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Blaster Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Industrial Painter

Sherwood, OR

$25 - $31/hr

Maintain paint booths, blasting equipment, spray guns, and related tools in good working order. * Follow safety procedures related to painting, sandblasting, hazardous materials handling, and ...

Legacy Talent Search

Sandblaster

Portland, OR

$20 - $24/hr

... after blasting to ensure proper surface preparation and quality standards are met. · Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of sandblasting equipment and work areas. · Follow all safety ...

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All JobsBlaster JobsBlaster Jobs in Portland, OR

Blaster information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$21

$35

How much do blaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for blaster in Portland, OR is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a blaster?

Blasters are skilled professionals who handle the use of explosives in industries such as mining, construction, and demolition. They are responsible for planning, setting up, and safely detonating explosive charges to break rock, demolish structures, or clear land. Blasters must follow strict safety protocols, calculate the amount of explosives needed, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Their work is critical for projects that require controlled explosions to achieve specific outcomes.

What does a blaster do?

A blaster, also known as an explosives worker, uses explosives and detonators to demolish structures or remove earth in a quarry, mine, or similar site. As a blaster, your responsibilities include assessing the needs of the demolition project to determine how much needs to be removed or destroyed. You then drill holes in rock or structural supports, pack the holes with the required explosives, and oversee the detonation. Blasters also need to monitor the safety of everyone on site during the blasting procedure by ensuring that the area is vacant and employees within the demolition area have received a proper warning.

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

To thrive as a Blaster, you need a solid understanding of explosives handling, safety protocols, and site preparation, typically supported by completion of relevant training courses and certification (such as a blasting license). Familiarity with blasting machines, detonators, and specialized safety equipment is crucial for daily operations. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are outstanding soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient project completion in high-risk environments.

What are some common safety challenges faced by blasters, and how are they addressed on the job?

Blasters often encounter safety challenges such as handling explosives, managing blast site security, and ensuring proper communication with the team. To address these, strict adherence to safety protocols, regular safety training, and use of personal protective equipment are enforced. Blasters also work closely with site supervisors, engineers, and safety officers to plan and execute blasts safely, minimizing risks to personnel and property. Ongoing risk assessments and compliance with regulatory guidelines are essential parts of the role.

What is the difference between Blaster vs Demolition Worker?

AspectBlasterDemolition Worker
CertificationsExplosive licenses, safety trainingSafety training, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, quarryingBuilding demolition, site clearing
Industry UsageMining, construction, quarryingConstruction, renovation, deconstruction

While both Blasters and Demolition Workers handle explosives, Blasters specialize in safely setting and detonating explosives in mining and construction projects, requiring specific licenses. Demolition Workers focus on tearing down structures using various methods, including controlled explosions, but do not typically handle the explosive setup themselves. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

How much does a licensed blaster make?

A licensed blaster typically earns between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the blasting projects. Salaries can also vary based on the industry sector, such as construction or mining, and whether the worker is employed full-time or subcontracted. Certification and safety training are essential for higher-paying roles in this field.
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Blaster jobs near you
Infographic showing various Blaster job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,134 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Production Specialist (Blaster - Swing Shift)

Tualatin, OR • On-site

Anodize Solutions
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Anodize Solutionsexternal

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Production Specialist (Blaster - Swing Shift)
Monday-Thursday, 2:30 PM to 1:00 AM
Hourly Pay: $18.00/hour + $1.00/hour Shift Differential
Our team has over 100 years of combined experience in the metal finishing industry, and we work with customers that build a variety of products including rifle scopes, paintball guns and knives. Our work takes place at our newly remodeled facility in Tualatin, Oregon, where you'll work on a four-day/ten-hour schedule.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical and Dental Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness and Life Insurance
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation Days
  • 401K Retirement Plan with a Company Match

We are currently seeking a person to join our manufacturing team. As a Blaster, you'll operate equipment that cleans, removes contaminants, and improves the surface quality of our parts. This role helps ensure the durability and desired appearance of our products. You'll work in a dynamic environment, collaborating with team members to meet production targets, with opportunities to move into Line Operator, Team Lead or Supervisor positions down the road. No previous experience needed - all training will be given as needed.
In This Role You'll:
  • Sit at small hand blasting cabinet or stand at an automated shot blasting machine
  • Load and unload parts from the machine
  • Use a blasting tool to deburr and finish product
  • Inspect completed parts to ensure finish is consistent and meets customer requirements
  • Complete quality checks to verify finish
  • Work safely and comply with all safety protocols
  • Perform other miscellaneous job duties and related functions as needed

Skills and Experience You'll Need:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to follow instructions and work independently
  • Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and good manual dexterity
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Previous experience in a production or warehouse environment is a plus
  • Desire to be a team player, learn new skills and advance within our Company

Anodize Solutions, 12620 Leveton Drive, Tualatin, Oregon 97062
We advocate for the employment opportunities and advancements of all individuals regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. We resolutely believe all aspects and privileges of employment should be determined by skills and behaviors, not personal identities.
* With our commitment to making our application process and workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities, we will provide reasonable accommodation, upon request, for an individual applicant to participate in the job application process
* Anodize Solutions is a drug-free workplace. All final candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
* Anodize Solutions complies with all applicable FAR & DFAR regulations.
* We hire U.S. citizens and persons lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. All new employees must complete an INS Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9). Positions may require a deemed export control license for compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Placement is contingent on our ability to apply for and obtain an export control license on your behalf.

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