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Blasting Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IMIA, LLC

Blaster

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$22 - $37/hr

Responsible for blasting any surface to the correct degree of surface preparation. Perform repairs to hoses, lines and isolated equipment. Must be capable of working in dark spaces with other ...

MDB Group

Licensed Blaster (Construction)

Winchester, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

At Maine Drilling & Blasting we work with the unity of family and the determination of business owners. As a majority Employee Owned company we provide a unique and generous array of benefits ...

Samuel, Son & Co (USA), Inc.

Grit Blaster A

Lebanon, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Must be able to remove exhausted blasting agent from blasting room. * Will use various safety equipment related to blasting applications. * Material handling - safe operation of cranes, hoists, and ...

Samuel, Son & Co (USA), Inc.

Grit Blaster A

Lebanon, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Must be able to remove exhausted blasting agent from blasting room. * Will use various safety equipment related to blasting applications. * Material handling - safe operation of cranes, hoists, and ...

Samuel

Grit Blaster A

Lebanon, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Must be able to remove exhausted blasting agent from blasting room. * Will use various safety equipment related to blasting applications. * Material handling - safe operation of cranes, hoists, and ...

Main Industries

Nonskid Craft Worker

Hampton, VA · On-site

Knowledge of how to apply/pull nonskid as well as the associated primer and stripe coatsOperating and fixing mechanical deck blasting machines (Goff)Layout and apply VLA markings is a plusFamiliarity ...

Austin Powder

Blaster

Norton, VA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Communicates blast details with all personnel on job site. * Performs duties necessary to prepare and detonate a shot safely and successfully. * Conducts pre/post Shot Safety Audits and documentation ...

Austinpowder

Blaster

Norton, VA

$18 - $24/hr

Communicates blast details with all personnel on job site. * Performs duties necessary to prepare and detonate a shot safely and successfully. * Conducts pre/post Shot Safety Audits and documentation ...

Main Industries

UHP Water Jetter/Blaster

Hampton, VA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

If you're safety-minded, dependable, and experienced operating ultra-high-pressure water blasting equipment in marine or industrial environments, we'd like to hear from you. Pay: $26.00-$32.00 per ...

Huntington Ingalls Industries

BLASTER EXPERIENCED

Newport News, VA · On-site

$74K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Role The candidate should have 2+ years of blaster experience of the blast process of surface preparation by operating blast equipment used to create a profile on a steel structure which will ...

Tidewater Staffing

Blaster

Chesapeake, VA

$17.75 - $24/hr

Perform abrasive blasting on shipyard structures including hulls, decks, bulkheads, foundations, and steel assemblies * Prepare surfaces to required shipyard and coating specifications (SSPC/NACE ...

Tidewater Staffing

Blaster

Chesapeake, VA

$17.75 - $24/hr

Perform abrasive blasting on shipyard structures including hulls, decks, bulkheads, foundations, and steel assemblies * Prepare surfaces to required shipyard and coating specifications (SSPC/NACE ...

Huntington Ingalls Industries

BLASTER ENTRY LEVEL

Newport News, VA · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Role Abrasive Blasters will be trained in surface preparation techniques by operation blast equipment designed to create an optimal profile on steel structures, ensuring proper adhesion of ...

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Blasting information

See Virginia salary details

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$18

$24

How much do blasting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for blasting in Virginia is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a blaster?

To excel as a Blaster, you require knowledge of explosives handling, safety protocols, blasting techniques, and typically need relevant certifications or licensing, such as those from MSHA or OSHA. Familiarity with blasting machines, initiation systems, and specialized software for blast design and planning is important. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant execution of blasting operations in mining, construction, or demolition environments.

What is the difference between Blasting vs Drilling?

AspectBlastingDrilling
Required CredentialsBlasting certifications, safety trainingDrilling licenses, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentExplosive handling sites, mines, quarriesConstruction sites, mining, exploration
Industry UsageMining, quarrying, constructionMining, construction, oil & gas

Blasting and drilling are closely related in the mining and construction industries. Blasting involves the controlled use of explosives to break rock, while drilling involves creating holes for explosives or other purposes. Both roles require safety certifications and are performed in similar environments, often overlapping in mining and quarrying operations. Understanding the differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within these industries.

Is blasting a hard job?

Blasting is a physically demanding job that involves handling explosives, working in potentially hazardous environments, and following strict safety protocols. It requires technical skills, proper training, and often certification, making it a challenging and safety-sensitive occupation.

How much does blasting pay?

