Other relevant skills include experience with formatting, technical editing, and coordinating the formal release process for all weapon design definition on both the unclassified and classified ...
Other relevant skills include experience with formatting, technical editing, and coordinating the formal release process for all weapon design definition on both the unclassified and classified ...
X-Theoretical Design (XTD) is a national resource for deterrence of existing or emerging threats. We are experts in the physics of nuclear weapons, tasked with designing nuclear explosives for the US ...
X-Theoretical Design (XTD) is a national resource for deterrence of existing or emerging threats. We are experts in the physics of nuclear weapons, tasked with designing nuclear explosives for the US ...
X-Theoretical Design (XTD) is a national resource for deterrence of existing or emerging threats. We are experts in the physics of nuclear weapons, tasked with designing nuclear explosives for the US ...
X-Theoretical Design (XTD) is a national resource for deterrence of existing or emerging threats. We are experts in the physics of nuclear weapons, tasked with designing nuclear explosives for the US ...
Weapon Systems Senior Analyst
Laurel, MD · On-site
Embed yourself in a cross-functional team that blends systems-engineering expertise with operational insight to drive the design, development, and fielding of sophisticated weapon systems. * Partner ...
Weapon Systems Senior Analyst
Laurel, MD · On-site
Embed yourself in a cross-functional team that blends systems-engineering expertise with operational insight to drive the design, development, and fielding of sophisticated weapon systems. * Partner ...
The Production Liaison Group (W-8) is the Design Agency representative to the Nuclear Security Enterprise production plants and ensures that weapon production activities at the Production Agencies ...
The Production Liaison Group (W-8) is the Design Agency representative to the Nuclear Security Enterprise production plants and ensures that weapon production activities at the Production Agencies ...
Document Configuration Management Quality Analyst 2/3 (Quality Assurance Analyst 2/3)
Los Alamos, NM · On-site
The Production Liaison Group (W-8) is the Design Agency representative to the Nuclear Security Enterprise production plants and ensures that weapon production activities at the Production Agencies ...
Document Configuration Management Quality Analyst 2/3 (Quality Assurance Analyst 2/3)
Los Alamos, NM · On-site
The Production Liaison Group (W-8) is the Design Agency representative to the Nuclear Security Enterprise production plants and ensures that weapon production activities at the Production Agencies ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapon s in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hard war e systems ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapon s in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hard war e systems ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hardware systems ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hardware systems ...
Junior Engineer or Physical Scientist / Nuclear Analyst
Germantown, MD · On-site
$110K - $135K/yr
Nuclear weapon design, development, testing, production, and deployment * Candidates with knowledge of DOE derivative classification are highly regarded Education: * This position requires a Bachelor ...
Quick apply
Junior Engineer or Physical Scientist / Nuclear Analyst
Germantown, MD · On-site
$110K - $135K/yr
Nuclear weapon design, development, testing, production, and deployment * Candidates with knowledge of DOE derivative classification are highly regarded Education: * This position requires a Bachelor ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hardware systems ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hardware systems ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hardware systems ...
You will lead the design, development, and integration of complex systems for air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons in highly classified environments, with a strong emphasis on hardware systems ...
Junior Engineer or Physical Scientist / Nuclear Analyst
Germantown, MD · On-site
$110K - $135K/yr
Nuclear weapon design, development, testing, production, and deployment * Candidates with knowledge of DOE derivative classification are highly regarded Education: * This position requires a Bachelor ...
Junior Engineer or Physical Scientist / Nuclear Analyst
Germantown, MD · On-site
$110K - $135K/yr
Nuclear weapon design, development, testing, production, and deployment * Candidates with knowledge of DOE derivative classification are highly regarded Education: * This position requires a Bachelor ...
Junior Engineer or Physical Scientist / Nuclear Analyst
Germantown, MD · Hybrid
$110K - $135K/yr
Nuclear weapon design, development, testing, production, and deployment * Candidates with knowledge of DOE derivative classification are highly regarded Education: * This position requires a Bachelor ...
Junior Engineer or Physical Scientist / Nuclear Analyst
Germantown, MD · Hybrid
$110K - $135K/yr
Nuclear weapon design, development, testing, production, and deployment * Candidates with knowledge of DOE derivative classification are highly regarded Education: * This position requires a Bachelor ...
Weapons Integration Engineer Sr - Level 3
Fort Worth, TX · On-site
$99K - $134K/yr
Develop system design, test, and certification plans for a variety of air-to-air weapons. * Execute integration and flight-test activities, analyzing results and driving corrective actions. * Assess ...
Weapons Integration Engineer Sr - Level 3
Fort Worth, TX · On-site
$99K - $134K/yr
Develop system design, test, and certification plans for a variety of air-to-air weapons. * Execute integration and flight-test activities, analyzing results and driving corrective actions. * Assess ...
Nuclear topics : weapon design, weaponization, testing, engineering, improvised devices, security, trafficking, materials, forensics, fuel cycle, weapon delivery, facilities and infrastructure ...
