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Explosives Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Underground Mining

Underground Miner

Grass Valley, CA

$35 - $50/hr

Able to be a ATF handler for explosives * Current underground MSHA If you have underground mining experience and think you would be a good addition to our team, please apply with an updated resume!

Underground Mining

Underground Miner

Grass Valley, CA

$35 - $50/hr

Able to be a ATF handler for explosives * Current underground MSHA If you have underground mining experience and think you would be a good addition to our team, please apply with an updated resume!

Underground Mining

Underground Miner

Grass Valley, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Able to be a ATF handler for explosives * Current underground MSHA If you have underground mining experience and think you would be a good addition to our team, please apply with an updated resume!

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All JobsExplosives Handler JobsExplosives Handler Jobs in California

Explosives Handler information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do explosives handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosives handler in California is $17.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Explosives Handler vs Blaster?

AspectExplosives HandlerBlaster
CertificationsExplosives Handler Certification, OSHA trainingExplosives Handler Certification, OSHA training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, demolitionMining, quarrying, construction
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, militaryMining, quarrying, construction
Job FocusHandling and transporting explosivesPlanning and executing blasting operations

Both Explosives Handlers and Blasters require similar certifications and work in related environments such as construction and mining. While Explosives Handlers focus on safely handling and transporting explosives, Blasters are responsible for planning and executing blasting operations. The roles often overlap, but Blasters typically have additional responsibilities related to blast design and safety procedures.

What safety protocols must an Explosives Handler follow when working with hazardous materials on a daily basis?

Explosives Handlers must adhere to strict safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), conducting regular equipment inspections, and following detailed handling and storage procedures for explosive materials. Daily responsibilities often begin with safety briefings and risk assessments to identify potential hazards. Handlers also work closely with safety officers and team members to ensure compliance with federal and organizational regulations, such as those set by the ATF and OSHA. Maintaining a disciplined approach to documentation and reporting is essential to prevent accidents and ensure a secure work environment.

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

To thrive as an Explosives Handler, you need knowledge of explosive materials, strict attention to safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma with specialized training or certification in explosives handling. Familiarity with handling equipment, safety monitoring devices, and compliance with federal or military regulations such as ATF or OSHA standards is essential. Strong attention to detail, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this high-risk environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for preventing accidents, ensuring safety, and maintaining legal compliance when working with hazardous materials.

What are Explosives Handlers?

Explosives Handlers are professionals trained to safely manage, transport, store, and use explosives in various industries such as construction, mining, demolition, and military operations. Their responsibilities include preparing explosive materials, setting charges, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and disposing of unused explosives properly. They must have a thorough understanding of safety regulations and possess specialized certifications or licenses depending on their location and industry. Explosives Handlers work closely with engineers, safety officers, and law enforcement to prevent accidents and ensure operations run smoothly.
What are popular job titles related to Explosives Handler jobs in California? For Explosives Handler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Explosives Handler jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Explosives Handler jobs in California are:
Explosives Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosives Handler job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,884 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Junior K9 Handler - San Francisco CA

National Guard Employment Network

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description


On behalf of VetJobs/MilitarySpouseJobs, thank you for your interest. This position is open to Veterans, Transitioning Military, National Guard Members, Military Spouses and Caregivers of War Wounded. To be considered, please click the submit button and follow the instructions.
Job Qualifications and Responsibilities
POSITION SUMMARY
The Junior Handler will be responsible for screening cargo in compliance with TSA rules and regulations. The Junior Handler will be required to complete a 4-8-weeks minimum team training course and certification prior to mobilization to the assigned location.
PAY TRANSPARANCY/COMPENSATION
Pay rate is compensated at $30-33 per hour
Virtual rate is compensated at twenty dollars per hour
Moyock rate is compensated at fifteen dollars per hour
RESPONSIBILITIES
Participate in CCSP related training to search cargo and identify potential threats
Conduct authorized representative duties related to X-Ray, physical search, and explosive trace detection as needed
Perform Junior Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog
Responsible for maintaining training records
Responsible for maintaining training records, care, and maintenance of assigned certified canine. The assigned canine must be permitted to live inside the employee's residence. The employee's residence must be adequate, indoor, and climate-controlled for the canine. The canine living area at the employee's residence is subject to reoccurring inspections.
Must maintain all job-related certifications and required security clearances
Must be willing to operate company vehicle (during on-site training)
Work conditions can vary from a busy training environment to fieldwork, both subject to frequent interruptions. Frequent work outside and in inclement weather conditions is required, including heat, cold, and humidity. May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration. Work hours will be dictated by the customers agreed upon schedule. Nights, weekends, and holiday hours will be required, and the work schedule will vary. Travel may also be required.
Other duties as assigned
Additional Qualifications/Responsibilities
QUALIFICATIONS
U.S. Citizenship is required
Must have held citizenship for a minimum of three years prior to date of application
Must be able to obtain a Known Traveler Number (KTN) within four to six weeks of employment
Must be able to obtain a Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge within four to six weeks of employment
Must be able to obtain a Security Threat Assessment (STA) for Airport Badge within four to six weeks of employment
Must have adequate transportation to transport assigned Canine and Crate (inside the vehicle) to/from assigned work location; transportation must have operational climate control
Must be able to pass the applicable Contract Testing and Certifications for the program within four to eight weeks of employment; candidate must maintain the certification requirements
Must have a valid US drivers license and satisfactory driver record.
Drivers license must be compliant with REAL ID standards or possess a valid U.S. passport in addition to a valid drivers license.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and multiple priorities to completion
Problem solving skills with an analytical thought process
Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment
Must be able to lift and carry various items weighing up to 100 lbs. Requires standing for long periods of time in all weather conditions. Requires intermittent sitting, walking, running, climbing, squatting, stretching, bending, and kneeling. Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms

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