1

Explosive Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will provide general knowledge and subject matter expertise as a Mechanical, Chemical or Materials Engineer with a background in combustion and/or explosives in support of ...

The successful candidate will provide general knowledge and subject matter expertise as a Mechanical, Chemical or Materials Engineer with a background in combustion and/or explosives in support of ...

ENGINEER

Indian Head, MD ยท On-site +1

$70K - $158K/yr

Summary You will serve as an ENGINEER in the Systems Engineering Department (E), Weapons Research ... live, explosive ordnance. * You will also be responsible to participate in commission ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Indian Head, MD ยท On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

These projects will require knowledge of and close coordination with explosives and munitions ... The ideal Mechanical Engineer will be eager to learn, embrace a safety-first mindset, and work ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Explosive Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$42.9K

$130.7K

$216.1K

How much do explosive engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for explosive engineer in Washington, DC is $130,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $170,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Explosive engineers or specialized engineers in high-demand fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or nuclear engineering can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. These positions often require extensive technical skills, security clearances, and work in high-risk or complex environments.

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 analyze safety protocols, develop blasting techniques, and ensure compliance with regulations, often working with specialized tools and requiring certifications in handling hazardous materials.

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 are the top 3 highest paid engineers?

Explosive engineers, a specialized field within engineering, typically earn high salaries due to the hazardous nature of their work and the required expertise. The highest paid engineering roles generally include petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and computer hardware engineers, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually depending on experience and location.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Explosive engineers or specialized chemical engineers working in high-risk industries such as defense, mining, or oil and gas can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. Salaries depend on industry, location, and level of expertise, with some senior professionals in niche fields reaching this income level.
What are popular job titles related to Explosive Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Explosive Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Explosive Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Explosive Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist

Mission One

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Tuition assistance
  • Vision insurance

Position OverviewThe Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist provides expert-level technical and operational support to the defense community and associated mission partners. This role is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and disposing of conventional and unconventional explosive threats in dynamic environments. The EOD Specialist serves as a critical enabler for mission assurance, force protection, and operational readiness across training, exercise, and real-world contingency operations. This position requires deep familiarity with USSOCOM operational requirements, interagency coordination, and the ability to perform in high-risk, high-visibility environments with minimal oversight.
Key Responsibilities
The EOD Specialist will:
  • Conduct explosive hazard assessments, improvised explosive device (IED) identification, and ordnance reconnaissance.
  • Execute EOD render-safe procedures and disposal activities in accordance with DoD and joint service standards.
  • Provide advisory support to senior leaders, staff elements, and mission planners regarding threats, mitigation tactics, and risk reduction strategies.
  • Support mission partners and subordinate units in training evolution design, operational rehearsals, and mission preparation activities.
  • Prepare and deliver technical reports, explosive incident documentation, safety briefs, and after-action reviews (AARs).
  • Operate and maintain EOD tools and equipment.
  • Conduct technical exploitation of explosive ordnance and related materials, supporting intelligence-driven efforts when applicable.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, DoD, and theater-level safety standards, including handling, storage, and transport protocols.
  • Partner with interagency, coalition, and host-nation entities to align best practices and coordinate safe disposal activities.
  • Provide mentoring and technical leadership to junior personnel and supporting staff, enhancing capability maturity and readiness.

Required Qualifications
Experience
  • Minimum 5 years of operational experience in Explosive Ordnance Disposal, including deployments or high-threat mission environments.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting the USSOCOM community.
  • Proven ability to operate within joint and interagency frameworks, delivering mission outcomes in high-tempo settings.

Education
  • Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in a related field such as:
    • Homeland Security
    • Explosive Engineering
    • Counterterrorism Studies
    • Criminal Justice
    • Emergency Management
    • Military Studies
    • Engineering, Physics, or Applied Sciences
    • National Security / Intelligence Studies
    • Or, similar degree
      (Equivalent specialized training and extensive EOD experience may be considered when aligned to contract requirements.)

Security Clearance
  • Active Secret clearance required at minimum
  • Top Secret (TS/Poly) strongly preferred

Preferred Qualifications
  • Current or prior qualification as U.S. Military EOD Technician (Ex: Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, etc.)
  • Experience working with partner forces, coalition units, or foreign internal defense training environments
  • Strong briefing, reporting, and stakeholder-engagement skills (senior leader and operator-facing)

Core Competencies
The ideal candidate demonstrates:
  • Operational resilience under pressure
  • Precision technical execution
  • Strategic risk management mindset
  • Mission-centric problem solving
  • High-trust professionalism and discretion
  • Strong communication and collaborative leadership

Compensation: $100,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year
Mission One - Where People Matter
As a national security, information technology, and intelligence-focused organization at Mission One, we seek to push the boundaries of innovation to produce cutting-edge defense and intelligence tools that address current and emerging national security threats.
Our expertise in defense contracting allows us to harness the transformative power of advanced technology. Through this combination, we bring situational awareness to the next level, forging intelligent support capabilities and fortifying critical infrastructure like never before. Working closely with esteemed government partners, we tackle constantly evolving security challenges head-on. Our secure and scalable solutions instill unwavering safety and resilience in our nation.
Careers at Mission One
To explore career opportunities with Mission One, simply send our team your most up-to-date resume and highlight your interests and areas of expertise. If your skills and interests align with our openings, our team will reach out to you to discuss potential opportunities.
Key Considerations for a Career in National Security
Meeting Qualifications
Joining a team that contributes to national security efforts typically requires meeting specific qualifications, such as educational background, security clearances, and relevant experience. Each organization or agency may have its own specific requirements and application processes.
Impact and Purpose
Working in national security allows you to have a direct impact on the protection and well-being of your country and its citizens. Your efforts can help prevent potential threats and contribute to the safety and security of your nation.
Diverse Career Opportunities
National security offers a wide range of career paths to suit different skills, backgrounds, and interests. Whether you're excited about intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, law enforcement, diplomacy, or emergency management, the national security field has various roles available.
Continuous Learning and Development
National security is an ever-evolving field. Joining a national security-focused organization often means engaging in ongoing training and professional development to stay up-to-date on new threats, technologies, and strategies. This continuous learning provides intellectual stimulation and helps you develop valuable skills throughout your career.
Collaborative Work Environment
National security efforts require collaboration and teamwork. As a part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside professionals from diverse backgrounds, including government agencies, military personnel, intelligence analysts, law enforcement agencies, and private sector organizations. This collaborative environment promotes the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and innovative ideas.
High-Stakes Challenges
National security work often involves complex and high-stakes challenges. As a member of our team, you may be tasked with analyzing intelligence, identifying vulnerabilities, formulating strategies, responding to crises, or developing new technologies. The fast-paced nature of the work provides a sense of purpose and excitement as you tackle important issues.
Professional Growth and Advancement
A career in national security offers opportunities for professional growth and advancement. As you gain experience and expertise, you'll have the chance to take on leadership roles, work on specialized projects, or pursue advanced positions within our organization or the broader national security community.
Job Security
National security is a vital and enduring aspect of a nation's stability. As a result, there is often a demand for skilled professionals in this field, providing a level of job security and stability.
Commitment to Ethical Practices
At Mission One, we are committed to upholding ethical standards, respecting civil liberties, and ensuring the protection of individual rights. These principles guide our decision-making process and promote accountability within the field.