Support Shotfirer - Open Cut

Orica Limited; Uvalde, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 48,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plans

Dental plans

Vision plans

Health Savings Account

Flexible Spending Accounts

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

401(k) match

Paid time off

Holidays

Job summary

Orica Limited in Uvalde, TX is seeking an Explosives Blaster Trainee to learn under experienced blasters, handling loading, tying and firing blasts while following strict safety procedures.

This hands-on field role emphasizes DOT regulatory compliance, safety, and daily toolbox talks; ideal candidates have a drive to develop blasting expertise and work flexible hours with potential overnight travel.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year of driving or material handling experience.
• Solid understanding of DOT regulations.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team.
• Excellent attention to detail and basic math skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and adapt to schedules.
• Basic computer skills; willingness to learn.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Assist with loading, tying, and firing blasts under supervision.
• Deliver products and ensure DOT-compliant transportation of explosives.
• Maintain distribution equipment and operate MMUs.
• Travel may be required to client sites and outside regional areas.
• Participate in daily toolbox talks and safety meetings.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
• Ensure safe handling and storage of hazardous materials.

Skills

Driving experience

DOT regulations knowledge

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Math skills

Teamwork

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

About Orica

It’s an exciting time to join us – we are shaping the future of mining through digital and automated technologies, embracing new ways of thinking, pioneering innovation, and reimagining the way we work.

Orica does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you need Orica Immigration Sponsorship (e.g., H1-B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) now or in the future.

About The Role – Explosives Blaster Trainee (Uvalde, TX)

We are excited to announce an opportunity at Orica for an Explosives Blaster Trainee within our Orica USA Commercial team.

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 building the skills needed for a professional blasting career. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong interest in developing their blasting expertise.

• Monday through Friday
• Local driving (0-2 hours)
• Early morning starts at approximately 4 AM - 5 AM
• Work approximately 10-12 hours per day
• Overtime may be needed
• Up to 10% of overnight travel may be required

What you will be doing

• This Explosives Blaster Trainee will assist the site by delivering products, properly following DOT regulatory requirements regarding the transportation of explosives, maintaining and operating distribution equipment, including Mobile Manufacturing Units (MMUs), and actively seeking opportunities at customer sites where Orica can sell services.
• This position will also assist blasters and lead blasters under their supervision in conducting shot service activities safely, including stemming, timing, and proper product use.
• Some projects may require travel outside of the regional market area
• Must be flexible to customer demands, including work schedules, and deal with weather changes
• Aware of work environment, i.e., operation of large haulage vehicles and specialized equipment in and around blast patterns
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles, including checking and refilling fluid levels.
• Operate emulsion tanker trucks and box trucks as part of daily responsibilities.
• Ensure raw materials and hazardous goods are handled, stored, and used in compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
• Minimize environmental impact through waste reduction and control practices.
• Immediately report any unusual incidents or accidents.
• Actively participate in daily toolbox talks and monthly safety meetings to promote a safe and collaborative work environment.

What you will bring

• Minimum of one year of experience in driving and/or material handling.
• Solid understanding of DOT regulations is required.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent attention to detail and basic math skills to manage daily inventory tasks.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects, daily responsibilities, and urgent situations to maintain efficiency.
• Basic computer skills preferred, including the ability/willingness to learn.
• High School Diploma or equivalent

Physical requirements

• The work environment involves being outside in all types of weather and bench conditions
• Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds and carry 50 pounds or more of product or materials.
• Requires the ability to load product, pull large hoses, fill drilled holes, and climb on and off trucks.
• Frequent shoveling of gravel to fill drilled holes throughout the day.
• Regular pushing and pulling while working with equipment.
• Other physical activities include frequent bending, squatting, and general mobility throughout the workday.

What we offer

As part of a truly global company, you will have the ability to grow and learn in a diverse, collaborative culture. We foster relationships and learning through connected global and local teams, promote flexible and diverse career paths and support the development of your knowledge and skills.

You will be paid a competitive salary, learn from talented individuals across multiple disciplines and be able to thrive in a safe workplace within a collaborative culture. Ignite your career at a place where your distinct potential can find its home.

Compensation

• Hourly Pay Range: $23.22 - $35.00 per hour

(Salary to be determined by the applicant’s experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.)

• Medical/Prescription Drug - Three (3) plans to choose from
• Dental - Two (2) plans to choose from
• Vision - Two (2) plans to choose from
• Health Savings Account
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Basic Employee Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Voluntary Employee/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 & Accident Plans
• Voluntary Identity Theft Protection
• Voluntary Legal Plan
• 401(k) + Company Match
• Company provided Maternity Leave
• Company provided Bonding Leave
• Accrued Paid Time Off
• Paid Sick & Safe Time
• Nine (9) Scheduled Holidays + Two (2) Floating Holidays

We respect and value all

Orica promotes and fosters a culture of inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment everywhere we operate. We treat our people and applicants with fairness, dignity, and respect, getting the best of everyone’s contributions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, nationality, age, military or veteran, marital or disability status.

Orica is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we are a Drug-free workplace