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Explosive Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Globe Metallurgical

Dozer Operator

Corbin, KY · On-site

Dozer Operator Ferroglobe is one of the world's leading suppliers of silicon metal, silicon-based ... explosives, fumes or airborne particles * While performing the duties of this job, the employee is ...

Ferroglobe USA Mining

Dozer Operator

Corbin, KY · On-site

$22.60/hr

Who we are What you will do As a Dozer Operator at Ferroglobe USA Mining, you will play a vital ... explosives, fumes or airborne particles * While performing the duties of this job, the employee is ...

Ferroglobe PLC

Dozer Operator

Corbin, KY · On-site

Who we are What you will do As a Dozer Operator at Ferroglobe USA Mining, you will play a vital ... explosives, fumes or airborne particles * While performing the duties of this job, the employee is ...

RPMGlobal

Control Systems Engineer

Owensboro, KY · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

... explosives, manufacturing and blasting technology, delivering innovative solutions to the mining ... Support development and optimization of alarm management strategies, operator interfaces, and ...

Dyno Nobel

Reliability Mechanical Engineer

Graham, KY

$76K - $101K/yr

Who We Are Dyno Nobel is a global leader in commercial explosives, manufacturing and blasting ... Review vendor data, drawings, and operating manuals * Provide field engineering support during ...

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All JobsExplosive Operator JobsExplosive Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Explosive Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$20

$32

How much do explosive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive operator in Kentucky is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an explosive operator?

Explosive Operators are skilled workers responsible for handling, preparing, and detonating explosives used in various industries, such as mining, construction, demolition, and military applications. They follow strict safety protocols to ensure the safe storage, transportation, and use of explosive materials. Their duties often include assembling charges, setting up blasting equipment, and monitoring blasts to minimize risks to people, property, and the environment. Extensive training and adherence to legal regulations are essential requirements for this job. Explosive Operators must also be detail-oriented and capable of working in high-pressure, potentially hazardous situations.

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

To thrive as an Explosive Operator, you need a solid understanding of explosives handling, safety regulations, and hazardous materials protocols, often supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with detonation equipment, safety gear, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Keen attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, precise, and efficient handling of explosives, minimizing risks to people and property.

What are some common challenges faced by explosive operators and how are they addressed in the workplace?

Explosive Operators often face challenges related to maintaining strict safety protocols, managing stress in high-risk environments, and ensuring precise handling of materials. To address these challenges, workplaces provide thorough safety training, enforce rigorous procedural checklists, and encourage open communication within tightly coordinated teams. Regular drills, mental health support, and ongoing education are also common practices to help operators stay prepared and confident while minimizing risks.

What is the difference between Explosive Operator vs Blasting Technician?

AspectExplosive OperatorBlasting Technician
Required CertificationsExplosive License, Safety TrainingExplosive License, Safety Training
Work EnvironmentConstruction, Mining, Demolition sitesMining, Quarrying, Construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firmsMining companies, quarry operators
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Explosive Operators and Blasting Technicians both handle explosives in construction and mining environments, requiring similar certifications and safety training. While Explosive Operators often oversee the entire blasting process, Blasting Technicians typically assist with setup and monitoring. Both roles are essential for safe and effective blasting operations within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Explosive Operator jobs in Kentucky?

For Explosive Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Explosive Operator jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Explosive Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

Explosive Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosive Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,629 per year, or $20 per hour.

Operator (CDL Class A)

Groome Industrial Service Group

Wurtland, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Groome Industrial Service Group, a nationwide leader focused on the future, provides specialty maintenance services nationwide for several industries including natural gas-fired power generation, coal-fired power generation, refinery, shipping, manufacturing, aviation, and municipal. Our unique turnkey services help reduce harmful emissions, improve plant performance, and extend the life of valuable industrial equipment and infrastructure. We are a people-centric organization with employees committed to safety, integrity, and accountability.
About the Position
Groome Industrial Service Group is seeking dedicated individuals in Wurtland, KY to join our team as Operator with CDL. This role involves traveling from our KY location to power generation plants throughout the region, where you will receive training to de-slag large utility boilers using explosives.
Why work for Groome Industrial Service Group?
  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority 24/7/365!
  • Competitive wages
  • Paid time off, comprehensive health benefits coverage after 60 days of full-time employment.
  • 401(k) after the eligibility period with company matching component.
  • Opportunities for growth and development in your career.
  • Positive and safe work environments.

Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operating a vacuum truck, heavy equipment, or other company vehicles.
  • Operating the vac truck / VecLoader, monitoring gauges and functions.
  • Assisting with setup, inspecting equipment and vacuum hoses/connectors before, during, and after projects.
  • Completing all related paperwork.
  • Performing power washing, scaffolding, shoveling, explosive blasting, grinding, construction, demolition, and painting.

Requirements:
  • Work Hours: Shift times vary based on customer needs, including potential afternoon, evening, and weekend shifts. Availability for emergencies is required.
  • Travel: Out-of-state travel by air or vehicle is required, including hotel stays.
  • Safety: Adherence to all Groome, OSHA, and customer safety policies.
  • Wardrobe: Jeans, steel-toed boots, weather-appropriate layers. Respirator users must be clean-shaven.
  • Regular exposure to outdoor weather conditions.
  • Moderate to severe noise levels.
  • Regularly climbing, standing, walking, talking, and hearing. Frequent sitting, handling, and reaching.
  • Vision requirements include close and distance vision.
  • Physical demand level (PDL) ranges from Medium to Very Heavy; willingness to fulfill all demand levels is essential.
  • Ability to lift 90 pounds.

What does it take to work for Groome Industrial Service Group?
  • CDL Class A license required.
  • Basic mechanical skills required.
  • Must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license.
  • No felony or family violence convictions.
  • No DWI convictions in the last 5 years.
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Reliable transportation and residence within an hour of our Wurtland, KY office.
  • Willingness to be on call 24/7.
  • Must pass a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background check.

For additional information about our company, visit us at www.groomeindustrial.com.
Groome Industrial Service Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. E.O.E./M/F/Disability/Veteran
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