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Forensic Explosives Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lubbock County

Autopsy Technician

Lubbock, TX

$55K - $65K/yr

Summary The Autopsy Technician will assist the Forensic Pathologist in the performance of autopsies ... Subject to various biological/infectious, chemical, mechanical, electrical, explosive and radiation ...

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Forensic Explosives information

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$43.5K

$128.4K

$325K

How much do forensic explosives jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic explosives in the United States is $128,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Explosives Expert, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Explosives Expert, you need a background in chemistry or forensic science, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized training in explosives analysis. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is critical. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help experts meticulously examine evidence and convey findings in legal or investigative settings. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate analysis, supporting criminal investigations, and maintaining safety when handling hazardous materials.

What is the difference between Forensic Explosives vs Forensic Ballistics Technician?

AspectForensic ExplosivesForensic Ballistics Technician
CredentialsCriminal justice, chemistry, or forensic science degrees; certifications in explosives analysisCriminal justice, forensic science degrees; firearms and ballistics certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes involving explosions, field investigationsCrime labs, shooting scenes, firearm analysis labs
Industry UsageExplosive-related crimes, terrorism investigationsGun-related crimes, shooting incident investigations

While both roles involve forensic analysis, Forensic Explosives specialists focus on analyzing explosive devices and related materials, often working with bomb scenes and explosive residues. Forensic Ballistics Technicians primarily analyze firearms, bullets, and cartridge cases to link weapons to crimes. Both roles require specialized certifications and work in forensic laboratories or crime scenes, but their focus areas differ significantly.

What are common challenges faced by forensic explosives specialists during investigations?

Forensic explosives specialists often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, handling unstable materials, and preserving evidence integrity at blast scenes. They must carefully collect and analyze trace residues while maintaining strict safety protocols. Additionally, these professionals frequently collaborate with law enforcement, bomb squads, and laboratory teams to piece together evidence and provide expert testimony, requiring strong communication and meticulous attention to detail.

What are Forensic Explosives experts?

Forensic Explosives experts are specialists who analyze explosives, explosive residues, and related materials as part of criminal investigations. They work to determine the type of explosive used, how it was constructed, and possibly trace its origin. Their findings are often crucial for solving crimes involving bombs or illegal explosives, and they may also testify in court as expert witnesses. These professionals typically have backgrounds in chemistry, forensic science, or engineering, and work in laboratories or with law enforcement agencies.
Forensic Chemist (Explosive)

Forensic Chemist (Explosive)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Indian Head, MD

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Are you a Forensic Chemist looking for an exciting opportunity? We are looking for a Forensic Chemist who specializes in explosives to join our team and provide mission-essential support for our nation's War Fighters. 

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.


  • Perform chemical analysis of recovered materials to detect and identify compounds present to include: explosives, homemade explosive pre-cursors, solvents, acids, bases, drugs, and other hazardous materials.
  • Differentiate trace explosive signatures from contamination and background.
  • Provide information to assist in profiling and signature analysis.
  • Perform appropriate presumptive and confirmatory analyses utilizing the following: colorimetric tests, thin layer chromatography (TLC), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and other instrumentation or techniques as available.
  • Evaluate samples to determine appropriate sample preparation techniques: solvent extraction/filtration, liquid-liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, solid phase micro-extraction, headspace extraction. 
  • Understand, and strive to implement, data quality and reporting guidelines established within the professional forensic community, Properly utilize reference standards (when available) to support the highest degree of confidence available in reported results.
  • Perform instrument troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • Develop and validate analytical techniques to accommodate emerging chemical analysis requirements.
  • Interact and collaborate with other group/team members and other forensic staff to ensure a high quality and accurate product.

AMS1

#TXP & AXC-GO


  • Current DOD Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
  • Ten (10) years of experience working in an accredited laboratory with explosive compounds.
  • Degree from an accredited college or university in physical or life sciences with a minimum of 24 semester hours of chemistry coursework.
  • Proficient in use of excel/spreadsheets and other data bases.
  • Ability to explain technical subject matter to non-technical audience.
  • Completion of formalized training program and subsequent performance as certified examiner within drug chemistry, trace analysis, explosives chemistry or related discipline.
  • Experience working within a CEXC, WTI, C-IED Team, DTK Lab, JEFF, TEDAC facility, other NGIC, DIA or ATF Lab; interagency or state/local law enforcement environment is preferred but not required.

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $100,000.00/Yr. - USD $120,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
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