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Missile Operations Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their ... Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine ...

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Missile Operations Officer information

See salary details

$31.5K

$77.3K

$136.5K

How much do missile operations officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for missile operations officer in the United States is $77,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Missile Operations Officers face during their shifts, and how are these typically addressed?

Missile Operations Officers often work long, irregular hours in highly secure environments, which can be both mentally and physically demanding. One common challenge is maintaining focus and readiness during extended alert shifts, as quick and accurate decision-making is critical. To address this, officers receive extensive training in stress management and teamwork, and units often promote a supportive culture to help manage shift fatigue. Regular drills and debriefs also help officers stay sharp and improve resilience under pressure.

What is the difference between Missile Operations Officer vs Missile Maintenance Technician?

AspectMissile Operations OfficerMissile Maintenance Technician
CredentialsSecurity clearance, military training, technical certificationsSecurity clearance, technical certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, command centers, operational settingsMaintenance facilities, missile sites, technical workshops
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense contractorsMilitary, defense contractors

Missile Operations Officers focus on planning, coordinating, and executing missile launch operations, requiring strategic and technical skills. Missile Maintenance Technicians handle the upkeep, repair, and troubleshooting of missile systems. Both roles require security clearances and work within military or defense environments, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Missile Operations Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Missile Operations Officer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and military science, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree and completion of specialized military training. Familiarity with command and control systems, missile launch protocols, and security clearance requirements is essential. Exceptional attention to detail, stress management, and clear decision-making are crucial soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These abilities ensure the safe, precise, and responsible operation of missile systems, which are vital for national security.

What are Missile Operations Officers?

Missile Operations Officers are military personnel responsible for managing and operating missile systems, such as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), for national defense. They monitor missile readiness, oversee launch procedures, and ensure the safety and security of missile facilities. These officers play a crucial role in maintaining the strategic deterrence capabilities of their nation's armed forces. Their duties often involve working in highly secure environments and collaborating closely with other military branches.
More about Missile Operations Officer jobs
Infographic showing various Missile Operations Officer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,254 per year, or $37.1 per hour.
SURFACE WARFARE OFFICER - FL

SURFACE WARFARE OFFICER - FL

U.S. Navy

Pompano Beach, FL

$4K - $6K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

America’s Navy has the most modern, advanced fleet of ships in the entire world. Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their crews and their systems. SWOs learn and apply the critical leadership and technical skills of junior executives and professional naval officers. As a SWO, you could do any of the following: 

  • Directing personnel operations aboard Navy vessels, such as aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, amphibious warfare ships, mine warfare ships and frigates
  • Managing shipboard vertical launch systems and weapons systems
  • Using computer displays and advanced technology in battle and ship defense
  • Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine warfare, surface-to-air warfare, and support and supply missions

You will lead some of America’s finest men and women, taking charge of highly skilled professionals and millions of dollars’ worth of high-tech equipment. Providing direction. Leading by example. As the backbone of fleet leadership, you have the opportunity to use your skills on ships throughout the fleet. A career as a SWO could eventually lead you to becoming a Commanding Officer of a navy warship. Surface Warfare Officers are assigned to ships in one of five groups:

  • Aircraft Carrier Forces: Provide air defense and shore bombardment from conventional and nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
  • Cruiser-Destroyer Forces: Combat ships with a wide array of missile and fire power capabilities providing anti-air, anti-submarine and surface warfare support, escort and shore bombardment.
  • Amphibious Forces: Embark and transport vehicles, cargo and troops for amphibious assault operations.
  • Combat-Logistics Forces: Provide combatant ships with fuel, ammunition, food and spare parts through underway replenishment ships and repair, maintenance and rescue capabilities through fleet support ships.
  • Mine Warfare Forces: Detect, identify and neutralize threats to maritime forces from hostile use of mines.

PAY, BENEFITS & EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Our people are our most valuable assets, so we care for them well. With world-class training, opportunity to pay for college and advanced degrees, access to the best health care in the country, retirement plans, tax incentives, and more perks than you could have imagined, Navy active-duty benefits are the most competitive out there. 

  • Earn up to $150,000 while finishing your degree
  • Regular monthly income ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 prior to your graduation   
  • Free graduate education through Post 9/11 GI Bill
  • 30 days of paid vacation time each year
  • Competitive and pay and bonuses: Total compensation at 4 years of service for Lieutenant in San Diego, CA ($130,000)
  • Automatic Promotions based on ability and performance
  • Comprehensive medical and dental care at no cost to sailor
  • Low-cost childcare services
  • Opportunities to travel the world
  • Excellent retirement benefits including Blended Retirement System/Pension and 5% 401K Government matching contribution
  • Food allowances
  • A housing allowance that is based upon the location of the school you attend

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

To be an eligible candidate, you must be:

  • A U.S. citizen
  • 19-29 years old (age waiver may be approved on case-by-case basis)
  • Bachelor’s degree or be in pursuit of a bachelor's degree with at least 60 credits hours and be currently enrolled full time to a baccalaureate degree from a non-NROTC affiliated institution accredited institution
  • Prior Service Navy and other branches of service are welcome to apply

Makeup of a competitive candidate:

  • GPA > 2.8,
  • Physical fitness
  • Extra-curricular activities
  • Community involvement
  • Outstanding character
  • Great leadership potential
  • Excellent communication skills

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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