Overview

Explosive ordnance disposal specialist Soldiers are the Army’s preeminent tactical and technical explosives experts. They are warriors who are properly trained, equipped and integrated to attack, defeat and exploit unexploded ordnance, improvised explosive devices and weapons of mass destruction.

Explosive ordnance disposal specialists are the culmination of the best tactical and technical training the Army and civilian academia can provide. They are prepared to perform missions in support of Army units worldwide, across all operational environments.

Job Duties

• Research and identify ordnance
  
• Assist in the preparation and use of advance robotics
• Explosively disposing of hazardous ordnance
• Prepare and maintain tools, equipment and vehicles

Requirements

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Training

Job training for an explosive ordnance disposal specialist requires 10 weeks Basic Combat Training and 39 weeks of Advanced Individual training at Fort Lee, VA.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Basic electronics/electricity fundamentals
• Hazards and identification of United States and foreign munitions
• Demolition materials, procedures and operations
• Chemical and biological ordnance and operations
  

Helpful Skills

• Interest in algebra, chemistry, physics, geometry and trigonometry
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Aptitude for planning and organizing
• Work calmly under stress
• Effectively use computers

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with government agencies, civil law enforcement and private industries performing ordnance research and development. You might also consider a future as a bomb-disposal expert, gunsmith or munitions handler.