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Ballistic Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Manufacturing SME

Mclean, VA · On-site

$139K - $251K/yr

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

To help defend our nation, deployed forces, and allies from ballistic missile attacks, the ... Data engineering using expert knowledge of physics, signal processing, and the latest data ...

Systems Engineer Senior

Littleton, CO · Hybrid

$89K - $157K/yr

For over 60 years, the Fleet Ballistic Missile (FBM) team has supported the Navy's mission to ... expert objective evidence creation and documentation. • Organize/coordinate system level ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production. * Deliver training and teach ...

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Ballistic Expert information

What is the difference between Ballistic Expert vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectBallistic ExpertForensic Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires firearms and ballistics certifications, forensic trainingRequires degrees in forensic science, chemistry, or biology, with certification options
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, shooting ranges, courtroomsCrime labs, laboratories, crime scenes
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, criminal investigationsLaw enforcement, criminal justice, research
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding firearms and ballistics analysisBroader forensic analysis including biological and chemical evidence

While both roles work within forensic science, a Ballistic Expert specializes in firearms and ballistics analysis, often focusing on firearm evidence in criminal cases. A Forensic Scientist has a broader scope, analyzing various types of evidence such as biological, chemical, and physical samples. The two roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in their specific focus areas and case types.

What are Ballistic Experts?

Ballistic experts are forensic scientists who specialize in the study of firearms, ammunition, and the effects of projectiles. They analyze evidence from crime scenes, such as bullets and shell casings, to determine the type of weapon used and to link evidence to specific firearms. Their expertise is crucial in solving crimes involving guns, as they can help reconstruct shooting incidents and provide expert testimony in court. Ballistic experts often work closely with law enforcement agencies and other forensic specialists.

How does a Ballistic Expert typically collaborate with law enforcement and forensic teams during an investigation?

Ballistic Experts often work closely with law enforcement officers, detectives, and other forensic specialists to analyze firearms evidence from crime scenes. They may be called upon to examine bullets, cartridge cases, and firearms to determine their origin or whether a particular weapon was used in a crime. This role requires clear communication and detailed reporting, as findings must be presented to both investigative teams and, at times, in court as expert testimony. Collaboration is essential to ensure that all evidence is accurately documented and interpreted to support ongoing investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ballistic Expert, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ballistic Expert, you need a solid background in forensic science, physics, and criminalistics, often supported by a degree in forensic science or a related field. Familiarity with ballistic analysis tools, firearms identification systems, and laboratory procedures is essential, and certifications from organizations like the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are critical soft skills for accurately interpreting evidence and presenting findings in legal settings. These competencies ensure precise investigations, credible testimony, and the integrity of forensic outcomes in criminal cases.
What cities are hiring for Ballistic Expert jobs? Cities with the most Ballistic Expert job openings:
What states have the most Ballistic Expert jobs? States with the most job openings for Ballistic Expert jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ballistic Expert job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Locum Tenens, and 83% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Aerospace Manufacturing SME

Aerospace Manufacturing SME

Leidos

Mclean, VA • On-site

$139K - $251K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Leidos has an exciting opening for a Senior Aerospace Manufacturing Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a customer on-site in Northern Virginia. This position is part of a highly skilled team of SMEs providing analytic expertise in launch vehicle and missile systems, satellite technology, and C4ISR.
The ideal candidate will bring extensive industrial experience in the design, manufacturing, and testing of aerospace systems, including aircraft, spacecraft, launch vehicles, and missiles. This role requires both deep technical knowledge and the ability to advise, mentor, and engage with senior government stakeholders.
Primary Responsibilities
The Senior Aerospace Manufacturing SME will:
  • Demonstrate proficiency in aerospace manufacturing methods, materials, and tooling, with specific expertise in ballistic missile production.
  • Collaborate effectively in team environments while maintaining the ability to operate independently with minimal supervision.
  • Provide expert advice and support to government customers on materials, equipment, and infrastructure related to ballistic missile proliferation and production.
  • Deliver training and teach specialized courses on Missile Materials and Machine Tools.
  • Apply hands-on experience with missile and/or rocket engine manufacturing methods, tooling, procedures, and testing.
  • Mentor junior colleagues, fostering their technical and professional growth.
  • Maintain the ability to travel as needed; a valid U.S. passport is required.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, aerospace, or a related field and 15+ years of professional experience in aerospace manufacturing, 13+ years experience required with a Mater's Degree.
  • At least a secret clearance and possess the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance with Full-Scope Polygraph.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in engineering, physics, or related technical discipline.
  • 15-20 years of direct experience in aerospace or missile manufacturing.
  • Familiarity with foreign ballistic missile systems.
  • Experience with U.S. military aerospace systems.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
September 8, 2025
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $139,100.00 - $251,450.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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