Combat forces use many different types of weapons from small field artillery to large ballistic missiles. Weapons may be fired from ships, planes, and ground stations. Most modern weapons have electronic components and systems that assist in locating targets, aiming weapons, and firing them. Weapons maintenance technicians maintain and repair weapons used by combat forces.
What They Do
Weapons maintenance technicians in the military perform some or all of the following duties:
- Repair and maintain artillery, naval gun systems, and infantry weapons
- Clean and lubricate gyroscopes, sights, and other electro-optical fire control components
- Repair and maintain missile mounts, platforms, and launch mechanisms
- Test and adjust weapons firing, guidance, and launch systems
- Maintain, operate, service, and repair weapons support systems such as power generation and distribution systems, environmental control, loading equipment, and associated interfaces
- Operate and maintain automated data processing equipment to perform munitions accounting, computations, and research
Helpful Attributes
Helpful school subjects include science and math. Helpful attributes include:
- Ability to do work requiring accuracy and attention to detail
- Interest in working with electronic or electrical equipment
- Interest in working with weapons
Training Provided
Job training consists of classroom instruction and practical experience. Training length varies depending on specialty. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. Course content typically includes:
- Electronic and mechanical principles and concepts
- Use of schematics, drawings, blueprints, and wiring diagrams
- Operation, testing, and maintenance of weapons systems and fire control systems
Work Environment
Weapons maintenance technicians work in workshops when testing and repairing electronic components. They may work outdoors while inspecting and repairing combat vehicles, ships, artillery, aircraft, and missile silos.
Civilian Counterparts
Civilian weapons maintenance technicians work for firms that design, build, and test weapons systems for the military. They perform duties similar to military weapons maintenance technicians. They may also be called avionics technicians, electronic mechanics, or missile facilities repairers.
