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Apprentice Blaster Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

PAINTER

Chicago, IL · On-site

$56.30/hr

... wire brushing, air blasting and power washing • Erects scaffolding and ladders to perform ... S. Department of Labor registered painting apprenticeship training program and journeyman status;

Maintenance ; Painter

South Holland, IL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

... blast, or other methods. · Masks, removes, covers, or otherwise protects furniture, hardware, trim ... General Job Requirements · Completion of a formal apprenticeship program, previous experience, or ...

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Hvac Installers

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $50/hr

Trade school, apprenticeship, or NATE certs. * Experience with top brands (we're Carrier Factory ... big, and have a blast doing it. If you're ready to join Chicagoland's fastest-growing HVAC ...

New

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NATE certification, trade school, or apprenticeship cred. * Experience with top brands (we're ... blast every shift. Become a King Comfort Hero and build a legacy in the trades! Ready to dive in?

New

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NATE certification, trade school, or apprenticeship cred. * Experience with top brands (we're ... blast every shift. Become a King Comfort Hero and build a legacy in the trades! Ready to dive in?

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Hvac Installers

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$25 - $50/hr

Trade school, apprenticeship, or NATE certs. * Experience with top brands (we're Carrier Factory ... big, and have a blast doing it. If you're ready to join Chicagoland's fastest-growing HVAC ...

Be Seen First

NATE certification, trade school, or apprenticeship cred. * Experience with top brands (we're ... blast every shift. Become a King Comfort Hero and build a legacy in the trades! Ready to dive in?

Apprentice Blaster information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice blaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice blaster in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice blaster?

Apprentice Blasters are entry-level workers who assist with preparing, loading, and detonating explosives in mining, construction, or demolition projects. They work under the supervision of experienced blasters to learn safe handling and operational procedures for explosives. Their duties often include setting up blast sites, maintaining equipment, and ensuring all safety protocols are followed. This role is essential for gaining the skills and certifications needed to become a fully qualified blaster.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice blaster?

To thrive as an Apprentice Blaster, you need a solid understanding of basic math, mechanical aptitude, and safety awareness, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with blasting tools, detonation systems, and safety regulations—sometimes requiring certification such as an explosives handling permit—is essential. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well under supervision are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient blasting operations, minimizing risk and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What are some typical challenges an apprentice blaster might face during their training period?

As an Apprentice Blaster, you may encounter challenges such as mastering strict safety protocols, learning to handle explosives responsibly under supervision, and adapting to physically demanding outdoor environments. You’ll also need to develop strong communication skills to coordinate effectively with experienced blasters, engineers, and site supervisors. Staying attentive to detail and following instructions precisely are crucial to ensure safety and success on every project.

What is the difference between Apprentice Blaster vs Blasting Technician?

AspectApprentice BlasterBlasting Technician
Required CertificationsOSHA Blast Safety Certification, Basic Blasting LicenseOSHA Blast Safety Certification, Advanced Blasting License
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, quarryingMining operations, demolition sites, construction
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with blasting setup, learning safety protocolsPlanning, executing, and supervising blasting operations

In summary, an Apprentice Blaster is in training, assisting with blasting tasks and gaining certifications, while a Blasting Technician is a more experienced professional responsible for planning and executing blasting operations in various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Blaster jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Blaster jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Blaster jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Apprentice Blaster jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Blaster jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Blaster jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Apprentice Blaster jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Apprentice Blaster job openings:

Industrial Cleaner- Water blaster, Operators with K2 Industrial Services, Inc.

ASRC Industrial

Joliet, IL • On-site

$17.74/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company OverviewK2 Industrial Services, Inc., is a full-service industrial cleaning company headquartered in Highland, Indiana. We are committed to safety, operational excellence, and customer service. K2 Industrial Services, Inc., offers turnkey solutions supporting routine maintenance, turnarounds/outages, and capital projects. K2 Industrial Services' portfolio of industrial service capabilities provides our clients with an array of benefits. Serving all major industry sectors from a network of facilities, our integrated approach means clients have fewer vendors to manage, administrative tasks are diminished, project timeliness and scheduling are improved, and costs are reduced.K2 Industrial Services Inc. is part of a family of companies unified by purpose to deliver safe, reliable solutions to our clients' unique challenges. We are committed to providing superior service and leaving things better than we found them.  Job Overview: Industrial Cleaner – Water Blaster / Operator role offers an opportunity to gain hands on experience with high pressure water blasting, industrial cleaning, and specialized equipment operation. In this position, you will assist with cleaning machinery, tanks, piping systems, and industrial surfaces at power plants, refineries, and other industrial facilities. You will receive on the job training, develop valuable technical skills, and work alongside experienced professionals in a safety – focused environment. Our crews perform industrial cleaning and maintenance services using high – pressure water blasting equipment, vacuum systems, and other specialized tools to support safe and effective operations. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands – on work, learning new skills, and working as part of a team in an industrial setting. Perform industrial cleaning at power plants, refineries, and millsOperate high-pressure water blasting equipmentUse high-velocity vacuum hoses and industrial cleaning toolsLearn to operate water blast guns, lances, and automated cleaning equipmentAssist with vacuum trucks, lifts, and other industrial equipmentWork as part of a team in fast-paced industrial environmentsClean and maintain equipment after each jobFollow all K2 safety policies and procedures Requirements and Education:No Experience is necessary, Training will be providedStrong work ethic and willingness to learnAbility to work well on a teamWillingness to work overtime when needed Preferred Requirements and Education:Valid driver's licenseAble to pass a drug screening Benefits:Industrial Cleaning Apprenticeship Advancement ProgramPaid Holiday'sVacation and PTO401k & retirement programs EEO StatementK2 Industrial Services, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, color, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, national origin, religion, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other factor prohibited by applicable law.