Explosives Operator

Critical Materials Group•Ballinger, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
1–3+ years of experience in chemical manufacturing, hazardous materials handling, or explosives/energetics production.
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.

Nice To Haves

associate degree or technical certification in chemistry, process technology, manufacturing, or a related field preferred.
Prior military EOD, ATF-related, or defense industry experience is a strong plus.

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.