Shotfirer
- Salary: Competitive
- Hours: Mon - Fri (40 hours)
- Location: Hemerdon Mine, PL7 5BW
Overview
Tungsten West plc is a mining company based in the UK, dedicated to restarting and operating the Hemerdon Tungsten Mine near Plymouth. As one of the largest tungsten resources in the western world, Hemerdon plays a vital role in supporting technologies essential for future innovation. We prioritise our employees' growth and wellbeing by offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative workplace culture.
Job Summary
As the Shotfirer, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient and controlled execution of blasting operations across the open-cut mining operation. Working closely with the Drill & Blast, Mining, Geology, Survey and Operations teams, you will ensure blast designs are implemented correctly to achieve production targets while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance and environmental performance.
Responsibilities
- Safely plan, prepare and execute blasting activities in accordance with approved blast specifications, shotfiring rules and legislative requirements.
- Review blast designs, drilling, survey and geological information to ensure blasting activities can be carried out safely and effectively.
- Verify blast hole locations, depths, conditions and charging requirements before loading explosives.
- Handle, transport, store and use explosives in accordance with company procedures, licence conditions and legal requirements.
- Supervise and undertake charging activities, ensuring explosives and initiation systems are installed correctly.
- Establish, manage and maintain blast exclusion zones, ensuring all personnel, equipment and access points are properly controlled.
- Conduct pre-blast inspections, safety checks and communications before authorising and firing blasts.
- Carry out post-blast inspections, assess blast outcomes and ensure areas are safe before reopening operations.
- Identify, manage and report suspected or confirmed misfires in accordance with site procedures and statutory requirements.
- Complete blast reporting, reconciliation and record keeping, including explosives usage, blast performance and environmental observations.
- Promote a strong safety culture by conducting risk assessments, reporting hazards and exercising Stop Work authority where required.
- Minimise environmental impacts including flyrock, vibration, air overpressure, dust, fumes and noise.
What You'll Need To Succeed
- MPQC Level 3 Diploma in Shotfiring for the Extractive and Minerals Processing Industries (603/1029/7) or an equivalent recognised qualification.
- Previous experience in shotfiring, quarrying, mining or large-scale blasting operations.
- Formal appointment as a Shotfirer by a Quarry Operator or the ability to obtain appointment.
- Strong understanding of explosives handling, blasting practices, health and safety legislation and quarry regulations.
- Excellent safety awareness with the ability to make calm, methodical decisions in high-risk environments.
- Strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- High levels of professionalism, reliability, accountability and attention to detail.
- Confidence to challenge unsafe behaviour and stop work when conditions are unsafe.
- Competence in site emergency procedures, misfire management and maintaining accurate operational records.
If you are interested, click apply or reach out to the recruitment team for more information.
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
