In today’s post, we are going to learn about the Army 740A Warrant Officer, the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Technician. For those who have scientific minds, and love all things dealing with chemicals, nuclear properties, and biological technology, this position just may be your place in today’s Army.
In this article, we will take a look at duties, responsibilities, a job description, prerequisites, and career opportunities for anyone in the 740A Warrant Officer position.
Duties, Responsibilities and Job Description
The 740A Warrant Officer provides expert technical advice in CBRN defenses
The 740A Warrant Officer plans and directs training and operations in:
Civil authority defense support.
Identifying hazardous materials which includes all toxic materials and chemicals from industrial usage
Weapons of mass destruction combat using nonproliferation and counter-proliferation
Protection of CBRN forces
Decontamination of CBRN forces and civilians
CBRN reconnaissance
Sensitive area assessment
Much more….
The 740A provides expert advice in joint agency(JIIM) preparation and defense on matters of CBRN protocol
Provides multiple commanders expert advice on all matters of CBRN operations and hazards
Evaluates CBRN effective defenses and training
Prepares planning of all training, supplies and maintenance of CBRN units
Prerequisites and Qualifications
Must be an E6 SSG or higher
At least 5 years experience in a 74D MOS
Either 1 year of squad leader in a CBRN unit, or 1 year as a CBRN NCO
Must be HAZMAT certified
Last 10 years of NCOERS and AERS showing a high percentage of outstanding performance
Must meet all physical requirements and be fully deployable
Have a Company Commander letter of recommendation and a Battalion Commander letter of recommendation
2 years of supervisor experience
Have an Associates degree from a recognized University or College with a major in math, science, or engineering
Career Opportunities
The Army and the United States need people willing to fill these very important positions. More than likely, if you are accepted as a 740A Warrant Officer, commanders will not want you to retire or leave the Army. More than likely, you will retire from the Army after many years keeping us safe from any CBRN issues. While you are in the Army, you could serve as an instructor, advisor, staff officer, OIC, or a variety of other duty positions.
When you leave the Army, there are a plethora of opportunities awaiting you in corporations and government agencies. Having all these skills relating to chemical, biological and nuclear materials can land you a very high paying position in a scientific corporation. Or you may help with the design and operations of new nuclear facilities. Civilian career possibilities are endless when it comes to serving in the 740A Warrant Officer position.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 740A Warrant Officer, the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Technician has a vitally important job in today’s Army. When it comes to any (CBRN) issues they are the subject matter experts who advise commanders on the battlefield, and protect our Soldiers (and citizens).
We all know that both nuclear and biological warfare have become the main issue across the world. It is the men and women who are willing to take on positions such as the 740A that are keeping us safe from attacks of this nature.
I would really love to hear from someone who is, or has been a 740A Warrant Officer. Please tell us about the position and anything you can add for someone who would like to become a 740A Warrant Officer. If you desire to enter the CBRN field in the United States Army, please explain why.
For anyone who has been a 740A or wants to become one, thank you for your expertise in the protection of America.

Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major (resigned)
Publisher, Part-Time-Commander.com
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
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