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Avalanche Blasting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mammoth Mountain

Director, Ski Patrol

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$123K - $133K/yr

Current California Avalanche Blaster license. Pay: $123,932.02 - $133,655.840 per year To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with ...

Alterra

Director, Ski Patrol

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$123K - $133K/yr

Current California Avalanche Blaster license. Pay: $123,932.02 - $133,655.840 per year To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with ...

Eleven Experience

Snow Safety Manager

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$6.0K/mo

Work as a certified Blaster-in-Charge during avalanche mitigation * Perform operations manager and/or guiding duties as required Ongoing * Oversee weather, snowpack, and avalanche database entry

Alyeska Resort

Ski Patrol Level 3

Girdwood, AK · On-site

$27/hr

Assists in explosives handling to blast for avalanche control [under supervision of experienced blaster]. * Participate in speed control and safety enforcement. * Able to locate transceiver quickly.

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Avalanche Blasting information

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How much do avalanche blasting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for avalanche blasting in the United States is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an avalanche blaster do?

An Avalanche Blaster is responsible for triggering controlled avalanches using explosives to prevent dangerous, unplanned snow slides in mountainous areas. Their work ensures the safety of ski resorts, highways, and communities located in avalanche-prone regions. Avalanche Blasters assess snowpack conditions, plan blasting operations, and use specialized equipment to safely detonate charges. This proactive approach helps to stabilize snow on slopes and reduces the risk of natural avalanches.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an avalanche blaster, and why are they important?

To excel as an Avalanche Blaster, you need expertise in snow science, risk assessment, and explosives handling, often supported by certifications in avalanche control and relevant safety training. Familiarity with tools such as remote avalanche control systems, GPS devices, and specialized blasting equipment is crucial. Exceptional decision-making, teamwork, and clear communication are vital soft skills for operating safely in hazardous, high-pressure environments. These abilities are essential for minimizing avalanche risks, ensuring personal and team safety, and protecting public infrastructure in mountainous regions.

What are some common challenges faced by avalanche blasters during a typical season?

Avalanche blasters often work in extreme weather conditions, which can make both travel and communication challenging. The job requires careful planning and coordination with ski patrols, mountain operations, and weather teams to ensure safety and effectiveness. Another challenge is the need to remain highly vigilant while handling explosives and working in high-risk avalanche terrain. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as blasters frequently collaborate with colleagues to assess snowpack stability and execute controlled detonations. Adapting quickly to changing weather and snow conditions is a core part of the job.

What is the difference between Avalanche Blasting vs Blasting Technician?

AspectAvalanche BlastingBlasting Technician
Required CertificationsBlasting Certification, Avalanche Safety TrainingBlasting Certification, General Safety Training
Work EnvironmentMountainous, snow-covered terrains, remote locationsConstruction sites, mining, demolition
Industry UsageSnow avalanche control, mountain safetyMining, construction, quarrying

While both roles involve controlled explosive use, Avalanche Blasting focuses on preventing avalanches in mountainous regions using specialized safety protocols. Blasting Technicians work across various industries like mining and construction, handling different types of blasting projects. The key differences lie in the environment and specific safety procedures, but both require blasting certifications and safety training.

More about Avalanche Blasting jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Avalanche Blasting jobs?

The most popular types of Avalanche Blasting jobs are:

What states have the most Avalanche Blasting jobs?

States with the most job openings for Avalanche Blasting jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Avalanche Blasting jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Avalanche Blasting jobs are:

Avalanche Blasting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Avalanche Blasting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,392 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Manager, Avalanche Forecasting, Winter 26-27

Mammoth Lakes, CA • On-site

Alterra
Environmental Consulting Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Alterraexternal

$85K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Seasonal

At Mammoth Mountain, you will live the dream!

Work and play in the majestic mountains with a free season pass that opens the doors to adventure at all Alterra Resorts. Your whole family can share this excitement with free skiing for dependents and a range of valuable discounts. It is more than a job; it is an opportunity to embrace the beauty of Mammoth Lakes, California.

Benefits and perks of your adventure here:

  • Ski passes for dependents (spouse/child(ren)/domestic partners) includes free skiing at other Alterra Resorts
  • Free skiing at all Alterra Resorts
  • Ski/snowboarding lessons discounts
  • Equipment Rental discount
  • Friends and Family vouchers
  • Retail & Food discount
  • 401k with company match

*Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check

A little about this position:

  • Working under the direction of the Assistant Director Snow safety, collect and analyze weather and snowpack data to support avalanche forecast products at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. Collaborate with Assistant Director Snow Safety and Ski Patrol Leadership to make avalanche risk management decisions for avalanche workers and ski area operations at Mammoth. Provide avalanche safety training to the Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol under the dirextion of the Assistant Director, Snow Safety. Mentor and assist front line Patrol staff with daily duties when appropriate.
  • This role combines field leadership with administrative oversight and requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, expert skiing ability, strong downhill mountain biking ability, and the ability to lead effectively. The Patrol Manager works closely with the Assistant Director, Snow Safety and Director of Patrol to coordinate staffing, training, avalanche mitigation support, operational priorities, and emergency response readiness across the mountain.

Requirements:

  • EMT, EMR, WFR or equivalent to 80-hour minimum first aid certification
  • Current CPR training and certification
  • Meet or exceed expectations and experience of/or equivalent to Master Patroller at MMSP
  • Extensive avalanche mitigation experience utilizing explosives, artillery and/or remote avalanche control systems
  • Current licensed blaster in State of California or eligibility and willingness to obtain
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze snowpack and weather information to make safety sensitive decisions
  • Ability to make operational and forecasting decisions in the absence of the Assistant Director Snow Safety
  • Advanced computer skills with familiarity performing tasks using MS Office products, database management and mapping products
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Expert skiing skills with comfort skiing in avalanche terrain in all snow conditions
  • Minimum of 5 winter seasons working as an avalanche professional
  • Pro 2 or equivalent avalanche course certification recognized by the American Avalanche Association or Canadian Avalanche Association
  • Minimum 5 years avalanche forecasting experience for a ski area operation, mechanized skiing operation, highway or industrial operation
  • Expert level skills operating a snowmobile in inclement weather conditions
  • Experience as an avalanche educator or in a training role within an avalanche operation
  • Experience in avalanche search and rescue, including having participated in organized rescue practice annually
  • Demonstrated commitment to annual continuing professional development

Pay: $85,489.17 - $90,916.88 per year

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.

Mammoth Mountain is an equal opportunity employer.

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