[Core] [24% incumbents] Examine blast areas to determine amounts and kinds of explosive charges needed and to ensure that safety laws are observed.
  DWAs: Determine operational compliance with regulations or standards. | Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Connect electrical wire to primers, and cover charges or fill blast holes with clay, drill chips, sand, or other material.
  DWAs: Prepare explosives for detonation.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Assemble and position equipment, explosives, and blasting caps in holes at specified depths, or load perforating guns or torpedoes with explosives.
  DWAs: Assemble products or production equipment. | Prepare explosives for detonation. | Position construction or extraction equipment.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Verify detonation of charges by observing control panels, or by listening for the sounds of blasts.
  DWAs: Monitor extraction operations.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Move and store inventories of explosives, loaded perforating guns, and other materials, according to established safety procedures.
  DWAs: Move materials, equipment, or supplies. | Stock supplies or merchandise.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Drive trucks to transport explosives and blasting equipment to blasting sites.
  DWAs: Drive trucks or truck-mounted equipment.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Maintain inventory levels, ordering new supplies as necessary.
  DWAs: Order construction or extraction materials or equipment.

[Core] [24% incumbents] Repair and service blasting, shooting, and automotive equipment, and electrical wiring and instruments, using hand tools.
  DWAs: Maintain extraction or excavation equipment.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Place safety cones around blast areas to alert other workers of danger zones, and signal workers as necessary to ensure that they clear blast sites prior to explosions.
  DWAs: Position safety or support equipment. | Direct construction or extraction personnel.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Place explosive charges in holes or other spots; then detonate explosives to demolish structures or to loosen, remove, or displace earth, rock, or other materials.
  DWAs: Prepare explosives for detonation. | Operate detonation equipment.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Mark patterns, locations, and depths of charge holes for drilling, and issue drilling instructions.
  DWAs: Mark reference points on construction materials.

[Core] [23% incumbents] Compile and keep gun and explosives records in compliance with local and federal laws.
  DWAs: Record operational or environmental data.

[Supplemental] [23% incumbents] Set up and operate short-wave radio or field telephone equipment to transmit and receive blast information.
  DWAs: Operate communications equipment or systems.

[Supplemental] [23% incumbents] Insert waterproof sealers, bullets, and/or powder charges into guns, and screw gun ports back into place.
  DWAs: Load materials into construction equipment. | Assemble products or production equipment.

[Supplemental] [23% incumbents] Clean, gauge, and lubricate gun ports.
  DWAs: Clean equipment or facilities. | Maintain extraction or excavation equipment.

[Supplemental] [23% incumbents] Lower perforating guns into wells, using hoists; then use measuring devices and instrument panels to position guns in correct positions for taking samples.
  DWAs: Position construction or extraction equipment. | Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Insert, pack, and pour explosives, such as dynamite, ammonium nitrate, black powder, or slurries into blast holes; then shovel drill cuttings, admit water into boreholes, and tamp material to compact charges.
  DWAs: Pour materials into or on designated areas. | Prepare explosives for detonation.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Measure depths of drilled blast holes, using weighted tape measures.
  DWAs: Measure work site dimensions.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Lay primacord between rows of charged blast holes, and tie cord into main lines to form blast patterns.
  DWAs: Prepare explosives for detonation.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Light fuses, drop detonating devices into wells or boreholes, or activate firing devices with plungers, dials, or buttons, in order to set off single or multiple blasts.
  DWAs: Operate detonation equipment.

[Core] [22% incumbents] Cut specified lengths of primacord and attach primers to cord ends.
  DWAs: Cut carpet, vinyl or other flexible materials. | Prepare explosives for detonation.

[Core] [21% incumbents] Tie specified lengths of delaying fuses into patterns in order to time sequences of explosions.
  DWAs: Prepare explosives for detonation.

[None] Create and lay out designs for drill and blast patterns.
  DWAs: Develop equipment or component configurations.

[None] Document geological formations encountered during work.
  DWAs: Record operational or environmental data.

[None] Operate machines to flush earth cuttings or to blow dust from holes.
  DWAs: Remove debris or vegetation from work sites.