Blasting workers typically earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as blasting or explosives handling licenses. Pay can vary based on the industry, with higher wages often found in construction, mining, or demolition sectors, and may include overtime due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

Do blasting make good money?

Blasting jobs can offer competitive wages, especially for experienced workers with certifications such as Blaster or Explosives License. Salaries vary by industry, location, and experience, with some positions paying above average due to the hazardous nature of the work and specialized skills required.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in blasting, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in blasting often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict safety protocols, managing environmental impacts like dust and vibration, and coordinating closely with other site teams to minimize disruptions. Effective communication and thorough planning are essential, as is ongoing training to stay updated on regulations and best practices. Many employers provide safety workshops and utilize advanced equipment to help workers overcome these challenges and maintain a safe, efficient worksite.

What is a blasting job?

Blasting jobs involve the controlled use of explosives or other methods to break rock, earth, or other materials for construction, mining, or demolition purposes. Workers in this field, often called blasters or blasting technicians, are responsible for planning, setting up, and safely executing blasts according to strict safety regulations. They work closely with engineers and site managers to ensure that blasts are effective and minimize environmental impact. Blasting jobs require specialized training and certification to handle explosives safely and legally.

What are popular job titles related to Blasting jobs in Virginia?

For Blasting jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Blasting jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Blasting jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Blasting jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Blasting job openings:

Blasting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Blasting job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,054 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Licensed Blaster (Construction)

Maine Drilling & Blasting Inc

Winchester, VA

$17.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Maine Drilling & Blasting rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Come work with the best! At Maine Drilling & Blasting we work with the unity of family and the determination of business owners. As a majority Employee Owned company we provide a unique and generous array of benefits including two retirement plans, an Employer-contributed Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and company matched 401(k). In addition to health, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits, we also offer training and development opportunities. The sky is the limit, come rock your career at MD&B!

Our core values of Respect, Fairness, Honesty, and Responsibility provide a firm cultural foundation as we relate to customers and each other as we Make it Happen!

LICENSED BLASTER-

Performs blasting activity in accordance with job program to achieve anticipated production. This position supports the direction of the Blasting Supervisor and Project Superintendent. Reports blasting results and status to Project Superintendent or Blasting Supervisor for input and direction.

Responsibilities:

  • Performs assigned blasting activities.
  • Works as a job site blaster and receives direction from Blasting Supervisor and/or Project Superintendent
  • Provides input on blast-related activities to aid direct supervisor in plans
  • Identifies blast site problems and resolves with Blasting Supervisor or Project Superintendent, if necessary
  • Verifies that pre-blast inspections have been conducted prior to blasting
  • Performs all necessary pre-blast tests and seismograph setup as needed
  • Understands and follows all Company safety policies and practices
  • Places supply and material requests through Blasting Supervisor or Project Superintendent as needed
  • Monitors the relationship between blast pattern and type of digging and reports results to Blasting Supervisor or Project Superintendent
  • Documents use of explosives and completes required inventory paperwork
  • Expected to transport explosives across state lines, as needed
  • Is responsible for completing field accounting reports and required trip manifest forms as needed
  • All other duties as assigned
  • Attends company meetings as required
  • Participates in daily heads up safety meetings

Qualifications

  • High School Degree

  • Minimum of two years experience working with drills and explosives

  • Must have completed Blaster I training and will be required to take Blaster II training

  • Possess a Valid Blasting Certificate in states that require this

  • Must have good communications skills

  • Must hold a valid CDL with hazmat endorsement and is a Company-qualified driver (able to transport explosives across state lines) and has a good driving record as defined by the Company insurance carrier

  • Out of town/state travel

  • Must successfully pass a criminal background check with ATF

  • Has a thorough understanding of blasting techniques: blast design, loading holes, select and operate electric and non-electric detonators, demonstrate grade & elevation readings, secure blast site, identify explosives, demonstrate pop shooting

  • Proficient in all areas of drill operations

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to perform essential functions of the position
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs., 30 - 40% of the time
  • Work on uneven and loose surfaces in varying weather environments
  • Stooping and bending 30 – 40% of the time

    Skeptical about advancement opportunities? Check out these videos:

    • Dante (CST) talks about what it’s like to work at MD&B: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrSWPW4Qbgo
    • Dan (CEO) talks about career advancement opportunities: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvloIft9KPY

    Does this sound like you? If it does, then go ahead and hit that APPLY button because we cannot wait to meet you!

    What Maine Drilling & Blasting employees say

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