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Explosive Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Pine Branch Mining, LLC

Blaster KY

Bulan, KY

$18.75 - $25/hr

... of explosives including blasting logs inventory logs seismograph reports and other records required to be maintained as well as the operation of boom operated bulk and supply trucks mechanical ...

Gray Ohio Valley

Concrete Finisher

Versailles, KY

$17.50 - $24/hr

... manuals, operating and maintenance instructions as well as procedure manuals. Must have basic ... electrical shock, explosives, and vibration. The noise level is generally moderate to loud.

Rogers Group

Licensed Blaster

Louisville, KY · On-site

$30/hr

Meet all state and federal requirements to qualify as ATF Explosive possessor (must pass background ... operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. Established in 1908, RGI is the largest privately ...

Rogers Group

Licensed Blaster

Louisville, KY · On-site

$30/hr

Meet all state and federal requirements to qualify as ATF Explosive possessor (must pass background ... operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. Established in 1908, RGI is the largest privately ...

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How much do explosive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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 are Explosive Operators?

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 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 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 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 jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Explosive operators typically earn between $3,000 and $5,000 per month, often without requiring a college degree but needing specialized training and certifications. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, and skilled trades like electricians or HVAC technicians, which rely on technical skills and apprenticeships. These roles often involve physically demanding work and on-the-job training but can provide a monthly income of around $3,000 or more.
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

Process Operator - 2nd Shift

Ensign-Bickford Industries, (EBI)

Graham, KY • On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.Click here to learn more.
Job Description
Job Description: Process Operator
SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES
Work assignment areas are mostly associated with process areas, however, may change as determined by business demands. The Operator is required to have complete understanding of the Safety, Quality, Capacity, and Continuous Improvement aspects of all processes within the assigned area. When fully trained, this producer is expected to be able to be proficient in the manufacturing area assigned, with the ultimate objective of being proficient in all areas. Cost reductions thru improving safety of the operations, improved quality, and reducing waste, are critical components of this job. Strong communications skills are required. Operates process equipment as directed to satisfy customer demand. Expected to perform as an integral part of an operations team. Additional job duties as indicated by supervision, including maintaining a clean and organized work environment.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND DUTIES
  • Primary duties center around the assembly, inspection, and packaging of product prior to shipment to the Customer.
  • A keen sense of Quality is necessary.
  • Will be highly efficient in setup and operation of all process equipment in area assigned. Setup is defined as complete process changeover from one product to another, including troubleshooting quality and productivity challenges.
  • Operation is defined as safe, productive operation of the equipment in accordance with established standard work, with maximized quality and throughput to meet customer demand.
  • Accurately documenting in-process activity is considered an integral part of the operation.
  • Will be responsible for performing objective quality inspections on his/her own product and that of others and taking corrective action as needed.
  • Will participate in communications with Customers regarding product quality issues, developments, or improvements.
  • Assist in the training of new operators or others in the event of new or changed procedures.
  • Must be able to work in a team environment
  • Maintain high level of cleanliness in assigned work areas
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation in a legible fashion
  • Participation in safety programs is mandatory

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the duties of this job:
  • Works regularly near moving mechanical parts and equipment.
  • Works with explosives and energetic materials.
  • Most materials are at or near room temperature.
  • The noise level is usually moderate. Periodic exposure to high levels of noise will occur (hearing protection is provided where needed).
  • Works primarily in indoor situations with occasional exposure to heat and cold
  • Works both individually and in team environment with other personnel.
  • The use of proper PPE is required and enforced in all process areas
  • Reports to work on time and maintains an excellent attendance level

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to execute each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to:
  • Solve basic arithmetic problems and apply real-life situations.
  • Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Communicate with others effectively in both written and verbal fashion.
  • Add, subtract, multiply, divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Visualize plant and personnel loading requirements and determine appropriate priorities in order to optimally meet customer demands.
  • Cope with frequent change and deal with distractions is required.

A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is required, with previous manufacturing experience preferred.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk.
  • The employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to feel product for quality, to operate controls, and to use tools.
  • Basic maintenance or adjustment of process equipment is required in some areas.
  • High degree of hearing is required for determining proper equipment sounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include near and far focus ability, color, and peripheral vision. Depth perception is also required.
  • Moving, rolling, and lifting objects is daily routine.
  • Items exceeding certain limits will require assistance and it will be provided
  • Items may weigh up to 140 Lbs. are routinely rolled to and from pay-offs and take-ups.
  • Shipping containers weighing up to 240 Lbs. and drums of material weighing over 150 Lbs. are also routinely required to be moved.
  • Ability to focus on and complete tasks with occasional distraction is required.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.

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