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Apprentice Firearm Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Firearm Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice firearm engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice firearm engineer in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Firearm Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Firearm Engineer, you need a solid grounding in mechanical engineering principles, precision machining, and a relevant qualification such as a vocational diploma or apprenticeship certificate. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machinery, and industry safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, accurate, and efficient development and maintenance of firearms to meet both regulatory and functional standards.

What is the difference between Apprentice Firearm Engineer vs Firearm Technician?

AspectApprentice Firearm EngineerFirearm Technician
CertificationsBasic firearm safety and engineering courses, apprenticeship programsTechnical certifications in firearm repair and maintenance
Work EnvironmentTraining settings, manufacturing plants, workshopsGun shops, manufacturing facilities, repair centers
Job FocusLearning firearm design, assembly, and engineering principlesRepair, maintenance, and troubleshooting firearms

Apprentice Firearm Engineers are in training to understand firearm design and engineering, often working under supervision. Firearm Technicians focus on repairing and maintaining firearms, requiring technical certifications. While both roles work in firearm-related environments, apprentices are in learning phases, whereas technicians are more experienced in hands-on repair tasks.

What are Apprentice Firearm Engineers?

Apprentice Firearm Engineers are individuals who are training to become skilled professionals in the design, manufacture, maintenance, and repair of firearms. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers or gunsmiths to learn technical skills such as machining, assembly, and safety procedures. The apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with classroom instruction to provide a comprehensive understanding of firearm engineering. Upon completion, apprentices are often qualified to work in the firearms industry or pursue further certification.

What are some typical challenges faced by an Apprentice Firearm Engineer during the training period?

As an Apprentice Firearm Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as mastering precise machining and assembly techniques, adhering to strict safety protocols, and understanding complex mechanical systems. Adapting to the high standards required in the firearms industry, including rigorous quality control and regulatory compliance, is also common. You'll frequently collaborate with experienced engineers and technicians, requiring strong communication and a willingness to learn. Overcoming these challenges will help build a solid foundation for advancement in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firearm Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Firearm Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Firearm Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Apprentice Firearm Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Firearm Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Firearm Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Toolmaker/Precision Machinist

Toolmaker/Precision Machinist

Chemring Energetic Devices, Inc

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$30.50 - $39.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description:

As Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) celebrates 50 years of building products that protect our country, protect the individual warfighter, and send rockets into outer space, our growth is creating new opportunities to expand our team with talented individuals who want to shape the next era of mission-critical innovation.


CED is well situated in Downers Grove, Illinois - we are located a commuter train ride West of Chicago and a short drive from farmland.


CED's current salary range for this role is $30.50-39.50 / hour. At CED, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions may vary based upon, but not limited to education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift, location and geography. In addition to base salary, the total compensation package may also include participation in a bonus, commission or incentive program. CED’s benefit offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus parental leave, adoption assistance, tuition assistance and employer/partner discounts.


JOB SUMMARY:

The Toolmaker/Precision Machinist is responsible for providing innovative tooling and manufacturing solutions for the various departments at CED.

Requirements:

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Interpret and machine parts from engineering (CAD) drawings, hand sketches, and verbal instructions.
  • Collaborate with team members and stakeholders on prototyping and design changes.
  • Check work using precision measuring tools & equipment e.g. micrometer, dial indicator, bore gages, thread gages, gage blocks, height gages, optical comparator.
  • Manual machining of parts e.g. toolroom lathe, milling machine, drill press, saws, pedestal grinder.
  • Surface grinding with the ability to dress angles and radii on wheels.
  • Surface grinding of tungsten carbide and refractory materials.
  • Work with machine operators to supply sharpening/modification of production tooling using grinders or by hand.
  • Program, set up, & run CNC vertical machining center and CNC toolroom lathe for product development and short production runs.
  • Program, set up, & run CNC wire electrical discharge machine (WEDM) for product development and short production runs.
  • Program, set up, & run CNC Hole Drilling EDM (hole pop).
  • Perform punch press set-up and debug (small single station dies with low volume).
  • Grind, sharpen, modify, and repair punches & dies for small single-station punch press jobs.
  • Build & repair special jigs and fixtures with prints or verbal instructions.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Follow all company policies and procedures.
  • Other duties/responsibilities as assigned by leadership
  • Comply with government and corporate laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

N/A


EDUCATION:

  • Formal apprenticeship certificate or NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) certificate

EXPERIENCE:

  • 5 to 10 years in a manufacturing environment, machinist experience (aerospace/defense or prototype)

SKILLS and QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience and training in a variety of tool room machinery (manual lathes, manual mills, grinders, CNC machinery, and electrical discharge machines).
  • Working knowledge of GD&T
  • Must be eligible to possess explosive under the Safe Explosives Act of 2003 (as amended) as required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) for all employees of Chemring Energetic Devices.

PHYSICAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise moving objects weighing up to 25 - 40 pounds occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of weight frequently. Involves prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, and stretching.


DISCLAIMER

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and essential job functions of this position. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Employees will be expected to perform other job functions and duties as may be needed and/or required.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected characteristics.


The “Know Your Rights” Poster is available here: EEOC Know Your Rights

CED’s EEO Policy Statement is available here: CED EEO Policy Statement


If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to Human Resources at humanresources@ced.us.com or call 630-969-0620 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.