Explosives Testing & Detection Technician

Applied Research Associates, Inc.; Alabama; On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) seeks an explosives technician to join the Detection Technology Center on-site at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL.

You will handle explosives and hazardous materials, run tests with explosive detection systems, and manage test data in a collaborative, safety-focused environment. The role requires a high school diploma or equivalent, 4–5 years of related experience, strong attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 4–5 years experience handling explosives or hazardous materials, or in a security/testing/lab setting; familiarity with EDS preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to work with internal teams and external partners.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lb and work safely in lab/testing environments.
• Background investigation and TS clearance eligibility; current TS clearance highly desired.

Responsibilities

• Safely handle explosives and hazardous materials in designated test containers per procedures and safety protocols.
• Execute established test plans by placing threat materials in test articles and processing them through EDS.
• Download, verify, organize, and archive EDS images and related data; ensure secure transfer for partner labs.
• Collaborate with EDS vendors, FBI, TSA, and stakeholders to identify and resolve equipment issues.
• Support development and refinement of SOPs for EDS equipment and testing activities.
• Perform routine facility maintenance and housekeeping to maintain a safe workplace.
• Record and maintain complete, accurate test records for review by authorized personnel.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Technical problem solving

Written communication

Verbal communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

EDS operation

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) seeks an explosives technician to join the Detection Technology Center on-site at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL.

You will handle explosives and hazardous materials, run tests with explosive detection systems, and manage test data in a collaborative, safety-focused environment. The role requires a high school diploma or equivalent, 4–5 years of related experience, strong attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.