Explosives Blaster Trainee (Homer, GA)

About Orica

At Orica, it’s the power of our people that leads change and shapes our futures.  Every day, all around the world, our people help mobilize vital resources essential to progress. Established in 1874, we have grown to become the world leader in mining and civil blasting with a diverse team of more than 13,000 across the world. From the production and supply of explosives, blasting systems, mining chemicals, and geotechnical monitoring to our cutting-edge digital solutions and comprehensive range of services, we sustainably mobilize the earth’s resources.

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 has been recognized as one of the top companies for women to work for in the transportation industry by the Women in Trucking Association (WIT) in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
 
If you are interested in joining the Orica team and would like to be contacted by the Orica Recruiting team, text “New Job” to 52345. 
 
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 (Homer, GA)

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

The Explosives Blaster Trainee position offers a unique career path for individuals passionate about both commercial driving and eager to learn the specialized skills involved in the mining blasting process. Ideal candidates will hold a valid CDL and demonstrate a strong interest in developing their skills as a professional blaster.

 This hands-on role is essential to field operations, involving key responsibilities such as loading, tying, and firing blasts, while receiving comprehensive training and on-the-job experience.

Work schedule

• Monday through Friday
• Local driving (2-3 hours)
• Early morning starts at approximately 3 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 the 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.
• A 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.

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.

Your qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• CDL License with tanker and hazmat endorsements

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: $30.00 – $32.00

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

Benefits

• 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.

We have been made aware that some individuals have received scam emails which include false and invalid offers of employment from Orica.  Please note that Orica will not offer employment to any candidate without first undertaking a formal application and recruitment process.  All candidates are required to actively participate in the recruitment process applicable to the specific role and location where the role is based, prior to any offer of employment being made.  Please also be advised that Orica will never request payment or require candidates to deposit a check during the recruitment and onboarding processes.

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