Bringing down a building with the press of a button,
or making a giant boulder disappear in a flash of light and sound,
these controlled explosions may be sensational,
but they can only go forward
under the watchful eye of skilled explosives workers.
They carefully plan and execute detonations to demolish structures
or displace rock and other materials.
Explosives workers examine a blast area
to determine the amount and type of explosives to use,
and to establish safety parameters.
They prepare explosive materials, pack them into blast holes,
and, after detonating, write detailed records
to comply with local and federal laws regulating the use of explosives.
Ordnance handlers move munitions
and other explosive materials for storage or transportation,
typically via rail car or airplane.
Positions for these workers are located in construction companies,
airlines and airplane manufacturers,
rock and gravel quarries, the oil and gas industry, and the military.
Explosives workers generally need a high school diploma or equivalent.