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Average Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters Salary in Oklahoma

Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters in Oklahoma earn an average annual salary of $55,340. This figure is notably below the national average of $68,590, reflecting regional economic factors and demand specific to the Sooner State. The specialized nature of this field, combined with local industry needs, influences compensation levels.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $55,340 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.6% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $67,890.
  • Outlook: With a total local workforce of 340 individuals, the market for Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters in Oklahoma is relatively niche. However, a Location Quotient of 5.45 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average. This suggests a robust local demand relative to the size of the workforce, implying a stable job market for skilled individuals in this sector.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$55,340

The average Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters in Oklahoma earns-19.3%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$26.6

Weekly

$1,064

Monthly

$4,612

Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters Salary Distribution in Oklahoma

Career progression for Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior roles, requiring extensive knowledge, certifications, and a proven safety record, command higher compensation. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify these opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$43,410$20.9
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$41,505$20
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$56,180$27
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$69,175$33.3
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$67,890$32.6

Detailed Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$55,340

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$64,349

Adjusted for COL (86)

The nominal average salary of $55,340 in Oklahoma presents a favorable financial picture when considering the local Cost of Living Index of 86. Since the national average index is 100, Oklahoma offers a significantly more affordable lifestyle. This means that the $55,340 earned locally likely has greater purchasing power than a similar salary in a higher-cost state, making the effective financial standing for these workers quite competitive.

Job Market Context

340

Total Jobs

0.201

Per 1K Jobs

5.45

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Oklahoma has 5.5x the national concentration of Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.

Oklahoma's Location Quotient of 5.45 for Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters is exceptionally high, indicating a substantial concentration of these professionals relative to the national average. This suggests that Oklahoma is a key hub for this industry, with a specialized talent pool and potentially strong demand driven by local industries such as mining, construction, or defense contracting.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasterss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters make in Oklahoma?

The median annual salary for a Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters in Oklahoma is $55,340. This typically ranges from $43,410 for entry-level positions to $67,890 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Oklahoma is 19.3% lower than the national median of $68,590.

Is Oklahoma a lucrative place for Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters?

Yes, considering the cost of living.While the nominal salary is below the national average, Oklahoma's low cost of living means your earnings have greater purchasing power. The high concentration of these professionals also suggests strong local demand.

Is Oklahoma a good place to live for Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters?

With a Cost of Living Index of 86 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

How does Oklahoma's cost of living affect the salary?

Oklahoma's Cost of Living Index of 86 means that $55,340 provides a higher standard of living than the same amount would in a more expensive state, effectively making the salary more valuable locally.

What does a Location Quotient of 5.45 mean for this job?

A Location Quotient of 5.45 signifies that Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters are 5.45 times more concentrated in Oklahoma than the national average, indicating a specialized and potentially high-demand market.

How many Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters are there in Oklahoma?

There are approximately 340 Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters employed in Oklahoma.

Is the job market for blasters growing in Oklahoma?

While specific growth rates aren't provided, the high concentration (LQ of 5.45) and the essential nature of blasting services in industries like mining and construction suggest a stable to growing demand for skilled professionals.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 340 employees in the Oklahoma area with a job density of 0.201 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.