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Mine Blaster Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Production Laborer

Lyons, KS · On-site

$24.28/hr

Work environment is the underground mine and/or surface operations. Employee is exposed to dust, dirt, and fumes from blasting and equipment, as well as variation in noise, temperature, and equipment ...

Production Laborer

Lyons, KS · On-site

$24.28/hr

Work environment is the underground mine and/or surface operations. Employee is exposed to dust, dirt, and fumes from blasting and equipment, as well as variation in noise, temperature, and equipment ...

Production Laborer

Lyons, KS · On-site

$24.28/hr

Work environment is the underground mine and/or surface operations. Employee is exposed to dust, dirt, and fumes from blasting and equipment, as well as variation in noise, temperature, and equipment ...

Mine Blaster information

See Kansas salary details

$12

$18

$30

How much do mine blaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for mine blaster in Kansas is $18.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mine blaster?

Mine Blasters are specialized professionals responsible for safely planning, placing, and detonating explosives in mining operations. Their main goal is to break apart rock and earth to access valuable minerals or create tunnels, all while ensuring the safety of the work site and personnel. Mine Blasters must follow strict safety protocols, conduct risk assessments, and comply with legal regulations regarding the use of explosives. They often work closely with engineers and other mining staff to design and execute blasting patterns that optimize resource extraction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mine blaster, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mine Blaster, you need knowledge of explosives handling, safety regulations, blasting techniques, and typically must obtain relevant certifications or licensure. Familiarity with blasting machines, detonators, and specialized software for blast design is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating with teams and ensuring safety. These skills and qualities are vital to prevent accidents, optimize blast outcomes, and maintain regulatory compliance in hazardous environments.

What are some common safety challenges faced by mine blasters, and how are they addressed on the job?

Mine Blasters often work in potentially hazardous environments where strict safety protocols are paramount. Common challenges include managing the risks associated with handling explosives, ensuring accurate blast planning to prevent flyrock or misfires, and coordinating with other workers to keep the site clear during detonations. These risks are addressed through comprehensive training, regular safety drills, use of protective equipment, and close adherence to regulatory guidelines. Effective communication and teamwork are also essential to maintain a safe work environment and successful blasting operations.

What is the difference between Mine Blaster vs Blasting Technician?

AspectMine BlasterBlasting Technician
CertificationsExplosive license, safety trainingExplosive license, safety training
Work EnvironmentMining sites, underground or surfaceMining sites, construction, quarrying
Job RoleResponsible for preparing and detonating explosives in miningAssists with blast setup, safety checks, and monitoring

Both Mine Blasters and Blasting Technicians require explosive handling certifications and work primarily in mining or construction environments. Mine Blasters typically lead the blasting process, while Blasting Technicians support and assist in blast operations. The roles are closely related, with Mine Blasters having more responsibility for detonation and safety procedures.

How much do mine blasters get paid?

Mine blasters typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the blasting operations. Salaries can also vary based on certifications and the specific mining environment.

How to become a mine blaster?

To become a mine blaster, you typically need to complete specialized training and obtain a blasting license or certification, which involves understanding explosives safety, regulations, and proper handling procedures. Experience in mining or construction environments and knowledge of blasting tools and techniques are also important. Compliance with local regulations and safety standards is essential for employment in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Mine Blaster jobs in Kansas?

For Mine Blaster jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mine Blaster jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Mine Blaster jobs in Kansas are:

Infographic showing various Mine Blaster job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,917 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

$24.28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

For over three decades, Lyons Salt has provided superior deicing and agricultural salts from our mine in Lyons, KS. Our thriving business stems from commitment to our customers and a respect for every product request to help them better serve their clients. As a member of the team at Lyons Salt, you are contributing to personalized, responsive service day or night. Lyons Salt is proud to operate under one umbrella with other iconic salt companies including Morton Salt, Windsor Salt, and more.
Job Summary
Under the immediate supervision of a supervisor, the laborer performs at a basic level a variety of manual labor tasks in the mine and/or surface operations; many job assignments with emphasis on heavy equipment and reclamation duties as assigned. This person will perform all assigned process specifications and instructions safely and competently. The individual will report any malfunctions or abnormalities to their supervisor; ensuring that the machinery and safety equipment are in good working order and a high standard of housekeeping is maintained in their workplace.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform a variety of basic level work including manual labor tasks such as shoveling salt, cleaning floors, and assisting operators of all kinds on the various operations - start and stop, grease, and clean belt conveyors and crushers.
  • Occasionally operate heavy mining equipment (Loaders, Drills, Telehandlers, Etc.)
  • May handle explosives.
  • May use hand drill, etc.
  • Since operations is a specialized field, individual should have capabilities that will enable future qualification for more skilled operations jobs; as a matter of training, occasionally may perform some of these skilled jobs such as drilling holes, assisting powderman, etc. - may do hand scaling and other jobs as directed.
  • Perform routine cleanup of required areas.
  • Identify hazards, unsafe actions, and conditions that could result in damage to property, injury, and/or impacts to the environment and community.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • High degree of attention required to prevent injury to self and coworkers; promote safe workplace.
  • Must be able to work safely in varying temperatures in the mine workplace, and outside year-round.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 100 pounds regularly.
  • Must be able to wear steel-toed shoes, safety glasses, hard hat, and high-vis.
  • Must be able to work overtime as necessary, including weekends.
  • Must be able to work at heights as needed.
  • Must be able to work different shifts.
  • Normally requires less than (2) weeks' experience and training to qualify.
  • Must pass pre-employment physical and background check.

Work Environment
  • Work environment is the underground mine and/or surface operations. Employee is exposed to dust, dirt, and fumes from blasting and equipment, as well as variation in noise, temperature, and equipment vibration due to uneven and sloping floors.

Essential Job Functions
  • Capable of inspecting work area for safety hazards and mitigation as necessary.
  • Cleans salt spillage under conveyor belts and along walkways; cleaning requires the employee to use a shovel to remove salt - this would call for the employee to climb ladders, bend, twist and lift the loaded shovel.
  • Assist loading a bench and development rounds with explosives, requiring the employee to lift 50-pound bags of ANFO from a pallet and hold over a hole pouring the contents into the hole. The employee would have to bend, stoop, lift, and twist while holding the 50-pound bag
  • Operate the skid steer and support equipment. Must have good eye-hand coordination to properly manipulate the respective hand controls; requires the employee to fill the equipment, and pump oil, fuel, or compressed air into production equipment - this requires reaching, twisting, bending, and lifting.
  • Assist mechanics in major repairs and perform minor maintenance, for this reason employee must be adept at using hand tools.
  • Assist equipment operators in hanging cables, curtains, or other support equipment - this requires the employee to work up to 35 feet above the floor (in a basket) to lift and fasten cables and curtains to the roof - this requires lifting, twisting and holding.
  • Assist equipment operators and direct them in areas where hazards of scaling, drop offs, and other equipment or structures exist; requires the employee to recognize the hazard, and to verbally communicate to the equipment operator - will use hand signals to direct movement of vehicles.
  • Hand scale loose ribs, which requires the employee to use a hand scaling bar to remove the scale from the rib or face - requires lifting, bending and twisting, and requires training and reasoning ability to avoid accidents.
  • Must be permitted to possess/handle explosives and submit an employee possessor questionnaire to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
  • Must be able to work productively in a group environment.
  • Must be able to work additional hours as required.

At Lyons Salt, we work best when we work as a team, when we treat one another with dignity and respect, and value the unique contributions of others. We are committed to equal employment opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, national origin, sex, religion, color, disability, marital status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.