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Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Specialist

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Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Specialist - 74D


  • Active/Reserve:Both
  • Officer/Enlisted:Enlisted
  • Restrictions:None

Overview

Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Specialists are primarily responsible for defending the country against the threat of CBRN weapons and Weapons of Mass Destruction.

Job Duties

  • Assist in the establishment of CBRN defense measures
  • Provide training advice and supervision regarding CBRN equipment and operations
  • Train military and civilian personnel on CBRN response operations
  • Operate and maintain CBRN detection and decontamination equipment
  • Serve on Biological Integrated Detection Teams, STRYKER NBC Reconnaissance Platoons, Technical Escort Battalions, Special Forces and Ranger Units

    • Requirements

  • Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Forces 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 a CBRN specialist requires 10 weeks of basic training, where you learn basic soldiering skills, and 11 weeks of Advanced Individual Training and on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and in the field.Some of the skills you'll learn are:

  • Operation of CBRN Decontamination, Defense, Detection and Monitoring Equipment
  • Preparation for CBRN defense Actions/Procedures
  • Wear and use of protective equipment
  • Hazardous Material Certification (at the awareness level)
  • Exposure to toxic agents while wearing CBRN protective equipment

    • Helpful Skills

  • Communicate effectively
  • Interest in algebra, chemistry, physics, geometry and trigonometry
  • Ability to plan and organize
  • Work calmly under tremendous stress
  • * If you have taken the ASVAB prior to 1 October 2013, you must have a minimum score of 91 in the ST aptitude area.

    • ASVAB

    The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is an examination that is administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command. It is used to determine qualification and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.

  • Skilled Technical (ST) : 100

    • Compensation

  • Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time.

    • See the whole list of Army Occupational Specialties here

    To learn more about the Army's rank structure, see our complete list of Army ranks.
    To see a list of military medals and decorations that can be earned by servicemembers in the Army and other branches of the military, see our list of military decorations and medals.