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Ballistics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

Senior Ballistics Analyst

Denver, CO · On-site

$107K - $134K/yr

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

Senior Ballistics Analyst

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$107 - $134/hr

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

New

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

$107 - $134/hr

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

Senior Ballistics Analyst

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$107K - $134K/yr

Perform ballistics analysis to meet programmatic requirements and inform/validate design * Develop, refine, and validate computational methods and tools to predict and analyze propellant performance ...

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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 28, 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 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.

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 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.

How do you get a job in ballistics?

To work in ballistics, candidates typically need a background in physics, engineering, or a related science field, often requiring a bachelor's degree or higher. Gaining experience through internships, specialized training, or certifications in firearms, forensic science, or related areas can improve job prospects; familiarity with testing equipment and safety protocols is also important.

What kind of careers use ballistics?

Ballistics is used in careers such as forensic scientists, firearms experts, defense analysts, and ammunition manufacturers. These roles often require knowledge of projectile behavior, access to specialized testing equipment, and relevant certifications or training in physics, engineering, or forensic science.
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.

Ballistics Technician

Wichita, KS


Element Materials Technology
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 120 rated laboratories

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

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"

Employment Type: OTHER


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