Nuclear topics : weapon design, weaponization, testing, engineering, improvised devices, security, trafficking, materials, forensics, fuel cycle, weapon delivery, facilities and infrastructure ...
Weapon Systems Analyst
Laurel, MD · On-site
$85K - $115K/yr
Support in-depth analyses at the system and sub-system levels, producing data-driven recommendations that inform design decisions. * Develop an understanding of how weapon systems function, are ...
Weapon Systems Analyst
Laurel, MD · On-site
$85K - $115K/yr
Support in-depth analyses at the system and sub-system levels, producing data-driven recommendations that inform design decisions. * Develop an understanding of how weapon systems function, are ...
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Lexington Park, MD · On-site
$108K - $155K/yr
We fill key roles within customer offices, offering critical knowledge regarding design, development, procurement, and test and evaluation of new and upgraded weapons and platforms. ACE Group ...
Quick apply
Weapon Systems Engineer (ENKG24006)
Lexington Park, MD · On-site
$108K - $155K/yr
We fill key roles within customer offices, offering critical knowledge regarding design, development, procurement, and test and evaluation of new and upgraded weapons and platforms. ACE Group ...
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$110K - $125K/yr
Design, develop, and deploy advanced architectural solutions and technical systems related to missile defense weapon performance. * Modeling & Simulation: Analyze and rigorously evaluate end-to-end ...
Advanced Systems Engineer - Weapon System Performance
Huntsville, AL · On-site
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Design, develop, and deploy advanced architectural solutions and technical systems related to missile defense weapon performance. * Modeling & Simulation: Analyze and rigorously evaluate end-to-end ...
Our team supports the design, development, and testing of directed energy weapons to enhance warfighter capabilities. You will directly impact U.S. Navy and Department of War efforts by providing ...
Our team supports the design, development, and testing of directed energy weapons to enhance warfighter capabilities. You will directly impact U.S. Navy and Department of War efforts by providing ...
Embed yourself in a cross‑functional team that blends systems‑engineering expertise with operational insight to drive the design, development, and fielding of sophisticated weapon systems.
Embed yourself in a cross‑functional team that blends systems‑engineering expertise with operational insight to drive the design, development, and fielding of sophisticated weapon systems.
Weapon Design information
See salary details
$70.5K - $81.8K
6% of jobs
$81.8K - $93.1K
6% of jobs
$93.1K - $104.5K
9% of jobs
$107.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$104.5K - $115.8K
11% of jobs
$115.8K - $127.1K
12% of jobs
The median wage is $131.5K / yr.
$127.1K - $138.4K
15% of jobs
$138.4K - $149.7K
16% of jobs
$150.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$149.7K - $161K
7% of jobs
$161K - $172.4K
8% of jobs
$172.4K - $183.7K
6% of jobs
$183.7K - $195K
3% of jobs
$70.5K
$134.6K
$195K
How much do weapon design jobs pay per year?
What is a Weapon Design job?
A Weapon Design job involves creating and developing weapons for military, law enforcement, or defense applications. Designers work on everything from firearms and explosives to advanced missile systems, ensuring functionality, safety, and efficiency. This role requires expertise in engineering, materials science, and ballistics, often utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) software. Weapon designers collaborate with defense contractors, government agencies, and military organizations to meet strategic and technological requirements.
What are some typical daily responsibilities for a Weapon Design professional?
As a Weapon Design professional, your daily responsibilities may include developing and refining technical specifications, modeling components using CAD tools, conducting simulations and analysis, and collaborating with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing and testing engineers. You may also be involved in technical reviews, documentation, and ensuring that all designs meet regulatory and safety standards. The role often requires a balance of independent technical work and teamwork to solve complex engineering challenges and advance project goals. Staying current with evolving technologies and industry best practices is also a key part of succeeding in this dynamic and impactful career.
What engineers make $500,000?
How to get into firearm design?
What job designs firearms?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Weapon Design position, and why are they important?
To thrive in Weapon Design, you need a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, physics, and materials science, often supported by a relevant degree or advanced certification. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and familiarity with industry safety and compliance standards is essential. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills ensure that weapon systems are designed efficiently, safely, and collaboratively to meet rigorous technical and regulatory requirements.
What is someone who designs weapons called?

Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 29 days ago
Los Alamos National Laboratory rating
9.2
Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
8th of 103 rated laboratories
Job description
This position will be filled at either the Quality Assurance Analyst level 2 or 3, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
The Production Liaison Group (W-8) of the Weapon Systems Engineering Division is looking for a Quality Assurance Analyst to support the Engineering Authorization team with tasks related to engineering authorizations for weapon product definition. W-8 is the Design Agency representative to the Nuclear Security Enterprise (NSE) production plants to ensure that production activities meet design requirements and intent.
Group liaisons are responsible for daily interactions with the Production Agencies-Detonator and Pit production at LANL, Kansas City National Security Campus, Pantex Plant, and Y-12 National Security Complex-surrounding the design, manufacture, and certification of the products. In addition, the group manages ALDW records stewardship via document configuration management (DCM) and formal communications via engineering authorizations (EA).
