Lead Production Technician

Lead Production Technician

San Angelo, TX Area

The Company

Our client is a high-growth startup in one of the most critical pockets within the defense industry: explosives production. They are further increasing our country's capacity to provide the energetic materials necessary for the numerous defense systems that keep us safe; both here at home and around the world. Now more than ever, explosives production is an extremely crucial component, while also being a major bottleneck, in the deployment and utilization of defense systems. Our client is leveraging decades of industry expertise to alleviate this concern and help the United States maintain its military excellence.

The Job

Our client is seeking a Lead Production Technician. This person will be a hands-on shift leader for a small group of explosives process technicians involved in the production of explosive materials.

Functions

• Lead, supervise, and mentor a team of Explosives Production Technicians; assign tasks, monitor performance, and provide hands-on training and guidance.
• Oversee daily production operations, including synthesis, mixing, drying, granulating, pressing, extrusion, and packaging of energetic materials.
• Monitor manufacturing processes using remote systems, sensors, cameras, and process control equipment; quickly identify and resolve abnormal conditions to maintain safety and product quality.
• Perform and verify complex processing and handling of dry and wet explosives, including weighing, measuring, transporting, and assembling explosive components.
• Conduct in-process quality checks, calibrations (e.g., scales, moisture balances, pH meters), and final inspections; ensure all work meets technical specifications and regulatory standards.
• Enforce all explosives safety protocols, including quantity-distance (Q-D) rules, static control, grounding, PPE usage, and hazard classification requirements.
• Lead safety audits, incident investigations, emergency drills, and continuous improvement initiatives; promote a strong safety-first culture.
• Document production records, batch data, material usage, deviations, and inventory; prepare reports for management and regulatory compliance.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues; coordinate maintenance and repairs while minimizing downtime in explosive areas.
• Assist with material receiving, storage, shipping, and inventory management under regulated conditions.
• Participate in or lead process optimization, new product introductions, and training programs for explosives handling.
• Act as a point of contact for shift handovers, production meetings, and coordination with engineering, quality, and safety teams.

Qualifications

• Education : High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical certification in chemistry, process technology, manufacturing, energetic materials, or a related field strongly preferred.
• Experience : 4-8+ years of progressive experience in explosives/energetics manufacturing or hazardous materials processing. Prior lead, supervisory, or mentoring experience is highly desired. Military (e.g., EOD, ordnance) or defense contractor background is a significant advantage.
• Certifications :
• ATF Explosives Handler/User Permit eligibility (or ability to obtain); thorough background check and fingerprinting required.
• Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) certification.
• OSHA safety training (e.g., 30-hour) and explosives-specific safety courses.
• Any relevant supervisory or leadership training is a plus.
• Technical Skills :
• Expert knowledge of explosives safety principles, compatibility groups, hazard classifications, and regulatory compliance (ATF, DOT, etc.).
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting manufacturing procedures, batch records, technical drawings, and process control systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and experience with production equipment (mixers, dryers, presses, etc.).
• Ability to use analytical tools and basic computer systems for documentation and monitoring.
• Leadership & Other Skills :
• Proven ability to lead teams in high-risk environments with a focus on accountability and safety.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to zero-tolerance for safety shortcuts.

Physical and Other Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and work in controlled environments (including potential exposure to hazardous chemicals and noise).
• Excellent eyesight, color vision, and manual dexterity for precise work.
• Must successfully pass rigorous background checks, drug screening, medical evaluations, and possibly security clearances (U.S. citizenship often required for defense-related roles).
• Willingness to work shifts, overtime, or on-call as needed for production campaigns.