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Service Branches
Work Environment
Artillery and missile crew members work under different conditions depending on the type of weapon system they use. Some crew members spend a lot of time in field training exercises, where they work, eat, and sleep outdoors and in tents. Others live and work aboard ships or submarines.
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Military Status
Enlisted
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Average Military Salary
$57,715
Overview
Artillery and missile crew members target, fire, and maintain weapons used to destroy enemy positions, aircraft, and vessels. The specific duties they perform vary by the type of combat operations they support. Field artillery crew members predominantly use guns, cannons, and howitzers in ground combat operations; air defense artillery crew members predominantly use missiles and rockets; and, naval artillery crew members predominantly use torpedoes and missiles launched from a ship or submarine.
Military Training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for artillery and missile crew members consists of classroom and field training under simulated combat conditions. Further training occurs on the job and through training exercises. Training content may include:
- Methods of computing target locations
- Ammunition-handling and storage techniques
- Weapon, missile, and rocket system operations
- Artillery tactics and battle strategy
- Weapons assembly, disassembly, maintenance, storage, and transportation
- Installation and operation of communication and control systems
- Positioning of vehicles and equipment
Helpful Attributes
- Ability to think and remain calm in stressful situations
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Interest in cannon and rocket operations
- Willingness to face danger
Related Civilian Careers
- Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
- Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines
- Maintenance Workers, Machinery
- Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers and Repairers
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