Skeena Gold + Silver Limited is a Canadian mining company with a portfolio of exploration and development projects located in northwest British Columbia, Canada. Our current focus is on the revitalization of the high-grade, past-producing Eskay Creek gold-silver mine. Skeena is committed to leading the industry in reconciliation, diversity, and inclusion and we work in close collaboration with our Indigenous partners, leveraging their traditional knowledge and respect for the land.
As a Skeena employee, you will become part of a dynamic, innovative, and results-driven work environment. Together, alongside colleagues of diverse backgrounds and experience you will help us operate safely, protect the environment, positively contribute to our local communities and build a state of the art mine in Canada. Come join our team to be a part of this amazing opportunity!
Job Title: Blaster
Reporting to: Supervisor, Drill & Blast, the Blaster is responsible for the safe handling, loading, initiation, and post blast evaluation of explosives in an open-pit mining environment. The role ensures blasting activities are executed safely and in accordance with approved blast designs, regulatory requirements, and site safety procedures, with a strong focus on blast precision to control dilution, fragmentation, and wall stability. The Blaster works closely with drilling, geology, and mine operations teams to deliver efficient, compliant blasts that protect personnel, equipment, infrastructure, and the environment.
Responsibilities (including But Not Limited To) Blasting Operations & Execution
- Perform all blasting activities in compliance with Mine Health and Safety legislation and company standards
- Load blast holes in accordance with approved blast designs and instructions
- Conduct tie-in of blasting patterns using non-electric and electronic initiation systems
- Install primers, boosters, detonators, and stemming materials correctly
- Apply controlled blasting techniques such as trim blasting, pre-split, and buffer rows where required
- Safely receive, transport, store, and handle explosives and detonators
- Verify blast hole depth, condition, and suitability prior to loading
- Maintain blast documentation including blast reports, explosive usage logs, and misfire records
- Identify, assess, and mitigate blast-related hazards such as flyrock, vibration, and airblast
- Ensure magazines, blast areas, and work sites are maintained in a clean and organized condition
- Participate in pre-shift meetings, toolbox talks, and Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs)
- Comply with all site safety procedures and risk control measures
- Assist in training and mentoring Blaster Helpers or Trainees in safe explosive handling and blasting practices
- Perform all other duties as reasonably assigned
- Valid British Columbia Blasting Ticket
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record suitable for site vehicle use
- Minimum 3–5 years’ experience blasting in an open-pit mining environment
- Strong knowledge of explosives products and initiation systems and blast deign principles
- Strong understanding of ground conditions and blast impacts
- Commitment to continuous improvement in blast performance and safety
- Ability to work rotating shifts in a remote or industrial environment
Work Location & Conditions
This is a site-based camp job at Eskay Creek Mine site. This position involves working at a remote mine site on a 15 days on/13 days off rotation.
The Eskay Creek Revitalization Project is located within the Coast Mountains of Northwestern British Columbia and Tahltan Territory. Ground transportation will be provided from local communities to the Eskay Creek Site facilities. For those applicants located elsewhere in western Canada, flight transportation from major urban centers will be provided to the Terrace or Smithers airports, from which shuttles will provide transportation to the Eskay Creek Camp facilities. Travel time and expenses are subject to Skeena’s Travel Policy.
There will be exposure to extreme temperatures in all seasons including working outdoors in snow, mud, ice, and water conditions, walking to and from different locations on uneven ground, prolonged periods of standing and physically handling/lifting/moving heavy objects.
Compensation
The expected hourly rate for this position is CAD $52, in line with the competitive job market for such roles carried out in British Columbia. Salary ranges are guidelines and any job offer received by a candidate will be determined on a number of factors such as relevant education, training, and/or experience.
All Applicants MUST be legally entitled to work in Canada. Priority hiring consideration will be given to Indigenous Nations members who reside within the territories our projects are located.
We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.