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Weapons Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... weapon control systems concept definition, design, integration, and engineering. You will also ... Provide analysis of the mechanical requirements for the introduction of new equipment ...

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Weapons Mechanic information

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How much do weapons mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons mechanic in the United States is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are weapons mechanics?

Weapons mechanics are skilled professionals responsible for inspecting, maintaining, repairing, and sometimes modifying various types of military or law enforcement weaponry. They work with firearms, artillery, missile systems, and sometimes electronic weapon components to ensure all equipment is safe, functional, and ready for use. Weapons mechanics diagnose malfunctions, replace parts, and follow strict safety protocols to guarantee the reliability of weapons systems. Their expertise is essential for the operational effectiveness and safety of military and security personnel.

What is the difference between Weapons Mechanic vs Armorer?

AspectWeapons MechanicArmorer
CertificationsMilitary or civilian firearm repair certifications, technical trainingFirearm repair, manufacturing, or military armor certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, repair shops, civilian firearm facilitiesMilitary armories, firearm manufacturing plants, repair shops
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense contractors, civilian firearm companiesMilitary, firearm manufacturers, law enforcement agencies

Both Weapons Mechanics and Armorers work with firearms and related equipment, often in military or civilian settings. Weapons Mechanics focus on repairing and maintaining a wide range of weapon systems, while Armorers specialize in assembling, inspecting, and certifying firearms and armor. The roles overlap in certifications and work environments, but their specific duties differ based on specialization and employer needs.

What are some common challenges faced by Weapons Mechanics in maintaining and troubleshooting military-grade equipment?

Weapons Mechanics often work with complex and sensitive military-grade hardware, which can present unique challenges such as diagnosing intricate malfunctions under tight deadlines or in field conditions. They must stay updated on evolving technology and ensure all repairs meet rigorous safety and operational standards. Additionally, collaboration with other technical personnel and adherence to strict documentation and procedural protocols are crucial aspects of the role. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential, especially when equipment must be quickly returned to service in mission-critical environments.

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

To thrive as a Weapons Mechanic, you need strong mechanical aptitude, technical troubleshooting skills, and knowledge of firearms and ordnance systems, typically backed by vocational training or military certification. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, technical manuals, and maintenance management systems like the Air Force's GO81 or Army's SAMS-E is common. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure the proper maintenance, safety, and reliability of weapons systems, which are vital for operational readiness and mission success.
More about Weapons Mechanic jobs
Infographic showing various Weapons Mechanic job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,613 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Senior Staff Engineer, Weapons Systems (SD/TX/DC) (R5019)

Senior Staff Engineer, Weapons Systems (SD/TX/DC) (R5019)

Shield AI

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AIโ€™s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.ย 

Job Description:

We are seeking a Weapons Systems Engineer to lead the integration, validation, and operational deployment of advanced weapon capabilities on X-Bat. This role directly impacts mission readiness, combat effectiveness, aircraft survivability, and program execution by ensuring weapon systems are successfully integrated, tested, and fielded to operational users.

The engineer will work across the full lifecycle from requirements development through flight test, helping reduce integration risk, accelerate capability delivery, and improve overall mission system performance.

What you'll do:
  • Define weapon system behaviors, operational sequences, and mission workflows to ensure reliable and predictable weapon employment across all phases of operation
  • Develop system architectures, activity diagrams, interface definitions, and functional behaviors for aircraft weapon systems and mission system integration
  • Lead integration of weapon systems, stores management systems, and avionics interfaces while coordinating across software, avionics, flight sciences, mechanical design, and test teams
  • Support lab, ground, and flight test activities to validate system behavior, identify integration issues early, and improve mission system reliability
  • Perform troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective action development to reduce integration risk, improve operational readiness, and accelerate capability fielding
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience in military aerospace, mission systems, avionics, or weapon systems integration
  • Experience defining system behavior, operational concepts, activity diagrams, or functional architectures for complex aerospace systems
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD-1760, MIL-STD-1553, and hardware/software integration environments
  • Strong systems engineering, troubleshooting, and cross-functional communication skills
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience supporting fighter aircraft, UAV, bomber, or advanced military aircraft programs
  • Experience with MBSE methodologies and tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler
  • Background in HIL/SIL integration labs, flight test, or operational weapon system validation
  • Familiarity with airworthiness, cybersecurity, and resilient mission systems
  • Active Secret or Top Secret clearance preferred
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
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Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
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Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed toย equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.ย 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.