- Salary statistics
- Boom box
Boom box
43 500 - 46 000 kr / month
Industriell tillverkning
Salary progression Boom box
What does a blaster do? – Tasks and work environment
A blaster is responsible for performing controlled explosions in rock and stone at locations such as road constructions, tunnel projects, and mining operations. Tasks include planning, drilling blast holes, loading explosives, and carefully monitoring safety procedures. Documentation of work and collaboration with other trades on the construction site are also required. The work environment is often physically demanding, outdoors under varying weather conditions, and sometimes in remote locations. High safety awareness is crucial, as the work involves handling explosive materials and working near heavy machinery.
Salary development over time
Blasters have experienced clear variations in salary over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,800 kronor per month. In 2023, the salary increased significantly to 47 800 kronor, representing an approximate 11.7% rise. In 2024, the average salary was adjusted downward slightly to 46 000 kronor, which may be due to changes in demand or an increased supply of trained workers. Such salary fluctuations are common in professions where project-based work and economic cycles play a significant role. Despite the slight decline between 2023 and 2024, the profession remains well-paid compared to many other sectors within construction and civil engineering. Market needs for large infrastructure investments and technological advancements that change work processes also influence salary development.
Blaster salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 46 000 kr/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
- Hourly wage: 277 kr
- Gender differences: Men earn 46 400 kr, data on women is unavailable
- Regional differences: Specific data missing
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a blaster usually involves high school construction and civil engineering programs with specialization in construction vehicles or rock work, or through adult education and specialized courses. To work independently, a blasting certificate is required, and sometimes additional certifications depending on the workplace’s requirements. Practical experience is valuable, and many start as apprentices or through internships before being assigned full responsibilities.
- Education: Construction and civil engineering programs (3 years) or adult education
- Certification: Blasting certificate (mandatory)
- Internship: Apprenticeship period common
- Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, and safety awareness
- Tips for choosing: Verify the trainer’s authority to issue blasting certificates
Blasters often work on project basis and may have opportunities to work at different locations across the country, sometimes abroad. The variation in work environment and project size makes the profession both challenging and diverse, providing broad experience within the construction and civil engineering sector.
Common benefits and compensation
Typical benefits for blasters include per diem allowances when working in other locations, compensation for unsocial hours, and access to protective equipment and work clothing. Wellness contributions and opportunities for skill development, especially in safety and new techniques, are often offered. Depending on the employer, bonuses or special allowances may also be available for large projects.
Competition and challenges
Competition for jobs as a blaster can vary depending on the region and ongoing projects within the construction and civil engineering sector. Since the profession requires specialized training and certification, the supply of qualified workers is relatively limited, which benefits those with the right skills. At the same time, the work involves risk management and high safety standards, demanding meticulousness and concentration. Challenges may also arise when working under difficult weather conditions or in remote environments where access to services and support is limited. Keeping up with new regulations and techniques is also important to remain competitive in the labor market.
Tips for aspiring blasters
To succeed as a blaster, it’s important to have a strong safety mindset and be precise in your work, as handling explosives requires absolute accuracy. An interest in technology helps in understanding machinery and work processes, and flexibility is an asset since projects often involve new locations and varying environments. Good teamwork skills are appreciated, as work is often performed in teams with other professionals. Physical endurance is helpful for outdoor work and tough conditions. Engagement in ongoing training, especially in safety, can open more opportunities. The ability to stay calm and make quick decisions under pressure is also crucial. Finally, showing initiative and responsibility during training often leads to internships and employment opportunities.
Key facts about Blasters
- Education level: High school or adult education with blasting certificate
- Work environment: Outdoors, often on construction sites and in tunnel or mining environments
- Typical employment: Project-based or contract work
- Demand: 1,437 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
- Special skills: Certified handling of explosive materials
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, many blasters gain broad experience and can take on greater responsibilities as foremen or project managers within larger blasting operations. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts do not provide an exact outlook due to limited statistical data, but the number of available positions indicates continued demand. Specialization in tunnel work or advanced blasting techniques can lead to higher positions or consultancy roles. Opportunities also exist to work internationally, especially on major infrastructure projects. Continuing education and certifications can further strengthen market position.
Frequently asked questions about Blasters
- What does a Blaster earn?
- A blaster earns on average 46 000 kronor per month. - What education is required to become a blaster?
- High school construction and civil engineering programs or adult education with blasting certificates are required. - What is the work environment like for a blaster?
- The work environment is often outdoors, sometimes in tunnel or mining environments, and can be physically demanding. - Are there regional differences in salary?
- Specific regional salary data is lacking, but variations may occur depending on the labor market and projects. - What benefits can a blaster receive?
- Common benefits include per diem allowances, compensation for unsociable hours, and wellness contributions. - What are the future prospects for the profession?
- No precise forecast exists, but many job openings suggest ongoing demand. - How much does a part-time blaster earn?
- The hourly wage for a blaster is approximately 277 kronor.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 43500 kr | 46000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 43500 kr | 46000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 43500 kr | 46000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 43800 kr | 46400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 43800 kr | 46400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 43800 kr | 46400 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Boom box has the SSYK code 8115, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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