Production Technician
San Angelo, TX Area
The Company
Our client is a high-growth startup in one of the most critical pockets within the defense industry: explosives production. They are further increasing our country's capacity to provide the energetic materials necessary for the numerous defense systems that keep us safe; both here at home and around the world. Now more than ever, explosives production is an extremely crucial component, while also being a major bottleneck, in the deployment and utilization of defense systems. Our client is leveraging decades of industry expertise to alleviate this concern and help the United States maintain its military excellence.
The Job
Our client is seeking a Production Technician. This person will be on the production floor, handling the hazardous materials and operating the complex equipment involved in explosives production.
Functions
- Prepare solutions, mixtures, and raw materials used in energetic material synthesis or formulation.
- Monitor explosive or propellant synthesis processes using remote cameras, computer systems, sensors, and process control equipment; identify and respond to normal vs. abnormal conditions to ensure product quality and safety.
- Perform processing techniques for energetic materials, including mixing, drying, granulating, pressing, or extrusion of dry and wet explosives.
- Handle, weigh, measure, and transport explosive materials (including dry powders) between production areas using approved methods and equipment.
- Assemble, load, or pack explosives into components, devices, or containers according to specifications.
- Conduct in-process testing and quality checks, such as using moisture balances, pH meters, scales, and other analytical tools (including calibration).
- Inspect, clean, and maintain production equipment, tools, and work areas to prevent contamination or hazards.
- Document production batches, material usage, inventory, and any deviations or incidents in compliance with federal, state, and company regulations.
- Follow all safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE), grounding procedures, static control, and quantity-distance (Q-D) rules.
- Participate in safety audits, emergency drills, and continuous improvement initiatives related to explosives handling and manufacturing.
- Assist with material receiving, storage, and shipping of finished energetic products under regulated conditions.
Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification in chemistry, process technology, manufacturing, or a related field is preferred.
- Experience: 1-3+ years of experience in chemical manufacturing, hazardous materials handling, or explosives/energetics production. Prior military EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), ATF-related, or defense industry experience is a strong plus.
- Certifications:
- ATF Explosives Handler or User Permit eligibility (background check and fingerprinting required).
- Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) training and certification.
- OSHA safety training (e.g., 30-hour Construction/General Industry) or equivalent explosives safety courses.
- Technical Skills:
- Strong understanding of explosives safety principles, compatibility groups, and hazard classifications.
- Ability to read and follow detailed manufacturing procedures, batch records, and technical drawings.
- Proficiency with basic lab/process equipment (scales, mixers, dryers, pH meters, etc.).
- Basic computer skills for process monitoring and documentation.
- Physical and Other Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in varying environmental conditions (including clean rooms or controlled humidity/temperature areas).
- Excellent eyesight and color vision for precise measurements and inspections.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.
- Must pass rigorous background checks, drug screening, and medical evaluations due to the sensitive nature of the work.
- Willingness to work shifts, including potential overtime or on-call for production runs.
Essential Competencies
- Unwavering commitment to safety and regulatory compliance - zero-tolerance for shortcuts with explosives.
- High reliability, vigilance, and ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Teamwork and clear communication in high-hazard environments.
- Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot process issues without compromising safety.
