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Nuclear Weapons Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Nuclear Weapons SME will advise CWMD leadership, intelligence analysts, and interagency partners on nuclear weapons design, development, employment concepts, proliferation risks, and threat ...

Amyx is seeking a highly experienced Nuclear Weapons Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) Advisory ...

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nuclear weapons information

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$39K

$115.1K

$154.5K

How much do nuclear weapons jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear weapons in the United States is $115,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $131,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are nuclear weapons?

Nuclear weapons are explosive devices that derive their destructive power from nuclear reactions, either fission or a combination of fission and fusion. They are capable of causing massive destruction and loss of life, making them some of the most powerful weapons ever created. Used primarily as deterrents, nuclear weapons are strictly controlled under international law and treaties due to their potential to cause catastrophic humanitarian and environmental consequences.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in nuclear weapons programs?

Professionals in nuclear weapons programs often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to security protocols, working with highly sensitive information, and navigating rigorous compliance with national and international regulations. The work environment typically emphasizes collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, engineers, and security personnel, to ensure safety and reliability. Additionally, the nature of the field requires continuous training and staying up-to-date with technological advancements, which can be demanding but also offers opportunities for professional growth.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, strong analytical skills, and typically a relevant bachelor's degree or military training. Familiarity with nuclear safety protocols, weapon control systems, and classified security clearance are essential technical requirements. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safe handling, maintenance, and security of nuclear weapons, which directly impact national security.

What is the difference between Nuclear Weapons vs Nuclear Physicist?

AspectNuclear WeaponsNuclear Physicist
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, military or government trainingAdvanced degree in physics or related field, research experience
Work EnvironmentMilitary facilities, government labs, classified settingsResearch labs, universities, government agencies
Industry UsageDefense, military, governmentResearch, academia, government research agencies

Nuclear weapons involve the development, testing, and management of explosive devices with nuclear capabilities, primarily for defense purposes. Nuclear physicists focus on understanding nuclear reactions, conducting research, and developing applications in energy, medicine, or scientific fields. While both roles require advanced physics knowledge, nuclear weapons work is highly classified and security-sensitive, whereas nuclear physicists often work in open research environments.

What jobs are there in the nuclear weapons field?

Jobs in the nuclear weapons field include roles such as nuclear engineers, weapons scientists, safety and security specialists, and maintenance technicians. These positions often require advanced degrees in science or engineering, security clearances, and knowledge of nuclear materials, testing, and safety protocols.
More about nuclear weapons jobs

What cities are hiring for Nuclear Weapons jobs?

Cities with the most Nuclear Weapons job openings:

What states have the most Nuclear Weapons jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Nuclear Weapons job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,106 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Nuclear Weapons

Air National Guard Recruiting

Sheppard Air Force Base, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Enlisted Nuclear Weapons

As a superior military force, we maintain some of the most advanced nuclear weapon systems in the world. It's the enormous responsibility of the Nuclear Weapons specialist to maintain, inspect, assemble, store and account for these weapon systems and all associated equipment. Through their extreme attention to detail and highly specialized training, they work tirelessly to ensure that our diverse nuclear arsenal remains safe, secure, and effective. This unwavering commitment to excellence serves as a powerful deterrent to any potential adversaries, as they know that any attempt to threaten our national security will be met with an overwhelming and devastating response.

What You'll Do

  • Performs and manages inspection, maintenance, storage, handling, modification, accountability, custody, and repair of nuclear weapons, weapon components, associated equipment, and specialized test and handling equipment
  • Complies with nuclear safety and surety measures ensuring a safe, secure, and effective nuclear weapon stockpile
  • Uses critical thinking skills to troubleshoot and resolve maintenance problems and submit deficiency reports on faulty components
  • Assists in performing operational checks on alarm systems and inspects, audits, maintains high-security storage structure
  • Plans, organizes, directs, inspects, and evaluates nuclear weapon activities, performance standards, and maintenance priorities

Training & Education

How do we transform you from a raw recruit to an expert Airman in this field? From hands-on experience to college credit toward a degree, the path begins here.

Basic Military Training

7.5 weeks

Technical Training

57 days

Tech School Location

Sheppard AFB, TX

Status Upon Completion

Enlisted Airman with credits earned towards Munitions Systems Technology

Key Things To Consider Requirements

You must meet several requirements before joining the Air Force. These concern your background, overall health and other standards set by the Air Force, Department of Defense and federal law.

  • You must be 17โ€“42 years of age, a U.S. citizen and obtain a qualifying ASVAB score. *High School Students may start their application as early as the end of their junior year. Applicants who are non-graduates or non-alternate credential holders must obtain an AFQT Test score of 65 or higher on the ASVAB
  • 60 Mechanical (M)
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Knowledge of electrical and mechanical principles
  • Normal color vision and depth perception
  • Must be screened for eligibility and meet requirements of the Personnel Reliability Assurance Program (PRAP)
  • No record of sustained, untreatable emotional instability
  • Completion of a current Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI)
  • Completion of 7.5 weeks of Basic Military Training
  • Must be at least 17, but has not reached age 42 on the date of enlistment

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