20 Best Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories | Top 5 Entry-Level Jobs

The best paying jobs in Ordnance and Accessories include Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician, Ammunition Supply Point Specialist, and Artillery Officer. These positions are in high demand due to the critical role they play in ensuring military readiness and national security.

What Do Ordnance and Accessories Jobs Pay?

The average annual salary in the Ordnance and Accessories industry is $58,900, according to the BLS. An experienced Explosives Worker, Ammunition Inspector, and other specialized positions can earn up to $90,000 or more annually. On the other hand, an entry-level Machinist or Assembler can earn around $30,000 annually.

15 Highest Paying Ordnance and Accessories Jobs with Good Salaries

  1. Geospatial Information Scientist and Technologist

Geospatial Information Scientist and Technologist

Average Annual Salary: $197,850

A Geospatial Information Scientist and Technologist analyzes geographic information and develop related applications for projects such as transportation, urban planning, and emergency management. This is why they earn a high pay. Skills needed include analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. This is one of the best career paths in Ordnance and Accessories.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography, Surveying, or a related field. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 10% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 4,500 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Materials Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $196,970

A Materials Engineer develops, processes, and tests materials used in a range of products and structures. The complexity of the job makes them earn a high salary. Skills needed include analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and good communication skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Materials Science or a related field. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 3% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 1,200 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Weapons Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $195,110

A Weapons Engineer designs, develops, and tests military weapons and systems. The critical position they occupy makes them earn a high salary. They must have strong technical skills and knowledge of materials, mechanics, and electrical systems.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or a related field, along with experience in the defense industry. The job outlook is positive with 3% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, acording to the BLS. This will create over 1,600 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Mechanical Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $194,350

A Mechanical Engineer designs and develops mechanical devices and systems. The job requires them to be thorough, which is why they earn a high pay. Skills needed include analytical and problem-solving skills, creativity, and good communication skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 5% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 13,200 new job opportunities in the US.

  1. Ballistics Expert

Ballistics Expert

Average Annual Salary: $185,150

A Ballistics Expert uses their knowledge of physics and ballistics to analyze the trajectory of bullets, bombs, and other projectiles. This is why they earn a high pay. They typically work in law enforcement, the military, or in forensic science labs. To succeed in this role, a strong background in physics and mathematics is necessary, as well as excellent analytical skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, Mathematics, or a related field. The job outlook is positive with 2% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 4000 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Ammunition Supervisor

Average Annual Salary: $182,780

An Ammunition Supervisor oversees the storage, handling, and distribution of ammunition in military settings. The high responsibility involved makes them earn a high pay. They need strong organizational and leadership skills to manage teams and ensure safety procedures are followed.

The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 4% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 400 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Ammunition Manager

Average Annual Salary: $161,090

An Ammunition Manager is responsible for the safe storage, transport, and disposal of ammunition. The critical position they occupy makes them earn a high pay. They need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a good understanding of safety protocols.

Most entry-level positions require a High School Diploma, while more advanced positions may require additional training or certifications. The job growth rate is negative, as the BLS projects a decline of 3% from 2021 to 2031. This will result in a loss of about 1000 job opportunities in the US.


  1. Explosives Worker

Average Annual Salary: $152,840

An Explosives Worker handles and disposes of explosives and other hazardous materials safely. This is why they earn a high pay. Skills needed include attention to detail, physical dexterity, and good communication skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 3% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 100 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Gunsmith

Average Annual Salary: $142,350

A Gunsmith repairs, customizes, and modifies firearms to meet the needs of individual customers. This is why they earn a high pay. They need a strong understanding of mechanical engineering and the ability to work with precision tools.

The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. Some vocational schools offer gunsmithing programs in addition. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 4% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 200 new job opportunities in the US.

  1. Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspector 20 Best Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories

Average Annual Salary: $139,140

A Quality Control Inspector ensures that products and materials meet specific standards of quality and safety. They inspect finished products and parts for defects, make sure they are properly labeled, and report any issues to management. This is why they earn a high pay.

The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job is negative with a decline rate of 2% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will result in a loss of about 1,500 job opportunities in the US.


  1. Ordnance Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $121,667

An Ordnance Engineer designs and develops military weapons, bombs, and other ordnance products. The tedious process and requirement of meticulousness makes them earn a high pay. Skills needed include engineering, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 2% increase from 2021 to 2031.


