Blaster

Job Description

Responsible for safe and efficient blasting for mining needs, which include: study blast pattern to determine amount, type, and location of explosive charge required; mark pattern of drill holes and coordinate drilling activities as to depth and placement of blast holes. Prime and load blast holes with proper amount of product whether it be ammonium nitrate and fuel oil (ANFO), packaged product, or an emulsion blends. Understand the proper timing and use of electronic and non-electronic detonators including down hole and surface delays. Inspect blasting area to ensure that safety practices and rules are observed and signal workers to clear area. Responsible for after shot inspection of blast area to ensure complete detonation. Maintain accurate inventory log of all blasts and material used.

Job Responsibilities

• Performance of duties in accordance with S.O.P and supervisor instruction to achieve production goals.
• Demonstrate the ability to safely, carefully, and efficiently handle explosives and equipment under any conditions.
• Responsible for accurate and thorough pre-shift inspection of blasting equipment and area. Continually check, monitor, and inspect equipment and area.
• Responsible for the lay-out of the blast hole, measurement of the depth of the blast hole, prime loading and tying of the blast hole, stemming the blast hole, and tying the shot.
• Responsible for after-shot inspection of the blast.
• Responsible for maintaining an accurate daily inventory of blast log and blasting supplies.
• Punctuality and regular attendance are required.
• Compliance with all company policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, safety, confidentiality and environmental policies.
• Compliance with all mine Safety (MSHA) requirements and Federal regulations.
• Meet or exceed established performance expectations set by management.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license issued by the state.
• Work without significant risk of harm to self and others.
• Expedite and trace orders until delivery is complete or canceled.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Employee must have sufficient education to read and write instructions, perform simple mathematical calculations and keep records.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in blasting is preferred.
• Ability to communicate both orally and in writing, including the ability to read and understand blasting and drill manuals and prints.
• Possess strong problem solving skills.
• Must be able to scale off maps and apply trigonometry to blasting patterns.
• Knowledge of theory for directional and sequential shots and must be able to determine and change powder factors and solve delay function problems.
• Willingness to work in adverse weather conditions required.
• Ability to function within the qualifications outlined in the attached physical demands sheets.
• Must be a self-starter with the ability to work with others in a team environment and also free of constant supervision.
• Must be available for shift work, overtime, holidays, and weekends.
• Progression through wage scale is contingent upon satisfactory completion of attached checklists.

Skills

Reporting Relationships

Reports to General Mine Foreman

Legislative Requirements

Language Requirements

Travel Requirements