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Missile Operations Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Program Security Officer

Albuquerque, NM

$80K - $128K/yr

Program Security Officer The Hybrid Architecture and Development for Experimental Systems (HADES ... Development Space and Missile Operations (RDSMO) Ground System Enterprise (GSE) and is ...

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Missile Operations Officer information

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$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.
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What job categories do people searching Missile Operations Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Missile Operations Officer jobs are:
Missile Operations Officer jobs near you
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.
Nuclear Surface Warfare Officer (FL & GA)

Nuclear Surface Warfare Officer (FL & GA)

U.S. Navy

Newberry, FL

$168K/yr

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. Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their crews and their systems. Providing direction. Leading by example. As the backbone of fleet leadership, you have the opportunity to use your skills on ships throughout the fleet—including our nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. A career as a SWO could eventually lead you to becoming a Commanding Officer of a carrier. Aircraft carriers are at the core of our national defense strategy because of their ability to project naval superiority to any location in the world. Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers ensure that Sailors in their department maintain and operate the ship’s complex reactor and power generation systems safely and efficiently. 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 

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 $168,300 while finishing your degree
  • Free Graduate Education through Post 9/11 GI Bill
  • A regular monthly income ranging from $3,280 to $5,610 for up to 30 months prior to your graduation
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000
  • Opportunities to travel the world
  • 30 days of paid vacation time each year
  • Competitive and pay and bonuses - Lieutenant total compensation at 4 years of Service ($112,343.76 - with dependents stationed in San Diego
  • Automatic Promotions based on ability and performance
  • Comprehensive medical and dental care at no cost to sailor
  • Low-cost childcare services
  • 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 & REQUIREMENTSTo be an eligible candidate, you must be:

  • A U.S. Citizen
  • 19-29 years old
  • In pursuit of a bachelor's degree within 2.5 years from graduation and be currently enrolled full time, or have obtained a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
  • Completion of one year of calculus through differential and integral calculus with a grade of C or better
  • Completion of one year of calculus-based physics with a grade of B or better
  • Complete the rigorous NUPOC interview process with the Director of Naval Reactors and the Director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion
  • Prior Service Navy and other branches of service are welcome to apply 

Makeup of a competitive candidate:

  • GPA > 3.0, preferably in preferably in mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry or other technical areas
  • Physical fitness
  • Extra-curricular activities
  • Community involvement
  • Outstanding character
  • Great leadership potential
  • Excellent communication skills
  • True desire to serve in the Surface Warfare community

What United States Navy employees say

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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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