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Full Time Ballistics Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ideal Innovations

Firearms Examiner

Dulles, VA · On-site

As a Firearms Examiner, you will serve as a subject matter expert whose findings may be used in ... A typical day may involve examining firearms and ballistic evidence, conducting microscopic ...

Anne Arundel County, MD

Firearms Examiner

MD · On-site

$70K - $137K/yr

Anne Arundel County, MD Job Type: Full-Time Permanent Job Number: 08496RR Department: Police ... The position serves as a court qualified expert witness in the field of firearms and toolmark ...

Anne Arundel County

Firearms Examiner

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$70K - $137K/yr

This posting will be used to fill a Fulltime, Permanent, Safety Sensitive Firearms Examiner ... The position serves as a court qualified expert witness in the field of firearms and toolmark ...

Gentex Corp.

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description PURPOSE: The Optical Physicist is a subject matter expert ... ballistic protection, variable light transmission, laser eye protection, and visual display ...

BAE Systems

Program Mgr II

UT · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Integration Support Contract (ISC). Detailed The Sentinel ICBM weapon ... This position is a full-time 5/40 role located at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, due to special-access ...

BAE Systems

Program Mgr II

UT · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Integration Support Contract (ISC). Detailed The Sentinel ICBM weapon ... Duties will include being the subject matter expert in all things Sentinel test as you provide ...

BCI Inc

Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA

... to fill full-time mid-level Systems Engineer / Navy Subject Matter Expert (SME) positions in ... Ballistic Missile Defense (ABMD), Ship Self Defense System (SSDS), Integrated Air and Missile ...

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Full Time Ballistics Expert information

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How much do full time ballistics expert jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time ballistics expert in the United States is $121,377.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time ballistics expert?

Full time ballistics experts are forensic scientists who specialize in analyzing firearms, ammunition, and the effects of projectiles. They work closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate crimes involving guns by examining bullets, cartridge cases, gunpowder patterns, and firearm mechanisms. Their work helps determine how and when a weapon was used, identify the type of firearm, and sometimes link a specific gun to a crime scene. Ballistics experts often testify in court as expert witnesses and play a crucial role in solving criminal cases involving firearms.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a full time ballistics expert?

To thrive as a Full Time Ballistics Expert, a solid background in forensic science, physics, and criminal justice—often with a relevant degree and specialized training—is essential. Expertise with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and firearms identification systems, along with certifications such as AFTE (Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners), is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting evidence and presenting findings in court. These capabilities ensure accurate evidence analysis, support criminal investigations, and uphold the integrity of the justice system.

What are common challenges a full time ballistics expert might face when working with law enforcement agencies?

A Full Time Ballistics Expert often encounters challenges such as managing large caseloads with tight deadlines, ensuring the integrity and chain of custody for evidence, and staying current with evolving forensic technologies. Coordination with law enforcement agencies can sometimes be demanding, especially when cases require testimony in court or collaboration across jurisdictions. Additionally, experts must maintain high attention to detail and accuracy under pressure, as their analyses can be critical to the outcome of criminal investigations.

What is the difference between Full Time Ballistics Expert vs Part Time Ballistics Analyst?

AspectFull Time Ballistics ExpertPart Time Ballistics Analyst
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in ballisticsSimilar credentials, often part-time or ongoing education
Work EnvironmentFull-time forensic labs, crime scenes, courtroomsPart-time lab work, case reviews, consulting
Industry UsageWidely employed in law enforcement and forensic agenciesConsultants or adjuncts, less common in agencies

Full Time Ballistics Experts typically work full-time in forensic labs or law enforcement agencies, handling investigations and court testimonies. Part Time Ballistics Analysts may work on specific cases or consulting projects, often with flexible hours. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in hours and scope of responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ballistics Expert jobs?

The most popular types of Ballistics Expert jobs are:

Full Time Ballistics Expert jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Ballistics Expert job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 2% Temporary, 27% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $121,377 per year, or $58.4 per hour.

Firearms Examiner

Ideal Innovations

Dulles, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Highlights:
  • Conduct complex firearms and toolmark examinations that directly support federal criminal investigations and the pursuit of justice.
  • As a Firearms Examiner, you will serve as a subject matter expert whose findings may be used in criminal prosecutions and court proceedings.
  • Work alongside experienced forensic professionals supporting the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) mission.
  • Work in a fully operational, accredited forensic laboratory utilizing industry-standard methodologies and advanced examination equipment.
  • Utilize specialized forensic equipment, including comparison microscopes, stereomicroscopes, forensic imaging systems, and ballistic identification databases.
  • Analyze a wide variety of evidence, including firearms, fired bullets, cartridge cases, toolmarks, gunshot-related evidence, and serial number restorations.
  • Contribute investigative leads through the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
  • Gain exposure to multiple forensic disciplines and collaborate with laboratory personnel, investigators, prosecutors, and law enforcement partners.
  • Develop expertise in firearms identification, toolmark examinations, serial number restoration, and related forensic disciplines.
  • Be part of a company that offers numerous forensic science opportunities, professional development, and career growth.

Typical Day:
A typical day may involve examining firearms and ballistic evidence, conducting microscopic comparisons of bullets and cartridge cases, restoring obliterated serial numbers, entering and reviewing evidence, preparing forensic reports, and documenting findings that may ultimately be presented as expert testimony. Every case presents unique challenges and opportunities to apply scientific analysis in support of public safety and the administration of justice.
Tasks:
  • Receive, inventory, document, and maintain chain-of-custody for firearms-related evidence.
  • Examine and analyze firearms, fired bullets, cartridge cases, toolmarks, and other physical evidence using validated forensic techniques.
  • Conduct microscopic comparative examinations to identify or eliminate firearms as the source of evidentiary items.
  • Test firearms for functionality, operability, and safety.
  • Perform serial number restoration examinations on firearms and other evidence.
  • Conduct firearms and toolmark identification examinations in accordance with laboratory policies, procedures, and accreditation standards.
  • Utilize forensic imaging systems and specialized laboratory equipment to document examinations and findings.
  • Enter and analyze ballistic evidence utilizing forensic databases.
  • Prepare detailed technical notes, examination documentation, and forensic laboratory reports.
  • Provide expert testimony regarding forensic examinations and conclusions when required.
  • Maintain compliance with quality assurance requirements, accreditation standards, and laboratory procedures.
  • Assist with casework management and efforts to reduce laboratory backlogs.

Required Qualifications:
  • At least one (1) year of laboratory experience as a firearms examiner
  • Ability to obtain and maintain the required USPIS security clearance.
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully complete training, examinations, and competency assessments.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree; preferably in a scientific discipline with at least twenty-four (24) credit hours in the Physical Sciences
  • Experience conducting firearms and toolmark examinations.
  • Knowledge of firearms identification principles and microscopic comparison techniques.
  • Familiarity with serial number restoration methodologies and ballistic evidence examination.
  • Experience preparing forensic reports or providing courtroom testimony.
  • Knowledge of laboratory accreditation standards and quality assurance practices.

Shift Information:
  • Full-Time
  • Day Shift (normal working hours falling between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.)

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required.
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a USPIS security clearance required.
Location: Dulles, VA
Ideal Innovations, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.
Ideal Innovations, Inc. is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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