[None] Set up and operate equipment such as hoists, jackhammers, and drills, in order to bore charge holes.
  DWAs: Drill holes in earth or rock.

[None] Signal crane operators to move equipment.
  DWAs: Signal equipment operators to indicate proper equipment positioning.

[EMERGING:New] Operate drones for aerial survey of blast sites and for post-blast damage assessment.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:3.88 lvl:3.38) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Monitoring (imp:3.75 lvl:3.62) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Speaking (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Learning (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Learning Strategies (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Writing (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Mathematics (imp:2.50 lvl:2.88) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Science (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Public Safety and Security (imp:4.13 lvl:4.67) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Law and Government (imp:3.96 lvl:4.00) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Mathematics (imp:3.71 lvl:4.04) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Engineering and Technology (imp:3.33 lvl:3.88) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Administration and Management (imp:3.17 lvl:3.57) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.17 lvl:3.88) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Transportation (imp:3.17 lvl:3.38) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  English Language (imp:3.09 lvl:3.04) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Production and Processing (imp:3.00 lvl:3.67) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Mechanical (imp:3.00 lvl:4.00) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Administrative (imp:2.91 lvl:3.52) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Design (imp:2.83 lvl:3.08) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Education and Training (imp:2.67 lvl:3.33) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.61 lvl:2.83) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Building and Construction (imp:2.61 lvl:2.91) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.57 lvl:3.17) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Physics (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Chemistry (imp:2.38 lvl:2.96) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Economics and Accounting (imp:2.35 lvl:2.09) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Computers and Electronics (imp:2.26 lvl:2.59) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Geography (imp:1.96 lvl:1.78) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Psychology (imp:1.92 lvl:2.00) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Communications and Media (imp:1.78 lvl:1.43) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Telecommunications (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.54 lvl:1.04) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  History and Archeology (imp:1.43 lvl:0.83) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.38 lvl:0.88) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.38 lvl:0.83) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Biology (imp:1.35 lvl:0.87) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.33 lvl:0.67) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Foreign Language (imp:1.26 lvl:0.43) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Fine Arts (imp:1.08 lvl:0.17) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Food Production (imp:1.04 lvl:0.08) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food

--- ABILITIES ---
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Manual Dexterity (imp:4.00 lvl:4.13) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Near Vision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.13) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.88 lvl:3.75) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.88 lvl:3.75) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Information Ordering (imp:3.88 lvl:4.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.88 lvl:3.50) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Oral Expression (imp:3.75 lvl:3.50) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.75 lvl:3.50) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.63 lvl:3.50) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Reaction Time (imp:3.63 lvl:4.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Control Precision (imp:3.50 lvl:3.75) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.50 lvl:3.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Selective Attention (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Depth Perception (imp:3.38 lvl:3.13) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.25 lvl:3.63) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.25 lvl:2.88) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Visualization (imp:3.13 lvl:3.38) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Far Vision (imp:3.13 lvl:3.50) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.13 lvl:2.88) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Time Sharing (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Static Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Extent Flexibility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Written Expression (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Originality (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Rate Control (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.63 lvl:3.00) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.63 lvl:2.25) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:2.63 lvl:2.38) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Response Orientation (imp:2.63 lvl:2.88) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.38 lvl:2.63) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Stamina (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Memorization (imp:2.13 lvl:2.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Spatial Orientation (imp:2.13 lvl:1.88) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Sound Localization (imp:2.13 lvl:1.88) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Night Vision (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.88 lvl:1.88) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.25 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.42 lvl:5.42) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Getting Information (imp:4.33 lvl:4.71) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:4.29 lvl:5.08) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:4.29 lvl:4.13) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:4.25 lvl:5.38) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.21 lvl:4.75) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:4.21 lvl:5.92) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.17 lvl:5.17) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.17 lvl:4.92) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.17 lvl:5.33) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:4.04 lvl:4.42) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:3.92 lvl:3.88) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.88 lvl:5.04) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:3.88 lvl:4.83) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.83 lvl:4.21) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.79 lvl:4.71) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.79 lvl:4.42) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Processing Information (imp:3.75 lvl:4.58) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.71 lvl:4.38) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.67 lvl:4.63) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.54 lvl:3.71) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.50 lvl:4.13) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.50 lvl:3.79) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.50 lvl:4.29) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:3.50 lvl:3.79) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.42 lvl:4.33) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:3.42 lvl:4.13) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.38 lvl:4.08) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.25 lvl:4.17) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.21 lvl:4.00) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.04 lvl:3.25) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.00 lvl:2.79) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.00 lvl:3.70) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.96 lvl:3.61) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.88 lvl:3.46) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.75 lvl:2.63) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.71 lvl:2.74) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.46 lvl:2.33) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Working with Computers (imp:2.42 lvl:2.67) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.39 lvl:2.74) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.33 lvl:2.58) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Cautiousness (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Stress Tolerance (imp:3.00) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Dependability (imp:2.93) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Integrity (imp:2.55) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Self-Control (imp:2.55) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Control (imp:2.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Perseverance (imp:1.90) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.35) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.16) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.00) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Cooperation (imp:0.90) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Adaptability (imp:0.89) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.60) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:0.38) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Sincerity (imp:0.36) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Initiative (imp:0.19) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Humility (imp:0.10) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Optimism (imp:0.07) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Empathy (imp:-0.20) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Innovation (imp:-0.45) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.48) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.86) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.62 lvl:3.25) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.50 lvl:3.25) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Operation and Control (imp:3.50 lvl:3.12) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Time Management (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:3.50) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Instructing (imp:3.00 lvl:3.38) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Negotiation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Persuasion (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Operations Analysis (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Repairing (imp:2.12 lvl:2.25) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Technology Design (imp:1.75 lvl:1.12) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:1.00) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Installation (imp:1.38) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 5,100
  annual_median    : $61,390
  annual_pct10     : $40,480
  annual_pct25     : $49,630
  annual_pct75     : $80,370
  annual_pct90     : $99,360
  annual_mean      : $66,640
  hourly_median    : $29.51

