What are the responsibilities and job description for the BOMB TECHNICIAN position at Navy?
ABOUT
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technicians have expertise in the most conventional and unconventional explosives to ensure the secure disposal of explosive weaponry. They are on call to respond to any type of ordnance, and they receive specialized training to handle chemical, biological and nuclear weapons. They investigate and demolish natural and man-made underwater obstructions, prepare coastal regions for amphibious landings, and warn about potential threats at home and abroad.
Whether getting the job done in a bomb suit or by utilizing state-of-the-art robotic technology, Navy EODs are trained to use the most advanced tools of their kind in a role that’s vital to the safety of servicemembers and civilians.
RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Navy EOD Technician, you will have many far-ranging duties that can cast you on missions across the world. Your duties may require you to :
- Detonate and demolish hazardous munitions, pyrotechnics and outdated explosives
- Work with cutting-edge technology to remotely disable unsafe ordnance
- Perform parachute or helicopter insertion operations
- Support law enforcement agencies
- Clear waterways of mines in support of the Fleet
Your unique skills and knowledge will add to the strengths of other Special Operations units, as well as your own. As an EOD Technician, you may also :
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Your missions will take you to every corner of the world. One assignment may have you parachuting from 17,000 feet, while the next may deliver you via an 11-meter Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB). It all depends on which unit you’re supporting and the type of mission to be completed, as well as the required equipment weight of each team member, weather conditions and other parameters.
TRAINING & ADVANCEMENT
Becoming an EOD Technician is no easy process. While the rigorous 51 weeks of training are both physically and mentally grueling, you will be rewarded with unrivaled leadership opportunities, first-rate compensation and respect.
After two months of recruit training in Great Lakes, Ill., your EOD training will begin.
Air Ordnance Division – Focuses on bombs and missiles
Upon successful completion the EOD training pipeline, graduates are assigned to EOD Mobile Units where they gain advanced on-the-job training and experience as members of Mobile Teams, Carrier Strike Group / Expeditionary Strike Group Companies, Naval Special Warfare Companies and Marine Mammal Companies.
Advanced Training – EOD technicians may pursue a number of advanced training options to hone and specialize their skills
For those with further leadership aspirations and a college degree, Officer roles are available – providing the opportunity to lead and train others.
Promotion opportunities are regularly available but competitive and based on performance. It’s also important to note that specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Members of the Naval Special Warfare / Naval Special Operations (NSW / NSO) community have any number of unique opportunities to advance their education. Navy training provides skills and knowledge in everything from the fundamentals of explosive ordnance disposal to chemical and biological warfare, military tactics, deep-sea diving or a number of other tactical military procedures.
Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy training in the EOD community can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education. You may also continue your education through opportunities like :
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Males and females are eligible to apply to become enlisted Navy EOD Technicians. No college degree is required, but a high degree of difficulty and satisfaction is standard. Training is tough and ongoing. You can apply for the Navy Challenge contract for EOD Technicians at any time during your first enlistment.
Entry Requirements
The chart below highlights the current minimum Navy Physical Screening Test (PST) requirements for Navy Challenge Programs.
Additional requirements specific to Active Duty EOD Technician candidates include :
NOTE : You should consult your physician or other health-care professional before starting any exercise regime or other fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. This is particularly true if you (or your family) have a history of medical illnesses or ailments that could be made worse by a change in physical activity. Do not start a fitness program if your physician or health-care provider advises against it.
General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.