The successful candidate will coordinate directly with the EA team lead for all technical aspects of the role but will report to the W-8 group management. This is an on-site position in Los Alamos, NM.
Quality Assurance Analyst 2 - $80,400-$127,900
The primary role is to ensure that all formal communications via engineering authorizations related to nuclear weapons programs are current, accurate, and complete for any given weapon system. This position requires interaction with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely processing of engineering authorizations.
The selected candidate must be able to operate independently and exercise initiative to demonstrate successful completion of assigned tasks. Flexibility is required to meet stakeholder deadlines while working on multiple tasks for numerous stakeholders with changing priorities.
Other relevant skills include experience with formatting, technical editing, and coordinating the formal release process for all weapon design definition on both the unclassified and classified networks. The successful applicant will ensure alignment of equivalent quality-assurance (QA) work conducted by the Engineering Authorization team.
Quality Assurance Analyst 3 - $96,600-$158,000
In addition to the responsibilities outlined at the lower level, this position will assist with Engineering Authorizations (EA) tracking (to meet production priorities and milestones), Defense Programs Business Process System (DPBPS) quality-document reviews (for compliance with NAP-401.1A, Product Realization, and 6.X Process), and monitor, collect, tabulate, and analyze electronic data to ensure proper data collection, evaluation, and storage. The individual will participate in the development and collaboration of new tools and working groups that facilitate new enterprise functions.
The position requires close collaboration within the EA team, W-8 Production Liaison (PL) personnel, ALDW-DAQ personnel, various groups within W and Q Divisions, and possibly production-agency counterparts. Work occurs in a highly variable environment that requires cooperation, adaptability, de-escalation techniques, and initiative.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Quality Assurance Experience
- Knowledge of and experience with Defense Programs Business Process System (DPBPS), LANL Design Agency (DA), and Weapon System Engineering policies, procedures, and best practices.
- Understanding of the Engineering Authorization System.
- Experience in technical editorial review including proofreading, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and accuracy when reviewing technical documents, diagrams, drawings, and component lists.
Data Management
- Experience with relevant software applications, spreadsheets, and word-processing tools.
- Demonstrated experience in management of classified materials and electronic media.
- Experience with procedures related to quality, data gathering and analysis, and process-improvement activities.
Personal Leadership
- Experience collaborating with LANL management, integrating efforts between teams, and directing stakeholders to resources, procedures, and appropriate capabilities.
- Experience effectively supporting multiple high-level deliverables and assignments in a timely manner.
Communication and Teamwork
- Strong oral and written skills.
- Experience building strong stakeholder relations while adhering to security requirements, especially regarding protection of LANL technologies, products, and related documentation.
- Proven experience in clear and concise oral and written communication.
- Experience interacting within a large team with technical staff and diverse stakeholders to ensure high-quality service.
- Experience leading and guiding others through data mining, quality reviews, and processes.
Additional Job Requirements for Quality Assurance Analyst 3
Quality Assurance Experience
- Experience collaborating with team and other stakeholders to improve systems, processes, and documentation.
- Thorough understanding of the Engineering Authorization System and its various uses and functions.
- Demonstrated skills in quality reviews.
Communication and Teamwork
- Experience driving improvement(s) as part of a team.
- Demonstrated excellence in interpersonal and communication skills as evidenced by successful interaction with various levels of management or stakeholders.
Data Management
- Demonstrated experience with configuration management (e.g., uploading and revising documents, and quality control).
- Demonstrated experience with relevant software applications, spreadsheets, and word-processing tools.
- Advanced experience in management of classified materials and electronic media.
Collaboration and Personal Responsibility
- Demonstrated commitment to quality and stakeholder focus, with an advanced ability to interact successfully under pressure.
Leadership Experience
- Proven ability to mentor others and lead team assignments and interactions to ensure deliverables are realized.
Education / Experience
Level 2: Bachelor's degree and five years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Level 3: Bachelor's degree and eight years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with the engineering authorization system, document and configuration management (e.g., EALink, ThingWorx, ePDMLink, and PDMLink), and applications to stockpile maintenance.
- Experience with Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat Professional, and/or UltraCompare.
- Experience with PRIME.
- Extensive knowledge of configuration management.
- Derivative Classifier (DC) experience.
- Active DOE Q-Clearance and Sigma 15 authorization.
Work Location:
The work location for this position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM.
Position commitment:
Regular-appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required time, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with documented approval from their Division Leader. The position commitment for this role is one year.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea, and the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents ("green-card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear-weapons production facilities, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.
For full consideration, applicants must submit a resume and comprehensive cover letter addressing each key requirement of this position
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
- PPO or High-Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
- Dental and vision insurance
- Free basic life and disability insurance
- Paid maternity and parental leave
- Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
- Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
- Flexible schedules and time off (paid sick, vacation, and holidays)
- Onsite gyms and wellness programs
- Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50-mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664-6947, opt. 3.
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About Los Alamos National Laboratory
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Industry
Scientific research and development services
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Los Alamos, NM, US
Year founded
1943