1

Explosive Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Process Engineer

Graham, KY

$89K - $115K/yr

... chemical/explosives/hazardous industries * Deep knowledge of process safety (HAZOP, LOPA, relief systems) * Experience supporting commissioning and startup * Strong understanding of operating ...

Senior Process Engineer

Graham, KY · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

... explosives/hazardous industries * Deep knowledge of process safety (HAZOP, LOPA, relief systems) * Experience supporting commissioning and start-up * Strong understanding of operating philosophies ...

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 ...

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 ...

Who We Are Dyno Nobel is a global leader in commercial explosives, manufacturing and blasting ... Review vendor data, drawings, and operating manuals * Ensure maintainability and reliability ...

Who We Are Dyno Nobel is a global leader in commercial explosives, manufacturing and blasting ... Support development of alarm management, operating interfaces, and training * Ensure control system ...

Who We Are Dyno Nobel is a global leader in commercial explosives, manufacturing and blasting ... Review vendor data, drawings, and operating manuals * Ensure maintainability and reliability ...

Driver

Burna, KY · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

We provide a full line of explosive products, shot service crews, drill and shoot contracts, blast ... Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles to ensure they are in safe operating ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Explosive Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$20

$32

How much do explosive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Explosive operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are rare and usually found in executive, investment, or specialized medical roles. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience, and salaries above this level are uncommon outside of executive or entrepreneurial positions.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Explosive operators in specialized industries such as mining, demolition, or construction can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in remote or high-risk environments. These roles often require specialized training, safety certifications, and adherence to strict regulations, and pay varies based on project scope and location.

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 in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Explosive operators typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, medical, legal, or specialized technical roles. Certain high-level positions in industries like finance, law, or executive management can reach or exceed this level, often requiring advanced education, extensive experience, and certifications. Salary levels vary widely based on industry, location, and experience.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Explosive operators can earn around $10,000 or more per month, especially with experience, specialized skills, and certifications. These roles often involve high-risk environments, such as construction, demolition, or mining, and may require safety training and licensing. Income varies based on location, employer, and project complexity.
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:

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


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.