EPL Propellant Tech

POSITION SUMMARY:

The propellant technician is crucial role within the propellant engineering team. Their work provides the foundation to ARC Automotive’s propellant/booster research and development. In this role, the technician will perform analytical testing, closed chamber combustion (CCC) testing, and operate propellant processing equipment. Routine operation of these machines is expected to be performed under minimal supervision. Advanced operation and/or method development will be performed in close collaboration with the scientists and engineers of the propellant team.  

The propellant technician will routinely handle energetic and hazardous materials. Strict adherence to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines, as well as compliance with ATF, RCRA, and DOT regulations is a critical requirement of the position. 

The job listing may be filled at a technician I-IV level, based on the skills and experience of the applicant. Higher level technicians are expected to take on additional responsibilities within the team. This includes developing a deeper understanding of the team's analytical and processing equipment to allow for more advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting, as well as acting as a leader within the technician team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

1. Conducts routine analytical testing under minimal supervision, including DSC, moisture, particle size, sieve stack, density, and crush strength. Conducts specialized testing with the guidance of a scientist or engineer.
2. Operates propellant processing equipment under minimal supervision, including milling, fluid bed granulation/drying, high shear granulation, and tablet pressing.
3. Works closely with the scientists and engineers of the propellant team to develop procedures for new processes.
4. Performs limited troubleshooting on the laboratory analytical and processing equipment.
5. Assembles, maintains, and tests CCC units and provides data and observations in a timely manner.
6. Performs limited data preparation and data analysis to support timely assessment of laboratory tests.
7. Develops and writes work instructions with the help of scientists and engineers.   
8. Provides cross-training to other technicians on processes and procedures.
9. Builds energetic assemblies as needed. 
10. Acquires and maintains RCRA and DOT certifications for hazardous waste management, handling and shipping.
11. Disposition non-compliant energetics in accordance with RCRA and DOT regulations for EPL, ARC Knoxville.
12. Maintain EPL energetics inventory and magazines in compliance with ATF regulations 27CFR Alcohol, Tobacco Products and Firearms.
13. Submits purchase requisitions and material transfer requests to support EPL and engineering needs.
14. Performs periodic/monthly preventative maintenance on equipment as assigned.
15. Follows all written and implied safety rules.
16. May provide support to other North American facilities.
17. Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

High school diploma or *equivalent, with a minimum of five (5) years of related experience or two year technical degree in area of specialization and three (3) years related experience. Must have mechanical experience and the ability to repair/build fixturing. Must have strong attention to detail and the ability to read, understand, interpret and follow written instructions and technical drawings. Manual dexterity is required as well as the ability to stand for eight (8) hours. Must have basic computer skills and be familiar with standard computer programs such as Excel, Word, etc. with an emphasis on spreadsheet functions. Must have excellent communication and multi-tasking skills. Must be able to pass a BATF background check.

*Any equivalent combination of relevant experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work will take place in a shop environment. Employee may be required to work weekends, holidays and be on-call on occasion. While performing the duties of this job, employees will be exposed to mechanical or chemical processes requiring the use of personal protective equipment. The employee will be expected to have excellent hearing. The employee may encounter controlled air conditions with frequent air changes, environmental exposure, lift up to 45 pounds, and will be in close contact with energetic material during normal work activities.  

These are considered essential duties and are illustrative of those job tasks, which are fundamental. Employees may be required to perform additional related duties as may be assigned by management. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.