Explosives Scientist

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

ERG is seeking experienced explosives scientists to provide full-time safety-review related support. This team is supporting growing energetics manufacturing and research and development groups. The position will be hybrid at a federal site in Indian Head, Maryland, in the Washington, DC metro area. Indian Head is approximately 30 miles from Washington, DC, 25 miles from Alexandria, VA, and 60 miles from Fredericksburg, VA. Alternative work schedules may be considered.

Job Description:

• Prepare standard operating procedures, safety documentation, and technical reports; review laboratory processes for elimination of hazards
• Perform basic calculations that support process chemistry, equipment configuration, and process condition establishment decisions
• Participate in hazard analyses of research and development and manufacturing operations
• Provide consultation for mixing, small-scale safety testing, thermal analyses, physical characterization, and explosive output characterization
• Aid in energetic material characterization efforts designed to understand small-scale explosive hazards
• Share knowledge of procedures related to hazardous and non-hazardous waste generation as well as waste disposal
• Support mishap or incident investigations; receive, examine, and analyze evidence; interpret results; write reports; technically or administratively review reports; potentially testify to findings concerning casework

Qualifications and Skills:

• Minimum of bachelor’s degree in chemistry, a natural or applied science. This may include criminalistics or forensic science. Recommended coursework in general chemistry, organic chemistry, and explosives analysis
• A minimum of 3 years of experience (explosives operations preferred)
• An ideal candidate would have knowledge and/or experience with industrial chemical and mixing formulation for explosives ingredients, safe handling of energetics, and sensitivity testing (i.e., electrostatic discharge, friction, thermal stability)
• Strong writing and communication skills; exhibit knowledge of the theories, procedures, and analytical techniques necessary to produce reliable reviews, consultations, and conclusions
• Competence in using spreadsheet and database software to compile, analyze, and present data
• Strong time management skills and the ability to work on multiple projects
• Ability to work independently with limited technical guidance and oversight
• Must currently hold or be able to obtain a Department of Defense Secret-level security clearance; Must be a U.S. citizen as this position is not eligible for Limited Access Authorizations 

ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience.

ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC and affirmative action regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. As such, successful candidates must be committed to working with diverse and inclusive teams.

Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com. ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment.

If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at [email protected] or call (781) 674-7293.

As ERG is a friendly, flexible, inclusive environment and has clients who are committed to making the world a better place, ERGers are incredibly dedicated. We promote and recognize principles of fairness, equity, and social justice in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.