Explosives Manufacturing Operator

Critical Materials Group; Ballinger (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Critical Materials Group is seeking an Explosives Operator to safely handle, process, and produce energetic materials at the Talpa, TX site. You will prepare, mix, and package materials, following strict safety, quality, and regulatory standards to support U.S.

manufacturing needs. Key tasks include monitoring synthesis via remote systems, performing processing techniques, handling explosive materials, conducting in-process testing, and maintaining equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical cert preferred.
• 1–3+ years in chemical manufacturing, hazardous materials handling, or explosives/energetics production.
• ATF Explosives Handler or User Permit eligibility (background check and fingerprinting required).
• 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.

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.

Skills

Safety-first

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Problem solving

Clear communication

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree or technical cert

Tools

Process control equipment

PH meters

Scales

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Critical Materials Group is seeking an Explosives Operator to safely handle, process, and produce energetic materials at the Talpa, TX site. You will prepare, mix, and package materials, following strict safety, quality, and regulatory standards to support U.S.

manufacturing needs. Key tasks include monitoring synthesis via remote systems, performing processing techniques, handling explosive materials, conducting in-process testing, and maintaining equipment.