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : New Jersey ($100,520)
  lowest_state     : Iowa ($39,520)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.544x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (32 total) ---
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:    1,210  median: $  59,740
  Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction emp:    1,140  median: $  65,800
  Construction                             emp:      680  median: $  72,630
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:      580  median: $  68,270
  Manufacturing                            emp:      480  median: $  56,490
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:       40  median: $  47,650

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (6 total) ---
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:    1,210  median: $  59,740
  Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction emp:    1,140  median: $  65,800
  Construction                             emp:      680  median: $  72,630
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:      580  median: $  68,270
  Manufacturing                            emp:      480  median: $  56,490
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:       40  median: $  47,650

exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T22:49:20.500962Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Unexploded ordnance (similarity: 0.3846)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unexploded_ordnance
  QID: Q2302880
  Extract: Unexploded ordnance and unexploded bombs (UXBs) are explosive weapons that did not explode when they were deployed and remain at risk for detonation, sometimes many decades after they were used or discarded. When unwanted munitions are found, they are sometimes destroyed in controlled explosions, bu

  Title: Bomb disposal (similarity: 0.1389)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bomb_disposal
  QID: Q649416
  Extract: Bomb disposal is an explosives engineering profession using the process by which hazardous explosive devices are disabled or otherwise rendered safe. Bomb disposal is an all-encompassing term to describe the separate, but interrelated functions in the military fields of explosive ordnance disposal (

  Title: Largest artificial non-nuclear explosions (similarity: 0.1600)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Largest_artificial_non-nuclear_explosions
  QID: Q111758
  Extract: There have been many extremely large explosions, accidental and intentional, caused by modern high explosives, boiling liquid expanding vapour explosions (BLEVEs), older explosives such as gunpowder, volatile petroleum-based fuels such as petrol, and other chemical reactions. This list contains the 

  Title: Gunpowder (similarity: 0.1471)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunpowder
  QID: Q12861
  Extract: Gunpowder, commonly referred to as black powder to distinguish it from modern smokeless powder, is the earliest known chemical explosive. It consists of a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate (saltpeter). The sulfur and charcoal act as fuels, while the saltpeter is an oxidizer. Gunpowd

