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Ballistics 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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Ballistics information

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$29.5K

$60.8K

$95.5K

How much do ballistics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for ballistics in the United States is $60,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ballistics expert?

Ballistics experts are specialists who study the behavior, effects, and movement of projectiles, such as bullets and missiles, especially in relation to firearms and crime scenes. Their main responsibilities include analyzing firearms, ammunition, and bullet trajectories to help law enforcement solve crimes. They often examine evidence from shooting incidents to determine the type of weapon used, the distance and angle of shots, and whether a particular firearm was involved. Ballistics experts may testify in court as expert witnesses, providing crucial information to support criminal investigations.

What is the difference between Ballistics vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectBallisticsForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsGun safety, firearm handling, sometimes certifications in ballistics analysisDegree in forensic science, chemistry, or biology; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, crime scenes, shooting rangesCrime labs, laboratories, crime scenes
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, military, forensic labsLaw enforcement, forensic labs, legal proceedings
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding firearm analysis, ballistic testingCrime scene investigation, evidence analysis

While both roles are involved in criminal investigations, Ballistics specialists focus specifically on firearm and projectile analysis, whereas Forensic Scientists have a broader scope, including analyzing various types of evidence. Ballistics is a specialized field within forensic science, often requiring specific firearm-related certifications, and typically involves working directly with firearms and ballistic evidence.

What are some common challenges faced by ballistics experts when working on crime scene investigations?

Ballistics experts often encounter challenges such as limited or degraded evidence, complex crime scenes, and the need to accurately match bullets or cartridge cases to specific firearms. Time constraints and the pressure to deliver reliable results for legal proceedings can add to the complexity. Collaboration with law enforcement, forensic teams, and legal professionals is essential to ensure thorough analysis, clear communication, and proper documentation of findings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ballistics expert?

To thrive as a Ballistics Expert, you need a solid background in forensic science, physics, and criminal justice, often supported by a relevant degree or specialized training. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, firearms identification systems, and ballistics databases such as NIBIN is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills for preparing reports and testifying in court. These competencies ensure precise analysis of ballistic evidence, support criminal investigations, and uphold the integrity of legal proceedings.
More about Ballistics jobs
What states have the most Ballistics jobs? States with the most job openings for Ballistics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ballistics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $60,843 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Engineering Technician Ballistics

Olin Corporation

Independence, MO • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Olin Corporation rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Title: Engineer Technician Ballistics
Location: Independence, MO
Salary: $67,800- $80,000
Schedule: Monday-Thursday | 2:00 PM - 12:30 AM (Evening Shift)
Focus: The Engineering Technician Ballistics supports the design, testing, and analysis of ballistics-related projects. These may include weapons systems, ammunition, protective materials, and related equipment. The technician works closely with engineers and researchers, performing hands-on testing and data collection to ensure safety, accuracy, and efficiency in ballistic technology applications.
Engineer Technician Ballistics Essential Job Functions:
  • Support the Quality team by performing ballistic testing.
  • Perform range maintenance, upkeep, and cleaning duties.
  • Make Ballistic Gel for testing.
  • Recommend improvements, assist in the implementation of those recommendations and escalate issues to leadership as needed.

Engineer Technician Ballistics Minimum Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must meet (1) one of the following requirements:
    • Three years full time mechanical experience; OR
    • Relevant military/law enforcement experience applicable to ballistics.
  • Basic firearm knowledge and reloading/handloading of ammunition experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of ammunition test setups and procedures preferred.
  • Advanced mechanical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to read and understand military specifications concerning the testing of small-caliber ammunition.

Location-Specific Requirements:
  • Ability to obtain Department of Defense secret clearance and government explosives driver's license.
  • Must have a valid US Driver's License.
  • This position requires access to ITAR controlled technical data, and as such, employment will be contingent upon the candidate's ability to access ITAR controlled technical data pursuant to an export license approved by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls if required.
  • This position requires successful vetting as an Employee Possessor in accordance with U.S. Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
  • This position requires successful vetting for unescorted access in accordance with U.S. Army and Department of Defense access policies.

Strong Careers Grow Here
Olin fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace, where you are encouraged to join or lead our Olin People Networks. These voluntary groups connect employees across sites, divisions and functions to strengthen connections, belonging, and community involvement.
Rooted in our corporate values, Olin continues to be the global leader in both ammunition and chemical manufacturing. We invest, recognize, and reward the talents and contributions of our employees, empowering over 8,000 global individuals to make an impact both at work and in surrounding communities.
View a snapshot of our comprehensive benefits package.
Olin does not provide any form of sponsorship. We will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J or TN or who need sponsorship now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.
Olin is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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