How much does bomb squad make?

How Much Does a Bomb Squad Make?

The bomb squad is a specialized team of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) professionals who deal with the safe disposal of explosives, ammunition, and other hazardous devices. These individuals are among the most highly trained and respected professionals in the military and law enforcement communities.

Salaries for EOD Technicians

EOD Technicians in Law Enforcement Agencies

In law enforcement agencies, EOD technicians are typically sworn police officers who have undergone specialized training in explosives disposal. Salaries for EOD technicians in law enforcement agencies can vary depending on the location, agency, and level of experience.

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for police and sheriff’s patrollers was $61,380 in May 2020.
• However, EOD technicians in urban areas or with specialized experience can earn significantly higher salaries, ranging from $90,000 to over $120,000 per year.
• For example:

  • The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) offers an hourly rate of $44.11 to $64.19 for EOD sergeants, with a bachelor’s degree and 8-12 years of experience.
  • The Houston Police Department (HPD) offers an hourly rate of $33.95 to $54.23 for EOD officers, with a bachelor’s degree and 4-10 years of experience.

EOD Technicians in the Military

In the military, EOD technicians are typically specialist or officer positions that require specialized training and experience.

• According to the Navy’s EOD Technician Program, EOD technicians serving as petty officers (junior enlisted) can earn a base pay of $2,000 – $4,000 per month, depending on their rank and time in service.
• EOD technicians serving as chief petty officers (senior enlisted) can earn a base pay of $4,000 – $6,000 per month, depending on their rank and time in service.
• Officers in the EOD community can earn a basic pay of $2,500 – $9,000 per month, depending on their rank and time in service.
• Bonuses and other forms of compensation can also be available for EOD technicians in the military.
• For example:

  • The Navy offers an EOD Technician Bonus Program, which provides an annual bonus of $35,000 – $80,000 for new recruits and $12,000 – $70,000 for continued service.
  • The Army offers an EOD Technician Bonus Program, which provides an annual bonus of $20,000 – $50,000 for new recruits and $10,000 – $40,000 for continued service.

Additional Forms of Compensation

In addition to salaries and bonuses, EOD technicians may also receive additional forms of compensation for their work, such as:

• Flight pay: For EOD technicians who are required to fly on military aircraft in support of their duties.
• Dive pay: For EOD technicians who are required to engage in diving operations as part of their duties.
• Hazardous Duty Pay: For EOD technicians who are exposed to hazardous conditions or situations, such as explosive ordnance disposal.
• Special Duty Pay: For EOD technicians who serve in specialized roles, such as instructors or team leaders.

Conclusion

How much does a bomb squad make? The answer to this question can vary significantly depending on the individual, their location, and the organization they work for. EOD technicians in law enforcement agencies can earn significantly higher salaries than those in the military, while the military offers a range of benefits and bonuses to their EOD technicians. However, all EOD technicians are highly trained and compensated professionals who play a crucial role in keeping our communities and countries safe.

Table: EOD Technician Salaries

Bullets: EOD Technician Compensations

• Flight pay
• Dive pay
• Hazardous Duty Pay
• Special Duty Pay
• Bonuses (e.g. EOD Technician Bonus Program)
• Additional allowances (e.g. special duty, hazardous duty)

Note: Salaries may vary depending on location, experience, and other factors.