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Weapons Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Systems

$140 - $156/hr

Subject Matter Expert for Submarine Ordnance Weapon Handling, launchers, and stowage system on LOS ANGELES, OHIO, SEAWOLF, and VIRGINIA class submarines. * Subject Matter Expert for Submarine ...

Amyx, Inc.

Nuclear Weapons SME

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Provide expert-level technical and analytic support on nuclear weapons systems, nuclear materials, and associated threat vectors. *Analyze state and non-state actor nuclear weapons capabilities ...

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Weapons Expert information

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$9

$41

$99

How much do weapons expert jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons expert in the United States is $41.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $56.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a weapons expert?

A weapons expert is a professional who has specialized knowledge and training in the use, handling, maintenance, and often the history or legality of various types of weaponry, such as firearms, explosives, or edged weapons. They may work in law enforcement, the military, private security, or as consultants in legal cases or film productions. Their expertise can include ballistics, safe storage, proper operation, and the effects of different weapons. Weapons experts are often called upon to provide training, conduct investigations, or offer expert testimony in court.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weapons expert, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Weapons Expert, you need in-depth knowledge of firearms, explosives, ballistics, and weapon systems, often supported by military, law enforcement, or engineering backgrounds. Familiarity with specialized technical tools, weapon inspection systems, and relevant certifications such as armorer courses or security clearances is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set exceptional professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and effective assessment or deployment of weaponry in high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges weapons experts face when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Weapons Experts often work closely with engineers, safety officers, military personnel, and regulatory bodies. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across teams with different technical backgrounds and priorities, especially regarding safety protocols and technical specifications. Additionally, balancing innovation with strict compliance requirements can be demanding. Effective collaboration and adaptability are crucial for navigating these challenges while contributing valuable expertise to the team's objectives.

What is the difference between Weapons Expert vs Ballistics Specialist?

AspectWeapons ExpertBallistics Specialist
CredentialsFirearms certifications, law enforcement or military trainingForensic science degrees, firearms and projectile analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary, law enforcement, security agenciesForensic labs, crime scene investigations, research facilities
Industry UsageSecurity, defense, law enforcementForensic science, criminal investigations
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding firearm expertise and applicationAnalyzing projectile behavior and forensic evidence

While both roles involve firearms and projectile knowledge, a Weapons Expert focuses on firearm operation, handling, and application, often within security or military contexts. A Ballistics Specialist specializes in analyzing projectile behavior, forensic evidence, and crime scene investigation. The two roles complement each other but serve different purposes within the firearms and forensic industries.

More about Weapons Expert jobs

What states have the most Weapons Expert jobs?

States with the most job openings for Weapons Expert jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Weapons Expert jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Weapons Expert jobs are:

Weapons Expert jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weapons Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,380 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness

Evidence Solutions, Inc.

Dallas, TX • On-site, Remote

$200 - $275/hr

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

This is a remote position.

Evidence Solutions, Inc. is a nationally recognized expert witness and litigation support firm providing consulting across a wide range of civil and criminal matters. Our team partners with attorneys, insurance carriers, municipalities, corporations, and government entities to deliver credible and defensible expert analysis.

We provide our experts with full-service support including marketing/business development, case intake and client support, billing and collections, allowing experts to focus on what they love doing best — working with the evidence.

Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness to join our team of forensic and litigation support professionals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in firearms examination, ballistic analysis, shooting incident reconstruction, and the application of forensic science to firearms-related cases. This role is well suited for a Firearms Examiner, Ballistics Analyst, Forensic Scientist, Law Enforcement Firearms Specialist, or Military Weapons Expert who has investigated and analyzed shooting incidents and understands the standards and methodologies governing firearms evidence.

This position provides an opportunity to apply firearms and ballistics expertise to legal matters involving shooting incidents, firearm functionality, trajectory analysis, and weapons-related forensic investigations.

Requirements
Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct forensic examinations of firearms, ammunition, and ballistic evidence, including bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residue.
  • Analyze shooting incidents, including trajectory analysis, distance determination, and reconstruction of events based on physical evidence.
  • Evaluate firearm functionality, safety mechanisms, and potential defects or malfunctions.
  • Review case materials including scene evidence, autopsy reports, police reports, and forensic lab findings to assess firearm-related events.
  • Review and validate evidence of handling procedures including chain of custody, laboratory analysis, and testing protocols.
  • Assess use-of-force scenarios involving firearms, including officer-involved shootings, self-defense claims, and accidental discharges.
  • Consult with legal teams to assess firearms evidence, identify inconsistencies, and support case strategy.
  • Prepare detailed expert reports and professional opinions based on accepted firearms examination methodologies and forensic science principles.
  • Provide expert witness testimony in depositions and trials, translating complex concepts and firearms & ballistics findings into clear and defensible opinions
  • Stay current on developments in firearms technology, ballistic analysis techniques, forensic standards, and legal precedents related to firearms cases.

Qualifications:

  • 15+ years of professional experience in Firearms Examination, Ballistics Analysis, Law Enforcement or Military Firearms Specialist roles, Crime Lab Forensics, or related fields. 
  • Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Ballistics, or a related field preferred.
  • Extensive experience in firearms examination, ballistics analysis, or forensic firearms investigations.
  • Deep understanding of firearms and forensic standards, including toolmark identification, trajectory analysis, gunshot residue testing, and evidence comparison techniques.
  • Experience working with laboratory testing procedures, firearms databases (e.g., NIBIN), and forensic analysis tools.
  • Strong knowledge of firearm safety standards and shooting incident reconstruction.
  • Demonstrated experience analyzing firearms-related evidence and presenting findings in investigative or legal settings.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex forensic concepts to attorneys, juries, and non-technical audiences.
  • Prior expert witness or courtroom testimony experience is preferred.
  • Relevant certifications or training in firearms examination, forensic science, or ballistics analysis are strongly preferred.



Benefits
Compensation & Structure:
  • 1099 independent contractor arrangement
  • WFH
  • Competitive hourly expert witness compensation
  • Flexible case-based workload
Why Partner with ESI
What We Offer:
  • Dedicated case management and administrative support from initial client intake to billing and collections that allows you to focus on doing what you love, delivering expert insights.
  • Marketing and business development initiatives designed to generate new case opportunities and expand your reach and visibility in the legal industry.
  • Peer review support and access to a multidisciplinary team of experts.
  • Report writing support and professional development opportunities such as deposition coaching, testimony training, and continuing education in emerging human factors research.
  • Flexible engagement structure.
  • A collaborative environment where your expertise is valued, and your contributions directly influence case outcomes.