A bomb technician is an officer in the military who specializes in rendering safe explosives. They are also commonly referred to as an ‘explosive technician' or ‘explosive specialist.'
Responsibilities
The bomb technician's responsibilities differ according to his training and experience. It also depends on the agency he is working for. In the United States, the job of a bomb technician is to evaluate explosives and to safely dismantle explosive devices. They also ensure the safety of the public through the communication of necessary instructions. This is performed in military agencies abroad, in settings both combat and non-combat. Military agencies also provide the necessary support in domestic explosives.
Agencies
Bomb technicians are usually employed by a federal agency. For one example, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. They might also be employed by a state or local law enforcement agency. The key military bomb technician employer is the Navy's Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit.
Requirements
Most likely, a bomb technician is military or law enforcement personnel. They must be experienced in the field of explosives and have a history of good performance. In the case of military, top-secret security clearance is also necessary. Having a military career as a bomb technician you must also have prior training in special explosives, and be able to see all colors.
Dangers
Although many precautions are taken, such as the use of protective gear and robotics, bomb technicians often work in dangerous, high stress settings. They are very often in close physical contact with dangerous chemicals and explosives. This dangerous contact is required in military employment training as well; to prepare them for emergency situations they often face throughout their career.
Compensation: The salary of bomb technicians differs, depending upon experience, location, and the agency they work for. The average salary of a bomb squad member in 2008 was @ $75,490 (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The police detectives and supervisors that usually make up a bomb squad also receive additional pay depending on other duties they may perform in the explosives unit. The same goes for the military trained bomb technicians that perform additional duties.
A career as a bomb technician offers an excellent military employment salary and benefits.
