Shotfirers in Western Australia

Shotfirers (explosives workers or blasters) are critical to the mining industry in Western Australia (WA).

Their efforts and attention to detail ensure mine sites have safe working environments. 

WA has a world-class mining and resources industry and shotfirers play an important role in this sector.

Are you a shotfirer considering a change of location?

You’ll have the opportunity to work in opencast and underground mines, quarries, and demolition sites across a variety of mining and demolition projects in WA.

Below you can find out more about what you need to work as a shotfirer in WA, and what you need to move. If you’re ready to check out all the shotfirer jobs available now, go to Seek.

Shotfirer licences in WA

To work as a shotfirer in WA, you must undertake a specialised surface and/or underground operations training course that is registered with Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). Find a full list of training organisations on the DMIRS website.

If you gained your WA shotfirer’s licence before the 1 January 2014, you’ll need to be re-assessed against the current standards 6-months before your licence expires.

Further advice on shotfirer licence requirements in WA can be found on the DMIRS website.

Required registration and licences

  • Shotfirer licence

You may also require:

  • A National Police Check

  • Western Australian dangerous goods security card

Shotfirers moving to WA from another state or territory within Australia

If you hold a shotfirer licence issued by any other Australian state or territory you do not need to obtain a WA licence. There is no current requirement to apply for mutual recognition (external link) of your interstate licence in order to work in WA as a shotfirer.

How much can I earn as a shotfirer in Australia?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Employee Earnings (May 2021 release), shotfirers earn an estimated $134,404 per year. 

$134,404

What kind of work could I have as a shotfirer in WA?

Some work WA shotfirers can expect as part of their role include:

·       Deciding on the quantity and type of explosives required for a blast

·       Checking potential blasting areas to ensure safety regulations have been followed

·       Detonating explosives

·       Testing the blasting circuit

·       Managing explosive stock control.

How to become an shotfirer in WA

Before working as a shotfirer in WA, it is important to obtain the appropriate shotfirer licence for the type and class of work you’ll be conducting.

Depending on the industry you work in, the type of qualifications and licences that you require may vary. Refer to the list of recognised shotfirer training courses and providers by DMIRS.

Learn more about a career as a shotfirer through the Jobs & Skills WA website.

Ready to look for your next shotfirer role in WA?

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