  Title: Port Chicago disaster (similarity: 0.2250)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_Chicago_disaster
  QID: Q1420226
  Extract: The Port Chicago disaster was a deadly munitions explosion of the ship SS E. A. Bryan on July 17, 1944, at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine in Port Chicago, California, United States. Munitions being loaded onto a cargo vessel bound for the Pacific Theater of Operations detonated, killing 320 sailors

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong confidence based on detailed O*NET data covering tasks, skills, knowledge, and work activities. BLS wage data provides current market intelligence, though the small employment size (5,100 workers) may create some geographic variation in data reliability.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T00:02:54.741771+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,815
tokens_output        : 4,307
cost_usd             : $0.048001
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No exact Wikipedia match found, with closest semantic match being 'Unexploded ordnance' (0.385 similarity), though this represents a different specialization focused on disposal rather than controlled detonation. The occupation represents a specialized construction and mining trade distinct from military ordnance disposal.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters are specialized technicians who place and detonate explosives to demolish structures or displace earth, rock, and other materials in construction, mining, and government operations. They handle dangerous materials with extreme precision, following strict safety protocols while managing explosive inventories and equipment. This critical role requires meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive knowledge of public safety regulations.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Workers begin by examining blast areas to determine the precise amounts and types of explosive charges needed, ensuring compliance with safety laws and regulations. They assemble and position equipment, explosives, and blasting caps in holes at specified depths, connecting electrical wiring to primers and covering charges with protective materials. Throughout the day, they move and store inventories of explosives according to established safety protocols, drive trucks to transport materials to blast sites, and maintain equipment including blasting tools and electrical instruments. They place safety cones around blast areas, signal other workers about danger zones, and verify successful detonations by monitoring control panels or listening for blast sounds. Documentation and inventory management are constant responsibilities, with workers maintaining accurate records and ordering new supplies as necessary.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful explosives workers possess exceptional dependability and attention to detail, as any mistake can result in catastrophic consequences. They demonstrate strong problem sensitivity and manual dexterity, combined with steady hands and precise near vision for handling delicate explosive components. These professionals excel at critical thinking and deductive reasoning, quickly assessing complex situations and making sound decisions under pressure. They thrive on following strict protocols and procedures, finding satisfaction in the technical precision required for safe explosive handling. The role appeals to those who prefer hands-on work in outdoor environments and can maintain focus during high-stakes operations.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most explosives workers enter the field with a high school diploma (62.5% of workers) and receive extensive on-the-job training in explosive handling and safety protocols. Post-secondary certificates in construction trades, mining technology, or related fields provide valuable background for 20.8% of workers. Entry typically requires passing rigorous background checks and obtaining specialized licenses for explosive handling, with employers providing comprehensive safety training and mentorship under experienced blasters.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Experienced explosives workers can advance to supervisory roles overseeing blasting operations or become specialized consultants for complex demolition projects. Some transition into related heavy equipment operation roles or pursue careers in mining engineering or construction management. The specialized nature of the work and security clearance requirements often held by these workers can lead to opportunities in government contracting, defense industries, or specialized demolition companies serving infrastructure and industrial clients.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
With only 5,100 workers employed nationally according to BLS OEWS May 2025, this is a highly specialized niche occupation with median annual wages of $61,390, ranging from $40,480 to $99,360. Geographic wage variation is substantial, with New Jersey offering the highest pay at $100,520 compared to Iowa's $39,520, representing a 2.54x difference reflecting regional demand and cost of living. Employment concentrates in federal, state, and local government (1,210 workers), mining and oil/gas extraction (1,140 workers), and construction (680 workers). The specialized nature and security requirements create barriers to entry that maintain wage premiums and job security for qualified workers.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
The hands-on nature of explosive handling and the critical safety decisions required make this occupation largely resistant to automation in the near term. While emerging drone technology for aerial surveys and damage assessment may supplement worker capabilities, the core activities of placing, connecting, and monitoring explosives require human judgment and dexterity that cannot be safely automated.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [task_similarity] Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas (47-5023.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve drilling holes for material placement and require similar equipment operation skills in extraction environments.
    data: Shared drilling operations
    data: Similar work environments
    data: Equipment handling overlap
  [skill_overlap] Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators (47-2073.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both require operation and control skills (3.5 importance) and equipment monitoring in construction settings.
    data: Operation and Control skill
    data: Construction industry overlap
    data: Equipment operation focus
  [riasec_cluster] Continuous Mining Machine Operators (47-5041.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations show strong Realistic orientation (R:6.90) and work in extraction industries with hands-on equipment operation.
    data: High Realistic RIASEC scores
    data: Mining industry employment
    data: Equipment-focused work
  [knowledge_overlap] Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas (47-5012.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both require extensive Public Safety and Security knowledge (4.1 importance) and work with potentially hazardous materials.
    data: Public Safety knowledge requirement
    data: Hazardous materials handling
    data: Regulatory compliance focus
  [career_pathway] Construction Laborers (47-2061.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Construction laborers may advance to specialized blasting roles with additional training, sharing the construction industry and Job Zone 2 classification.
    data: Same Job Zone level
    data: Construction industry overlap
    data: Advancement pathway potential
  [career_pathway] Helpers--Extraction Workers (47-5081.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Extraction helpers often advance to specialized roles like explosives work, sharing the extraction industry focus and similar physical work requirements.
    data: Extraction industry shared
    data: Helper to specialist progression
    data: Physical work similarity

