Chemical Operations Technician (PMA)

Summary:

The Chemical Operations Technician safely handles and processes explosive powders and propellants, maintains accurate documentation, supports mixing and casting operations, assists with material movement and facility cleaning, and participates in safety and process improvement activities. The role requires respirator use, forklift certification, and cross‑training across propellant manufacturing tasks.

Key Responsibilities: 

Under the direction of the area manager, handles and processes explosive powders and propellants. The Chemical Operations Technician is responsible for safely and efficiently handling the energetic compositions used in PacSci EMC products. 

 The Chemical Operations Technician is responsible for safely and efficiently handling the energetic compositions used in PSEMC. Under the direction of the area manager, handles and processes explosive powders and propellants. Strict adherence to all Safety and Standard Operating Procedures   

• Strict adherence to all Safety and Standard Operation Procedures 
• Accurate logging of time worked to the appropriate Job Numbers 
• Maintenance of accurate material movement documentation, magazine and oven inventory logs 
• Accurate completion of Material traceability labels  
• Delivery of material to production and other operation lines
• Cleaning of facility, equipment, vehicles, tooling and containers with water and/or solvents 
• Handling and processing of explosive and solvent wastes 
• Completion of Standard work checklists, 5S activities and FOD control 
• Assist in the updating of process documentation  
• Participation in Daily Management meetings 
• Participation in Process Hazards Analysis 
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Propellant Manufacturing Area (PMA) operation responsibilities:

• Weighing out of raw materials (inert, 1.1 and 1.3) from original manufacturer’s containers into the propellant mix or intermediate containers.
• Participate in team efforts (as directed) to;
  • Assemble and break-down cast tooling
  • Receive training for and replicate lining techniques
  • Load and unload mixing / casting operations
  • Initiate and break cure cycles
  • Load & unload dry powder milling equipment
  • Support post operations clean-up activities
  • Completion of travelers and process paperwork buy-offs
  • Support other operations (as needed) with these activities 
• Must be willing to wear a full-face respirator and able to pass a respirator fit-test (no beards)
• Must be able to receive forklift training certification
• Must be willing to cross-train into other propellant and explosive manufacturing activities and work as directed by management

Minimum Qualifications:

• Willingness to handle bulk quantities of explosive materials
• Read and understand written instructions 
• Interact effectively with all levels of the organization
• Complete documentation with a high level of accuracy
• Prioritize tasks and work on several formulations simultaneously
• Perform arithmetic calculations such as percentages, addition, subtraction, division and multiplication 

Education and Experience: 

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years’ experience in a manufacturing environment preferred 
• Previous Ordnance/Energetics experience is a plus
• Due to U.S. Government contract requirements applicable to this position, only U.S. citizens are eligible for employment in this role.

Working Conditions: 

• Indoor and outdoor work areas
• Dayshift 10hrs, 4 days a week
• Overtime availability
• Must be able to lift 30lbs and stand, stoop, and walk intermittently throughout the day while wearing Personal Protective Equipment

In addition to the benefits, you’d expect we also offer flexibility, stability, and prosperity: 

• A bonus payment for all associates, paid quarterly, based on performance and behavior metrics. 
• 70 years of trend setters & trail blazers with new products
• Promote from within culture
• Opportunity to move vertically or laterally
• An interdependent safety culture where safety comes first! We are the shield!