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Explosives Handler Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Able to pass a background check to receive an explosive handler license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives * Experience as a Professional Ski Patroller at a class A ...

Explosives Handler information

What is an explosives handler?

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Explosives Handler jobs in New Mexico?

For Explosives Handler jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Explosives Handler jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Explosives Handler jobs in New Mexico are:

Infographic showing various Explosives Handler job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Ski Patroller

Taos Ski Valley, NM • On-site


TAOS SKI VALLEY, Inc.
Travel Arrangement Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Good training

Learn new skills

Uninterrupted breaks


Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description
Manages all the medical and safety aspects for the guests and employees of Taos Ski Valley in a constantly changing mountain environment. This includes but is not limited to, hands-on patient care, transportation, avalanche mitigation, intensive customer service, and interdepartmental cooperation. This job description is intended to be a broad description of duties. You will be asked to carry out all responsibilities according to the organization's policies and applicable laws. Specific information on duties and policies can be found with your supervisor or in the Employee Reference Guide.
Essential Job Responsibilities:
  • Respond quickly and professionally to all reported incidents and injuries on the mountain
  • Provide emergency first aid treatment, including patient assessment, stabilization, and transport as needed
  • Assist with mountain operations tasks such as lift evacuation, explosives handling, and avalanche mitigation
  • Perform technical rescue of guests in icy, steep, and often vertical alpine environments
  • Maintain detailed records of all incidents, patient care, and resort operations
  • Communicate effectively with guests to provide information and assistance as needed
    Adhere to al all resort safety policies, procedures, and regulations
  • Assist with ski patrol training and mountain operations as requested
  • Reliable attendance on all scheduled workdays
  • Other duties as assigned

Personal Skills:
  • Ability to work within a team in an austere alpine environment
  • Ability to think creatively, remain calm and problem-solve in dynamic, emergency situations.
  • Strong personal character and commitment to Taos Ski Valley, Inc.'s Vision, Purpose, and Values.
  • Provides a guest experience that exceeds the guest's expectations.
  • Ability to gracefully and humbly accept criticism and opportunities for growth.
  • Ability to stay positive, focused, and constructive when faced with setbacks and challenges and while working in an ever-changing environment.
  • Ability to handle physical and emotionally challenging situations in a high-stress environment.

Qualifications/Knowledge:
  • Must be an expert skier and comfortable in double black terrain in all snow and weather conditions
  • EMT-B or higher level of medical training and license.
  • Must be able and willing to receive a NM state licensure
  • Excellent physical condition
  • Able to pass a background check to receive an explosive handler license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
  • Experience as a Professional Ski Patroller at a class A avalanche preferred
  • Avalanche Pro Level 1 or 2 certification preferred
  • Experience with a professional emergency medical service preferred
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Work Environment:
Taos Ski Valley, Inc. is often a fast-paced work environment, especially during holidays and Peak days. TSVI is located in a high-altitude alpine environment. Position may require travel on uneven, snow-packed, or icy terrain and may be exposed to wet, cold, and humid conditions. Must be able to work in close quarters and with other staff.
Physical Demands of Position Include:
  • Skiing and carrying 50 lbs of materials
  • Carrying 20 + lbs of explosives uphill in extreme weather conditions
  • Throwing 2lbs of hand chares for long distances, repeatedly
  • Operating a snowmobile in adverse conditions
  • Skiing, side slipping, snowplowing with 200 lb + toboggans with guests in steep, expert terrain
  • Spending 90% of the day skiing, hiking, standing, and climbing.
  • Ability to learn computer software systems specifically created for Ski Patrol operations.

Background Check:
Positions dealing with children, of safety-sensitive and/or confidential nature, require driving or positions that handle cash may require a background check and MVR check. Employment is contingent upon a favorable background check and MVR check.
  • Is a Background Check required for this position? Yes
  • Is an MVR required for this position? Yes


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