Air Force AFSC · Engineering
3E8X1 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)
Overview
Explosive Ordnance Disposal members locate, identify, recover, disarm, and dispose of dangerous weapons and explosive materials. They work alone or in teams and use specialized tools and vehicles to protect people, property, and natural environments.
Minimum clearance: Secret at entry, Top Secret to maintain
Skill levels: 3E811 helper · 3E831 apprentice · 3E851 journeyman · 3E871 craftsman
Core Skills
- technical diagnostics
- remote sensing interpretation
- robotics operation
- risk assessment and mitigation
- technical report writing
- checklist and procedure compliance
- incident response coordination
- equipment maintenance and calibration
- situational awareness
- team communication under stress
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Bentley MicroStation
- C
Civilian Career Paths
- Emergency Management
- Project Management
- Private Security
Training & Development
Getting Started
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
- Associate Safety Professional (ASP)
- Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP)
Career Growth
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
- Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)
- ATF Federal Explosives License (FEL)
What the Work Involves
- Make repairs to robots or peripheral equipment, such as replacement of defective circuit boards, sensors, controllers, encoders, or servomotors.
- Troubleshoot robotic systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, mechanics, sensor or feedback systems, hydraulics, or pneumatics.
- Maintain service records of robotic equipment or automated production systems.
- Install, program, or repair programmable controllers, robot controllers, end-of-arm tools, or conveyors.
- Modify computer-controlled robot movements.
Related Occupations
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 3E8X1. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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