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Weapon System Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The candidate must have been a Weapons Systems Officer within the last 10 years. The Mission Planning Division (AFLCMC/C3M) consists of multiple Acquisition Category (ACAT) III and SWAP Acquisition ...

Share Laser Weapon System Test Engineer and Scientist The Opportunity: What if you could use your engineering skills to transform the U.S. Navy's directed energy portfolio? As a Laser Weapon System ...

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Weapon System information

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$40K

$116.9K

$148K

How much do weapon system jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapon system in the United States is $116,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $133,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Weapon System vs Weapon Technician?

AspectWeapon SystemWeapon Technician
CredentialsTypically requires engineering or technical degrees, certifications in defense systemsRequires technical certifications, training in maintenance and repair of weapons
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, testing in labs or military facilitiesMaintenance, repair, and troubleshooting in field or repair shops
Industry UsageUsed in defense, military, aerospace sectorsEmployed by military, defense contractors, and maintenance facilities
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to weapon systems design and developmentFocus on maintenance, repair, and technical support of weapons

Weapon System professionals focus on designing, developing, and testing weapon systems, often requiring engineering expertise. In contrast, Weapon Technicians specialize in maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting weapon systems in operational environments. Both roles are essential in defense industries but differ in responsibilities, skills, and work settings.

What are weapon systems?

Weapon systems are integrated combinations of equipment, software, and personnel designed to detect, engage, and neutralize threats in military operations. They typically include the actual weapon (such as a missile, gun, or launcher), targeting and guidance systems, control mechanisms, and support infrastructure. Weapon systems can be found in various forms, including land-based, naval, and airborne platforms, and are crucial for modern defense and security strategies.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in weapon system roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in weapon system roles often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology, strict compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and the need for seamless coordination with multidisciplinary teams. Staying current with technological advancements is essential, which often requires ongoing training and certification. Additionally, clear communication and collaboration with engineers, operators, and project managers are crucial to ensure system reliability and mission success. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in cross-functional meetings can help address these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Weapons Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Weapons Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, often with a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and defense industry standards, as well as security clearances, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate on complex projects and convey technical information effectively. These competencies ensure the safe, reliable, and innovative development of advanced defense systems in a highly regulated environment.
More about Weapon System jobs
What cities are hiring for Weapon System jobs? Cities with the most Weapon System job openings:
What states have the most Weapon System jobs? States with the most job openings for Weapon System jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Weapon System jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Weapon System jobs are:
Infographic showing various Weapon System job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 38% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,935 per year, or $56.2 per hour.
Weapon System Officer

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Applied Research Solutions is seeking an experienced Senior Program Manager to support an Air Force acquisition mission at Eglin AFB, FL specifically focused on the sustainment and modernization of Mission Planning Systems. The candidate will provide T&E technical and engineering support across the full test spectrum to include concept development, methodology development, plan development, execution, and reporting, including data reduction and analysis and end-user operational testing.
The candidate must have been a Weapons Systems Officer within the last 10 years.
The Mission Planning Division (AFLCMC/C3M) consists of multiple Acquisition Category (ACAT) III and SWAP Acquisition Pathway Automated Information System (AIS) development and modernization programs. The Division is responsible for delivering enterprise mission planning software (MPS) for all AF aviation platforms. MPS is a single, modular system of software air navigation planning applications to support new aircraft Operational Flight Programs (OFPs), avionics upgrades and additional weapons integration to support the Joint Warfighter. MPS connects two worlds: the databases necessary to command and control forces (Air Tasking Order (ATO), targeting databases, threat databases, terrain and feature databases, aeronautical flight information file databases, etc.); and the information required by the aircraft weapons/avionics and the aircrew mission folders containing mission critical information. A mission planning suite includes the software, hardware, and linkages to the global grid necessary to plan, develop, and share mission plans and provide the required mission data to the aircraft avionics.
This is a full-time position located at Eglin AFB, Niceville, FL.
Why Work with us?
Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers.
As a Senior Program Manager at ARS, you will:
  • Plan, research, analyze, and assess projects to recommend strategies meeting cost, schedule, and performance goals.
  • Support cost and schedule reduction initiatives for acquisition and development programs.
  • Provide program-level acquisition support to PMs and IPT Leads to guide execution and maintain battle rhythm.
  • Analyze program health and advise leadership on options to maintain objectives.
  • Support and develop program status briefings and acquisition schedules for senior management.
  • Contribute to RFP development including SOWs, SRDs, CDRLs, and technical documentation.
  • Review acquisition documents (ADMs, LCSPs, APBs, PMRs, etc.) for consistency and accuracy.
  • Prepare statutory and regulatory acquisition reports, milestone documentation, and MARs.
  • Implement and execute acquisition processes in collaboration with government and prime contractors.
  • Provide program management expertise per DoDD 5000.1, DoDI 5000.02, and relevant DoD/AF policy.
  • Identify policy disconnects and provide interpretation across acquisition activities.
  • Advise on PM best practices to improve efficiency and cost avoidance.
  • Support acquisition strategy development, market research, risk assessment, and MTA/UCA initiatives.
  • Coordinate and support scheduling personnel and risk management planning.
  • Maintain and update acquisition reports and documentation in tools such as CCaR, IDECS, and EDA.
  • Assist with funding document preparation (e.g., PRs, MIPRs) and briefings.
  • Provide support for life cycle logistics and operational supportability.
  • Compare program direction and plans for alignment and consistency.
  • Monitor and review contractor deliverables, schedules, integration plans, and IT interface controls.
  • Assist in drafting contractual letters and developing source selection strategies and documents.
  • Track and advise on acquisition reform policy impacts.
  • Support mission execution including planning, analysis, event integration/execution, and reporting.
  • Oversee MPE system development and ensure alignment with OFP testing and fielding requirements.
  • Review and evaluate ECPs, RFPs, incentive clauses, and cost proposals for MPEC-II DOs.
  • Correlate EVM cost reports with IMS CDRLs and support risk assessments.
  • Provide DoD directive and AFI guidance to branch chiefs and project managers.
  • Support Mission Planning Independent Validation, FQT, and Development Evaluations.
  • Identify acquisition policy gaps and recommend management solutions.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Experience: 10 years of directly related experience with 5 years of experience in a DoD setting
  • Education: BA/BS degree preferred.
  • Security Clearance: Secret Clearance
  • Certifications: PMP Certificate preferred.
  • Citizenship: Must be a US citizen.

Additional Information:
All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation, including criminal history and identity check.
Must abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.
Must abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.
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.