.
  
• Maintain control and accountability of explosives, detonators, and blasting materials while on the job site.
  
• Establish and maintain required blast zones and ensure personnel and equipment are clear before detonation.
  
• Coordinate blasting activities with superintendents, foremen, drill operators, equipment operators, and other field personnel.
  
• Conduct pre-blast safety meetings and communicate blast signals and procedures to affected personnel.
  
• Monitor blast results and make adjustments to improve fragmentation, control vibration, minimize flyrock, and maintain production goals.
  
• Identify and safely address misfires or other blasting-related issues in accordance with established procedures.
  
• Maintain accurate blasting logs, explosive inventory records, shot reports, and other required documentation.
  
• Inspect blasting equipment and report damaged or unsafe equipment immediately.
  
• Comply with all federal, state, and local regulations governing explosives and blasting operations.
  
• Follow company safety policies and actively promote a strong safety culture on every project.
  

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Current and valid Blaster License required.
  
• Minimum 4–5 years of professional blasting experience, preferably within heavy civil, excavation, quarry, grading, or site development construction.
  
• Demonstrated experience with rock blasting and controlled blasting techniques.
  
• Strong working knowledge of explosives, detonators, initiation systems, blast patterns, and drilling operations.
  
• Knowledge of applicable OSHA, ATF, MSHA, state, and local blasting requirements, as applicable to the work being performed.
  
• Ability to read construction plans, site drawings, blast plans, and drilling layouts.
  
• Ability to accurately calculate explosive loads and follow established blast designs.
  
• Strong understanding of blast safety, vibration control, flyrock prevention, and blast-zone management.
  
• Ability to communicate effectively with field crews and project leadership.
  
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safe work practices.
  
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
  
• Must be able to successfully meet all company and regulatory requirements associated with handling explosives.
  

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, dust, mud, and other construction-site conditions.
  
• Ability to regularly stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, and work on uneven terrain.
  
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment associated with blasting operations.
  
• Comfortable working around heavy equipment, drilling operations, active excavation, and rock blasting.
  
• Must be available to work varying schedules based on project needs, including early mornings, overtime, and occasional weekends.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing blasting operations on heavy civil/site development projects.
  
• Experience working alongside drilling, grading, excavation, and crushing operations.
  
• Experience with controlled blasting near structures, utilities, roadways, or other sensitive areas.
  
• Strong record of safe blasting operations with thorough documentation and regulatory compliance.
  

Benefits

Benefits

Grade A Construction offers a competitive benefits package for eligible full-time employees, including:

• Competitive pay based on experience
  
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  
• 401(k) retirement plan
  
• Paid time off (PTO)
  
• Paid holidays
  
• Company-paid life insurance
  
• Opportunities for overtime
  
• Career advancement and leadership opportunities
  
• Long-term career opportunities with a growing heavy civil construction company