Explosives Blaster Trainee (Zephyr, TX)

Orica•Zephyr, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Explosives Blaster Trainee works alongside experienced blasters to learn safe blasting practices in mining and quarry environments. This hands-on field role includes assisting with loading, tying, and firing blasts; following strict safety procedures; identifying hazards; and participating in daily safety activities while developing skills for a professional blasting career. The trainee supports the site by delivering products, following DOT regulations for transporting explosives, maintaining and operating distribution equipment, and identifying opportunities to sell Orica services at customer sites. Under the supervision of blasters and lead blasters, the trainee also assists with safe shot-service activities, including stemming, timing, and proper product use. Some projects may require travel outside the regional market area. The position requires flexibility to meet customer demands and changing work schedules and weather conditions. Work involves outdoor mining and quarry sites, large haulage vehicles, and specialized equipment around blast patterns. The schedule is Monday through Friday, with local driving of approximately 1–3 hours, early starts around 4–5 AM, and workdays of approximately 10–12 hours. Overtime may be needed, and up to 10% overnight travel may be required.

Requirements

Solid understanding of DOT regulations.
Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Excellent attention to detail and basic math skills for daily inventory tasks.
Ability to prioritize multiple projects, daily responsibilities, and urgent situations.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather and bench conditions.
Ability to lift up to 60 pounds and carry 50 pounds or more of product or materials.
Ability to load product, pull large hoses, fill drilled holes, and climb on and off trucks.
Ability to shovel gravel frequently, push and pull equipment, and perform frequent bending, squatting, and general mobility throughout the workday.

Nice To Haves

Basic computer skills, including the ability and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

Deliver products and follow DOT regulations for transporting explosives.
Maintain and operate distribution equipment.
Seek opportunities at customer sites where Orica can sell services.
Assist blasters and lead blasters under their supervision with safe shot-service activities, including stemming, timing, and proper product use.
Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, including checking and refilling fluid levels.
Operate emulsion tanker trucks and box trucks as part of daily responsibilities.
Handle, store, and use raw materials and hazardous goods in compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
Minimize environmental impact through waste reduction and control practices.
Immediately report unusual incidents or accidents.
Participate in daily toolbox talks and monthly safety meetings.
Adapt to customer demands, work schedules, and changing weather conditions.

Benefits

Medical and prescription drug coverage with three plans to choose from
Dental coverage with two plans to choose from
Vision coverage with two plans to choose from
Health Savings Account
Flexible Spending Accounts
Basic employee life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
Voluntary employee and dependent life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
Company-provided short-term and long-term disability
Company-provided Employee Assistance Program
Voluntary hospital indemnity, critical illness, and accident plans
Voluntary identity theft protection
Voluntary legal plan
401(k) with company match
Company-provided maternity leave
Company-provided bonding leave
Accrued paid time off
Paid sick and safe time
Nine scheduled holidays and two floating holidays
Competitive salary
Opportunities to grow and learn in a diverse, collaborative culture