Explosives Operator
Critical Materials Group · Ballinger, TX
Safely handles, processes and produces energetic materials, including explosives and propellants, through synthesis, formulation and packaging. Monitors processes, performs quality checks, maintains equipment and documents batches in line with safety and regulatory standards.
What you'll do
- Prepare solutions, mixtures and raw materials for energetic material synthesis
- Monitor synthesis processes via cameras, sensors and control systems
- Mix, dry, granulate, press or extrude explosive materials
- Conduct in-process testing and quality checks
- Document batches, material usage and incidents per regulations
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 1-3+ years in chemical manufacturing, hazmat handling or explosives/energetics production
- ATF Explosives Handler or User Permit eligibility (background check and fingerprinting)
- HAZMAT training and certification
- OSHA safety training or equivalent explosives safety courses
- Understanding of explosives safety principles, compatibility groups and hazard classifications
- Ability to read manufacturing procedures, batch records and technical drawings
- Proficiency with basic lab/process equipment and basic computer skills
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs and pass background, drug and medical screening
- Willingness to work shifts, overtime or on-call
Nice to have
- Associate degree or technical certification in chemistry, process technology, manufacturing or related field
- Prior military EOD, ATF-related or defense industry experience
Skills
Outlined skills are listed as required.
Full original description
JOB DESCRIPTION
Explosives Operator
Department
Production & Engineering
Reports To
Head of Production
Location
Ballinger, TX
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt
Employment Type
Full-Time
POSITION SUMMARY
The Explosives Operator is responsible for the safe, precise handling, processing, and production of energetic materials at CMG's Talpa, TX facility. This role prepares, mixes, and processes explosive and propellant materials through synthesis, formulation, and packaging, while maintaining strict adherence to safety, quality, and regulatory standards at every step — playing a critical role in ensuring CMG's manufacturing operations meet the exacting standards of safety and reliability required to build what America depends on.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
▪ 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.
▪ Perform processing techniques for energetic materials — 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 (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 per federal, state, and company regulations.
▪ Follow all safety protocols — PPE, grounding procedures, static control, and quantity-distance (Q-D) rules.
▪ Assist with material receiving, storage, and shipping of finished energetic products under regulated conditions.
QUALIFICATIONS
▪ High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification in chemistry, process technology, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.
▪ 1–3+ years of experience in chemical manufacturing, hazardous materials handling, or explosives/energetics production. Prior military EOD, ATF-related, or defense industry experience is a strong plus.
▪ 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.
▪ 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.) and basic computer skills for process monitoring and documentation.
CORE 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.
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS
▪ 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.
CLEARANCE & COMPENSATION
▪ Clearance: Federal security clearance not required; ATF background check/fingerprinting and eligibility required.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Critical Materials Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
This job description reflects the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Critical Materials Group reserves the right to amend this description at any time.