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Explosive Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Combat engineers primarily supervise, serve or assist as a member of a team when they are tackling ... Place and detonate explosives * Conduct operations that include route clearance of obstacles and ...

*SME Engineer*

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$156K/yr

... Explosives Safety • Ammunition T&E • Basic Electronics, Digital, AC and DC Knowledge • ... D. in Engineering (specific discipline relevant to the role) desired; Bachelor of Science (BS) ...

... Explosives Safety Ammunition T&E Basic Electronics, Digital, AC and DC Knowledge Familiar with Navy Gun Systems EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND LICENSURE: Master's degree or Ph.D. in Engineering (specific ...

Process Safety Eng Sr Prin

Radford, VA · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

Role Overview As a key member of the Hazards Analysis Team, the Principal Safety Professional/Engineer provides explosive and technical safety support across various manufacturing areas at RFAAP.

New

Senior Specialist, EHS (Safety Engineer) Job Code: 40267 Job Location: Culpeper, Virginia Job ... Knowledgeable in munitions, explosives, and energetic materials, and related disciplines, the ...

The general engineer will conduct a thorough vulnerability assessments across various ... Vulnerability Assessment and Protection Option (VAPO), Component Explosives Damage Assessment ...

The general engineer will conduct a thorough vulnerability assessments across various ... Vulnerability Assessment and Protection Option (VAPO), Component Explosives Damage Assessment ...

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Showing results 1-20

Explosive Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$37.7K

$114.9K

$189.9K

How much do explosive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for explosive engineer in Virginia is $114,871.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $150,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Explosive engineers, such as senior or specialized professionals in the field, can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-risk environments like mining, construction, or defense. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with some roles requiring specialized knowledge of explosives and safety protocols.

What engineers make $500,000?

Explosive engineers or specialized chemical engineers working in high-risk industries such as defense, aerospace, or mining can reach salaries around $500,000, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. These positions often require expertise in safety protocols, project management, and technical skills, and may involve working in hazardous environments or on large-scale projects.

What is a typical work environment like for an Explosive Engineer?

Explosive Engineers often split their time between office-based planning and on-site fieldwork, which can include mines, construction sites, or testing facilities. You may collaborate closely with safety officers, site managers, and regulatory authorities to design, implement, and monitor controlled explosions. The role frequently involves strict adherence to safety protocols, detailed documentation, and ongoing risk assessments to ensure compliance with local and federal regulations. While the environment can be high-pressure and requires the utmost precision, it also offers opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology and be part of multidisciplinary teams tackling complex engineering challenges.

What does an explosives engineer do?

An explosives engineer designs, tests, and oversees the use of explosive materials for construction, mining, demolition, and military applications. They ensure safety protocols are followed and often hold certifications in handling hazardous materials. Their work involves precise calculations, understanding of chemistry, and adherence to safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Explosive Engineer position, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Explosive Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical engineering, physics, and materials science, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree and specialized training in explosives. Familiarity with modeling software, blast simulation tools, and certifications such as ATF licensing or IMES compliance are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this field. These competencies are critical for ensuring safety, complying with regulations, and delivering successful project outcomes involving hazardous materials.

What is the salary of an explosive engineer?

The salary of an explosive engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Professionals in this field often require specialized training and certifications, and may work in construction, mining, or military environments with varying pay scales.

What does an Explosive Engineer do?

An Explosive Engineer specializes in the safe design, handling, and use of explosives for various applications such as mining, demolition, and construction. They analyze blast requirements, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and oversee controlled detonations. Their work involves risk assessment, environmental considerations, and collaboration with other engineers to achieve project goals efficiently and safely.

What are the most commonly searched types of Explosive Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Explosive Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Explosive Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,871 per year, or $55.2 per hour.
US Army Combat Engineer (12B)

US Army Combat Engineer (12B)

U.S. Army

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 486 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Overview:
Combat engineers primarily supervise, serve or assist as a member of a team when they are tackling rough terrain in combat situations. They provide their expertise in areas such as mobility, counter mobility, survivability, and general engineering.
Job Duties:
  • Construct fighting positions, fixed/floating bridges, obstacles and defensive positions
  • Place and detonate explosives
  • Conduct operations that include route clearance of obstacles and rivers
  • Prepare and install firing systems for demolition and explosives
  • Detect mines visually or with mine detectors

Eligibility:
  • Must have an interest in joining the Army.
  • 17 to 34 years old.
  • Must be able to meet height/weight requirements
  • No tattoos on hands, face, or above the neck (ring tattoos are acceptable)
  • No history of a felony-level offense.
  • No major medical procedures that would prohibit you from service. (please feel free to ask specific questions).

Training:
Job training for combat engineers requires 14 weeks of One Station Unit Training, which includes Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field with on-the-job instructions.
Some of the skills you’ll learn are:
  • Basic demolitions
  • Basic explosive hazards
  • Constructing wire obstacles
  • Fixed bridge building
  • Basic urban operations
  • Operating heavy equipment 
Helpful Skills:
  • Ability to use hand and power tools
  • Perform strenuous physical activities over long periods of time
  • Interest in engineering
  • Enjoy working outdoors

Required ASVAB Score(s):
Combat (CO): 87
Compensation:
Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. 
Earn Cash For In Demand Jobs:
You could earn up to $50K in cash bonuses just for enlisting under certain Military Occupational Specialties. 
Education Benefits:
In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses.
Future Civilian Careers:
The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career in the fields of construction, building inspection or building engineering.
Thank you!

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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