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['explosives', 'blaster', 'ordnance', 'demolition', 'blasting', 'detonation', 'explosive charges', 'blast technician']
  exclude_keywords : ['unexploded ordnance disposal', 'bomb squad', 'pyrotechnics', 'fireworks', 'ammunition manufacturing']
  title_patterns   : ['*Blast*', '*Explosives*', '*Ordnance*', '*Blasting*', '*Demolition*']
  common_variations: ['Blaster', 'Blast Technician', 'Explosives Worker', 'Ordnance Handler', 'Demolition Specialist', 'Blast Driller', 'Blasting Miner', 'Ammunition Handler']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['equipment', 'tendency', 'others', 'explosives', 'materials', 'blast', 'principles', 'explosive', 'safety', 'control', 'detonation', 'construction', 'operations', 'includes', 'objects', 'holes', 'operate', 'handling', 'ideas', 'procedures']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
equipment                  53  0.01761  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:43%  dwas:38%  onet_tasks:11%
tendency                   42  0.01396  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     39  0.01296  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:97%  wikipedia:3%
explosives                 27  0.00897  inference            inference:30%  onet_tasks:26%  dwas:26%
materials                  22  0.00731  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:45%  dwas:27%  inference:18%
blast                      16  0.00532  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:75%  inference:25%
principles                 16  0.00532  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
explosive                  15  0.00498  inference            inference:47%  wikipedia:33%  onet_tasks:13%
safety                     15  0.00498  inference            inference:53%  onet_tasks:20%  wikipedia:13%
control                    14  0.00465  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  onet_tasks:7%  inference:7%
detonation                 13  0.00432  dwas                 dwas:69%  wikipedia:15%  onet_tasks:8%
construction               13  0.00432  dwas                 dwas:46%  inference:38%  onet_dimensions:15%
operations                 12  0.00399  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  inference:25%  dwas:17%
includes                   12  0.00399  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
objects                    12  0.00399  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
holes                      11  0.00366  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:82%  dwas:9%  inference:9%
operate                    11  0.00366  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:36%  dwas:36%  onet_dimensions:27%
handling                   11  0.00366  inference            inference:55%  onet_dimensions:45%
ideas                      11  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
procedures                 10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  onet_tasks:10%  inference:10%
monitoring                 10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  inference:20%
techniques                 10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
production                 10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  dwas:20%
quickly                    10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
activities                 10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
body                       10  0.00332  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needed                      9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  onet_tasks:11%  inference:11%
devices                     9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:56%  onet_tasks:33%  wikipedia:11%
problems                    9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
management                  9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
resources                   9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
standards                   9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  dwas:11%
orientation                 9  0.00299  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
charges                     8  0.00266  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:75%  inference:25%
blasting                    8  0.00266  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:50%  inference:38%  wikipedia:12%
hand                        8  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  onet_tasks:12%
tools                       8  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  onet_tasks:12%  dwas:12%
machines                    8  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  onet_tasks:12%
attention                   8  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  inference:25%
problem                     8  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%