Lead Blaster - Mining

Turner-Mining-Group-LLC; Soda Springs (ID); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Turner Mining Group in Soda Springs, Idaho, is seeking a Lead Blaster to plan, prepare, and execute blasting operations safely while guiding the blast crew. The role emphasizes precision, regulatory compliance, and hands-on leadership in a demanding mining environment.

Ideal candidates bring proven blasting experience in mining or quarry settings, Idaho licensing, MSHA knowledge, and strong teamwork. The position requires outdoor work in all weather and a commitment to safety and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a blaster in mining, quarry, or heavy civil with lead/supervisory experience.
• Valid blaster license/certification (state-specific licensing per Idaho regulations).
• Strong knowledge of explosives, blast design, initiation systems, and fragmentation principles.
• Solid understanding of MSHA regulations and explosives handling/storage requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret blast plans, geological data, and site drawings.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding outdoor environment in all weather.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and lay out blast patterns based on geology, production goals, and site requirements.
• Lead and coordinate the blast crew, including loading, priming, and tying in shots.
• Oversee safe handling, transport, and storage of explosives and blasting agents per regulations.
• Supervise drill hole loading for proper powder factor, timing, and sequencing.
• Conduct pre- and post-blast inspections and ensure safety protocols are followed.
• Monitor and adjust blast designs based on results and conditions.
• Maintain blast logs, explosive inventory, and regulatory documentation.
• Train and mentor blast crew members; provide technical guidance.
• Communicate blasting schedules with mine operations and supervisors to align with production needs.
• Follow MSHA and state/explosives regulations without exception.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, misfires, or equipment issues immediately.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Leadership

Safety awareness

Blasting design

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Reading plans

Driver's license

Team coordination

Job description

Overview

Turner Mining Group is hiring a Lead Blaster to join operations in Soda Springs, ID. This is a key production role responsible for planning, preparing, and executing blasting operations safely and efficiently, while providing hands-on leadership and technical guidance to the blast crew.

If you're an experienced blaster who takes pride in precision, safety, and leading by example, this is a great opportunity to take on a leadership role within a high-performing mining operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and lay out blast patterns based on geological conditions, production goals, and site requirements
• Lead and coordinate the blast crew, including loading, priming, and tying in shots
• Oversee the safe handling, transport, and storage of explosives and blasting agents in compliance with all regulations
• Supervise drill hole loading to ensure proper powder factor, timing, and sequencing for optimal fragmentation
• Conduct pre-blast and post-blast inspections, including clearing the blast area and verifying all safety protocols are followed
• Monitor and adjust blast designs based on results, ground conditions, and feedback from operations
• Maintain accurate blast logs, explosive inventory records, and required regulatory documentation
• Train, mentor, and provide technical guidance to blast crew members
• Communicate closely with mine operations, drill crews, and supervisors to align blasting schedules with production needs
• Follow all MSHA regulations, state/federal explosives regulations, and company safety policies without exception
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, misfires, or equipment issues immediately
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a blaster in a mining, quarry, or heavy civil environment, with prior lead or supervisory experience preferred
• Valid blaster's license/certification (state-specific licensing required per Idaho regulations)
• Strong knowledge of explosives, blast design, initiation systems, and fragmentation principles
• Solid understanding of MSHA regulations and explosives handling/storage requirements
• Ability to read and interpret blast plans, geological data, and site drawings
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a physically demanding outdoor environment and in all weather conditions
• Strong situational awareness and unwavering commitment to safety
• Valid driver's license required
• Reliable transportation and consistent attendance

What We're Looking For

• Experienced blasters who can lead a crew safely, efficiently, and consistently
• Individuals who take ownership of blast quality, fragmentation results, and crew safety
• Strong communicators who work well with drill crews, operations, and site leadership