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Weapons Manufacturing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Technician B Job Code: 40845 Job Location: Ashburn, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees ... weapon systems, and other RF sensor technologies using small company agility and big company ...

Manufacturing Technician B

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$22.84 - $42.55/hr

The Manufacturing Technician will fabricate components and assemblies for various unmanned ... weapon systems, and other RF sensor technologies using small company agility and big company ...

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CoAspire ( is a cutting-edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, w ...

Lead, Manufacturing Electrical Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$163K - $170K/yr

Lead, Manufacturing Engineering Job Code: 37529 Job Location: Ashburn, Va Job Schedule: Employees ... weapon systems, and other RF sensor technologies using small company agility and big company ...

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Weapons Manufacturing information

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How much do weapons manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons manufacturing in Virginia is $12.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $12.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is weapons manufacturing?

Weapons manufacturing is the process of designing, producing, and assembling various types of weapons and defense equipment, such as firearms, ammunition, explosives, and military vehicles. This industry involves advanced engineering, strict safety protocols, and adherence to government regulations. Weapons manufacturers typically work closely with military organizations, law enforcement agencies, and sometimes private security firms to supply high-quality, reliable equipment. The field requires expertise in metallurgy, mechanical engineering, quality assurance, and often includes research into new technologies to improve weapon performance and safety.

What is the job called when you make weapons?

The job of making weapons is typically called a weapons manufacturer, gunsmith, or armorer. These professionals design, assemble, and repair firearms and other weaponry, often working in manufacturing plants or specialized workshops, and may require technical skills and safety certifications.

What is the highest paying job in manufacturing?

In manufacturing, senior engineering roles such as Manufacturing Engineering Manager or Plant Manager tend to be among the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of production processes and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in weapons manufacturing roles?

Professionals in weapons manufacturing often encounter challenges related to maintaining strict safety and quality standards, as the industry is highly regulated. Adhering to detailed protocols and documentation is essential to ensure compliance with government and international regulations. Additionally, working collaboratively with engineers, quality assurance teams, and supply chain partners is crucial to meet tight production deadlines and manage complex projects. Adapting to rapidly evolving technology and security requirements can also be demanding, but it offers valuable opportunities for skill development and career advancement.

What is weapon manufacturing called?

Weapon manufacturing is commonly referred to as arms production or arms manufacturing. It involves designing, assembling, and testing firearms, ammunition, and other weapon systems, often requiring specialized skills, safety protocols, and adherence to government regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in weapons manufacturing, and why are they important?

To excel in weapons manufacturing, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of manufacturing processes, and often a background in engineering or skilled trades. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machinery, quality control systems, and knowledge of industry regulations or relevant certifications (such as ITAR or ISO) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to safety are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure products meet strict safety, quality, and legal standards in a highly regulated and precise industry.

How to Get a Job in Weapons Manufacturing

The qualifications and skills that you need to get a weapons manufacturing job depend on the responsibilities of your position. Weapons engineering jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering or science subject. Specializations for this field include computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or ballistic engineering. Assemblers and technicians need at least a high school diploma or vocational degree. Some employers prefer to hire weapons manufacturing professionals with previous military experience or training. Design jobs related to the military require that you obtain a security clearance.

What is the difference between Weapons Manufacturing vs Gunsmith?

AspectWeapons ManufacturingGunsmith
Required CredentialsTechnical certifications, manufacturing trainingGun repair and customization certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, assembly lines, industrial settingsGun shops, repair facilities, custom shops
Industry UsageMass production of firearms and military equipmentCustom firearm repair, modification, and restoration

Weapons Manufacturing involves large-scale production of firearms and military equipment in industrial settings, often requiring technical certifications. Gunsmiths focus on repairing, customizing, and restoring firearms in specialized shops, with certifications in gun repair. While both roles work with firearms, weapons manufacturing emphasizes mass production, whereas gunsmithing centers on individual firearm customization and repair.

What are the major weapons manufacturers?

Major weapons manufacturers include companies such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, and General Dynamics. These companies produce a wide range of military equipment, including aircraft, missiles, and defense systems, often requiring specialized engineering skills and security clearances for employment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Weapons Manufacturing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Weapons Manufacturing jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Weapons Manufacturing jobs in Virginia? For Weapons Manufacturing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Weapons Manufacturing job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,776 per year, or $12.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Technician B

L3HHCM20

Ashburn, VA

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Manufacturing Technician B

Job Code: 40845

Job Location: Ashburn, VA

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

As a Manufacturing Technician, you will work in a dynamic, fast paced production and R&D environment with a focus on quality and attention to detail. The Manufacturing Technician will fabricate components and assemblies for various unmanned aerospace applications. Fabrication methods include composite layups, composite trimming, part finishing, painting, bonding, electro-mechanical assembly, and other processes as required.


In this role, you will be a part of the Agile Development Group which is a division that specializes in developing disruptive, next-generation technologies for advanced Unmanned Air Systems (UAS / UAV), advanced radar systems, next-generation weapon systems, and other RF sensor technologies using small company agility and big company experience.

Essential Functions:

  • Performs all duties required to assist with the fabrication and integration of parts and assemblies.
  • Construct layups of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and/or Kevlar utilizing various methods such as compression molds, vacuum bagging, and compression bladders.
  • Perform part-fitting operations such as filing, sawing, burring, crimping, trimming, framing, riveting, drilling, and reaming.
  • Use various adhesives (epoxy, RTV, etc.) to bond a variety of materials (composite, metal, or laminate) to parts, components, assemblies, equipment or structures.
  • Perform finishing operations like filling surface voids, sanding, and painting.
  • Perform wide variety of mechanical and electro-mechanical assembly operations on small, precision parts.
  • Recommends updates for existing processes.
  • Monitors and verifies quality of finished product using various measurement tools (micrometers, calipers, etc.).
  • Identifies and corrects conditions that affect employee safety; upholding corporate safety standards.
  • Work in a team setting collaborating with manufacturing, planning and engineering.
  • Moving, pushing, pulling and/or transport 25-50 pounds on a regular basis. Moving, bending, sitting, standing, climbing, and reaching for prolonged periods of time on a regular basis.
  • Ability to seize, grasp, turn, hold, and operate manufacturing tools and equipment.
  • Willingness and ability to work in a manufacturing environment with regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, dust, fumes, chemicals, and loud noises.
  • Willingness and ability to comply with all applicable PPE requirements (respirators, safety glasses, gloves, etc).
  • Ability to obtain a US Secret Security clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Requires a High school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 4 years of prior relevant experience or 2 yrs post Secondary/Associates Degree or equivalent with a minimum of 0-2 years of prior relevant experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products
  • Excellent people skills to include working in a diverse, and dynamic team environment
  • Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, & presentation)
  • Outstanding work ethic and commitment to organizational success
  • Ability to learn and understand drawings, procedures, and/or schedules
  • Ability to accurately complete all required paperwork
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision
  • Experience working in an environment that implements lean practices
  • Experience working in an environment that implements ESD and FOD controls
  • Experience in the fabrication and integration of composite materials or experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Experience in all phases of product design and fabrication ranging from initial R&D to full production
  • Proficiency with various shop equipment including: cutting/grinding tools, composite curing ovens, manual mills and lathes, table saw, band saws, etc.
  • Ability to read and understand drawings, procedures, and/or schedules
  • Knowledge and understanding of product quality processes

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia (Greater D.C. area) is $22.84 MIN - $42.55 MAX. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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