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Ballistic Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quality Technician I, Ballistics 2nd Shift SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, air guns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations ...

Ballistics Quality Technician I

Jacksonville, AR · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Quality Technician I, Ballistics 2nd Shift SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, air guns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations ...

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Ballistic Technician information

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$27K

$40.2K

$56.5K

How much do ballistic technician jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for ballistic technician in the United States is $40,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ballistic Technician vs Firearms Technician?

AspectBallistic TechnicianFirearms Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forensic science, ballistics, or related field; certifications in forensic analysis are commonOften requires a high school diploma or GED; certifications in gunsmithing or firearm repair are advantageous
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes, forensic labs, law enforcement agenciesGun shops, manufacturing facilities, repair shops, law enforcement agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in forensic and law enforcement contexts for ballistic analysisUsed in firearm repair, manufacturing, and law enforcement for firearm maintenance and troubleshooting

While both roles involve firearms, a Ballistic Technician focuses on forensic analysis of ballistic evidence, whereas a Firearms Technician specializes in repairing and maintaining firearms. The former is more research and analysis-oriented, often working in labs, while the latter is hands-on with firearms in repair shops or manufacturing settings.

What is a ballistic technician?

Ballistic Technicians are specialized professionals who work with firearms, ammunition, and explosives to test, analyze, and improve their performance and safety. They often conduct experiments, gather data from test firings, and assist in the development and quality control of ballistic products. Ballistic Technicians may work for ammunition manufacturers, defense contractors, forensic labs, or government agencies, and their work is critical for ensuring that weapons and ammunition perform as intended. They also help investigate failures or malfunctions and may be involved in forensic analysis for law enforcement purposes.

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

To thrive as a Ballistic Technician, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and materials science, often supported by an associate degree or higher in a related field. Familiarity with ballistic testing equipment, data acquisition systems, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications in firearms safety or explosives handling may be required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting test results and collaborating with engineers. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure accurate testing, maintain safety standards, and support the development and evaluation of ballistic products.

How much does a ballistic technician make?

A ballistic technician typically earns between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. The role often requires knowledge of firearms, ballistic testing procedures, and specialized equipment, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

How do you get a job in ballistic technology?

To become a ballistic technician, candidates typically need a background in engineering, physics, or a related field, along with experience in materials testing or ballistics analysis. Relevant skills include knowledge of firearms, ammunition, and testing equipment, and obtaining certifications such as those from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) can improve job prospects.

What are some typical challenges a ballistic technician faces during ballistic testing, and how can they be addressed?

Ballistic Technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols, ensuring the accuracy of test setups, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions during live-fire testing. These challenges can be addressed by following detailed standard operating procedures, conducting regular equipment maintenance, and collaborating closely with engineers and other technicians. Staying organized and communicating clearly with the team are also essential for effective problem-solving and maintaining a safe testing environment.
More about Ballistic Technician jobs
What states have the most Ballistic Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Ballistic Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ballistic Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ballistic Technician jobs are:
Infographic showing various Ballistic Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,199 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

$20 - $25/hr

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This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Element Materials Technology rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Ballistics Technician
Job Locations US-KS-Wichita
ID 2026-19667
Overview

Element has an opportunity for a Ballistics technician to join our rapidly expanding team. As a member of the operations team, the Test Technician position performs a variety of routine and non-routine testing assignments within the department assigned and insures timely and accurate test results under direct supervision. The technician positions must be proficient in a number of core business skills including but not limited to compliance to established safety rules, code of conduct, and company policies and procedures.

Salary: $20- $25/hr. DOE

Responsibilities
    Conduct ballistic testing in accordance with NIJ 06 standards and other applicable specifications.
  • Prepare and set up test materials, including ballistic gelatin, armor panels, and firearms.
  • Operate and maintain ballistic test equipment, including chronographs, high-speed cameras, and data acquisition systems.
  • Document and analyze test results, ensuring accuracy and compliance with standards.
  • Perform regular maintenance and calibration of testing equipment.
  • Ensure all testing activities follow safety protocols and laboratory procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with engineers and quality assurance teams to interpret results and support product development.
  • Maintain detailed records and generate test reports for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Assist in troubleshooting test failures and identifying potential improvements in test processes.
Skills / Qualifications
  • Excellent attention to detail and commitment to precision in testing procedures.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong commitment to safety protocols and adherence to testing standards.
  • Physical ability to lift test materials and operate equipment safely.
Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

"If you need an accommodation filling out an application, or applying to a job, please email Recruitment@element.com"


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