Energetic Materials Processing Technician - Pressing Operations

UDRI is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Energetic Materials Processing Specialist to support Pressing Operations at the High Explosive Research and Development (HERD) Facility located within the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Air Warfare Directorate at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

This role plays an important operational and technical part in supporting the Department of the Air Force’s cutting‑edge Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) programs. The specialist will execute advanced pressing and consolidation operations for energetic materials and components using precision electro‑mechanical and servo‑hydraulic pressing systems. The candidate will work closely alongside research scientists, test engineers, and other technical specialists to advance the Air Warfare Directorate’s objectives and capabilities.

Pressing Operations:
Set up, operate, and control precision electro‑mechanical and servo‑hydraulic pressing systems to consolidate energetic materials with tight tolerances and specifications.

Process Optimization:
Monitor and control pressing variables (e.g., dwell time, compaction force, displacement rates, temperature profiles) to achieve targeted material densities and structural properties.

Equipment Management:
Maintain, inspect, and clean precision pressing systems, specialized die sets, pressing fixtures, and safety systems.

Metrology:
Inspect consolidated energetic samples utilizing precision balances, calipers, micrometers, and optical systems.

Density Measurements:
Determine sample density and porosity via gas/air pycnometry, geometric calculations, and immersion density methods.

Quality Assurance:
Ensure all energetic material samples adhere to engineering drawings, technical specifications, and safety tolerances.

Data Collection:
Accurately record, track, and archive process parameters, metrology data, and operational logs with attention to detail.

Technical Communication:
Effectively communicate results, observations, and opportunities for improvement to research engineers and program managers.

Explosive Safety Compliance:
Enforce and comply with all DoW, USAF, and AFRL safety standards, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and explosive safety guidelines.

Materials Accountability:
Maintain strict inventory control, documentation, and safe storage protocols for all energetic materials.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
Perform scheduled maintenance, diagnostics, and minor repairs on hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic systems associated with pressing and laboratory equipment.

• Associate Degree in Engineering Technology, Mechanical Technology, Materials Science, or a related technical field plus one (1) year of experience in a hands‑on technical role. Work experience with energetic materials is preferable but not required. OR High School Diploma / GED plus a minimum of three (3) years of experience working in a laboratory or test environment with explosives, propellants, or other energetic materials.
  
  Other closely related work experience may be considered.
• Competency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) for work planning, technical communication, and data archival.
• Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen.
• Ability to obtain/maintain U.S. DoD SECRET security clearance.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering Technology, or closely related…