ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Explosive Handling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Department of the Army

The primary purpose of the AMMUNITION INSPECTOR, WG-6501-9, is to perform the handling, storage, examining, transporting, and identifying of ammunition and explosives to detect defects ...

Stratolaunch

Propulsion Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Experience with aerospace-grade hardware, mechanical design best practices, and ASME y14.5 * Familiarity with explosives handling and classification * Experience with ground test hardware, including ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExplosive Handling JobsExplosive Handling Jobs in California

Explosive Handling information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$42

How much do explosive handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive handling in California is $22.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is explosive handling?

An Explosive Handling job involves the safe transportation, storage, inspection, and disposal of explosives and hazardous materials. Professionals in this role follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulations. They may work in industries such as defense, construction, mining, or demolition. Training and certification in handling explosives are typically required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in explosive handling?

To thrive in Explosive Handling, you need specialized knowledge of explosives, safety protocols, and governmental regulations, often validated by certifications like a CDL with hazmat endorsement or military equivalent. Competence with detection and disposal equipment, electronic monitoring systems, and safety gear is crucial. Attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and strong teamwork skills are highly valued in this field. These qualifications are vital to ensure the safety of yourself and others while handling hazardous materials in compliance with strict industry standards.

What is a typical work environment like for explosive handling professionals?

Explosive handling professionals often work in highly controlled environments such as military bases, mining operations, demolition sites, or specialized manufacturing facilities. The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols and frequently involves working as part of a specialized team alongside engineers, safety officers, and project managers. Daily tasks may include inspecting, transporting, or disposing of explosives, conducting safety drills, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. While the work is demanding and requires constant focus, it is highly structured to prioritize the safety of all personnel involved.

What are popular job titles related to Explosive Handling jobs in California?

For Explosive Handling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Explosive Handling jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Explosive Handling jobs in California are:

Explosive Handling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosive Handling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,611 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Energetics Chemist-Propulsion/Explosives (California)

GTN Technical Staffing

Hollister, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Explosives Chemist-R&D (Energetic Materials, Propellent, Explosive)


Overview

We are seeking an R&D Chemist to support the development and production of energetic materials used in safety-critical devices, including automotive airbags, aircraft evacuation slide inflators, and emergency hatch/canopy separation systems. This role combines hands-on lab work with formulation development, hazard analysis, and production support.

Key Responsibilities

  • Formulate and develop propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnic mixtures for use in safety devices
  • Handle and process explosive powders, mixtures, and other energetic materials in accordance with safety protocols
  • Conduct wet chemistry work related to fuel and oxidizer components for energetic formulations
  • Write and execute test plans for new and existing formulations
  • Perform hazard analyses on materials, processes, and formulations
  • Support production/manufacturing operations, ensuring formulations transition successfully from lab to scale
  • Maintain documentation and compliance related to explosive material handling and safety standards
  • Provide training or mentorship on safe explosive handling practices to other personnel, as needed

Required Qualifications

  • Hands-on laboratory experience (chemistry, materials science, or related discipline)
  • Demonstrated experience handling propellants, explosives, and/or energetic powders
  • Experience writing technical test plans and conducting hazard/safety analyses
  • Background in explosives, propellants, or pyrotechnics formulation or manufacturing

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience in production/manufacturing environments for energetic materials
  • Experience teaching or training others in explosive handling procedures
  • Familiarity with regulatory requirements governing energetic materials (e.g., DOT, ATF, DoD standards, as applicable)

Working Conditions

  • Role involves regular exposure to explosive powders, mixtures, and other hazardous materials
  • Requires strict adherence to safety protocols in lab and production settings

Apply