  1. Aerospace Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $118,610

An Aerospace Engineer designs and tests spacecraft, missiles, and other aeronautical and aerospace products. The high complexity of the job makes them earn a high pay. Skills needed include analytical skills, creativity, math skills, problem-solving skills, and communication skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 3% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 1,100 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Nuclear Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $117,170

A Nuclear Engineer design and develop nuclear equipment, such as reactors, and monitor and test its operation. This is why they earn a high pay. Skills needed include math, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related field. The job outlook is positive with 1% growth rate from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 200 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Industrial Production Manager

Average Annual Salary: $109,940

An Industrial Production Manager oversees production operations, plans and coordinates the use of resources, and ensures production meets quality standards. The high level of responsibility involved is why they earn a high pay. Skills needed include leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

The minimum education requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or Industrial Engineering. The job outlook is positive with a growth rate of 2% from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 3,500 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Ballistics Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $105,530

A Ballistics Engineer designs and tests weapons and ammunition to ensure they meet performance standards. They need a deep understanding of physics, mathematics, and engineering principles. This is why they earn a high pay.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or a related field. The job outlook is positive with 3% growth rate from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 2,500 new job opportunities in the US.

5 Highest Paying Entry-Level Ordnance and Accessories Jobs with Good Salaries

  1. Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer 20 Best Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories

Average Annual Salary: $68,230

A Mechanical Engineer designs, develops, and tests mechanical devices, such as engines, tools, and machines for ordnance and accessories. They need skills in math, problem-solving, and communication.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. The job outlook is positive with a growth rate of 4% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 4,500 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Electrical Engineer

Average Annual Salary: $68,170

An Electrical Engineer designs and develops electrical materials, such as electric motors, radar and navigation systems, and power generation equipment used in ordnance and accessories. They need skills in math, problem-solving, and communication.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects a 5% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 4,700 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Computer Systems Analyst

Average Annual Salary: $64,450

A Computer Systems Analyst studies an ordnance and accessories’ company’s current computer systems and procedures. They also design information systems solutions to help the company operate more efficiently and effectively. They need skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 8% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 5,700 new job opportunities in the US.


  1. Technical Writer

Average Annual Salary: $62,810

A Technical Writer prepares instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information to ordnance and accessories workers. They need skills in writing, research, and communication.

The minimum educational requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, English, or a related field is typically required. The job growth rate is positive, as the BLS projects an 8% increase from 2021 to 2031. This will create over 8,600 new job opportunities in the US.

  1. Quality Control Inspector

Quality Control Inspector

Average Annual Salary: $61,740

A Quality Control Inspector examines products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications. They need skills in attention to detail, math, and communication.

The minimum educational requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent. The job outlook is positive with growth rate of 4% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This will create over 3,900 new job opportunities in the US.

How to Apply and Get a High Paying Job in Ordnance and Accessories?

To get a high paying job in ordnance and accessories, there are several strategic steps you can take.

5 practical steps to apply and get a high paying job in Ordnance and Accessories:


  1. Research job opportunities in Ordnance and Accessories

Research available job opportunities in the Ordnance and Accessories industry. Review job descriptions and requirements to ensure alignment with your skills and experience.


  1. Obtain relevant education and training

Obtain relevant education and training in Ordnance and Accessories, such as a degree in Engineering or a related field. Consider pursuing certifications such as the Certified Explosives Specialist (CES) or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) to increase your qualifications.


  1. Gain work experience

Gain relevant work experience through internships or entry-level positions in the Ordnance and Accessories industry. Build transferable skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail.


  1. Develop professional network

Build a professional network in the Ordnance and Accessories industry through networking events, conferences, and industry associations. Connect with professionals in your desired field to learn more about job opportunities and career paths


  1. Apply for high-paying jobs in Ordnance and Accessories

Apply for high paying jobs in Ordnance and Accessories that align with your skills, experience, and education. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your qualifications and skills for the specific job.

Where to Find the Best Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories?

There are several platforms that provide information on finding the best paying jobs in ordnance and accessories.

5 job boards to find the best paying jobs in ordnance and accessories: 


  1. ClearanceJobs

This site specializes in security clearance jobs, including those in the Ordnance and Accessories industry. It offers a range of opportunities for job seekers looking for high-paying positions in this field.


  1. Defense Careers

This official website of the US Defense Department provides job listings and resources for those seeking employment in the defense industry, including Ordnance and Accessories.


  1. Military Hire

This site connects veterans and military personnel with job opportunities in a variety of industries, including Ordnance and Accessories. It features job listings, career advice, and resources for job seekers.


  1. ASME Job Board

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) provides a job board for those in Mechanical Engineering, including those working in Ordnance and Accessories. It offers opportunities for job seekers looking for high-paying positions in this industry.


  1. Corporate Gray

This site is dedicated to helping veterans and transitioning military personnel find jobs, including those in the Ordnance and Accessories industry. They offer job fairs, a job board, and career advice to help job seekers connect with top employers.

What are the Top-Level Skills Needed to Get a High Paying Job in Ordnance and Accessories?

There are several skills ordnance and accessories workers need. By possessing these essential skills, individuals can position themselves for high-paying careers in the Ordnance and Accessories industry.

5 top-level skills required to get a high paying job in Ordnance and Accessories:


  1. Technical expertise

The ability to understand complex technical information and equipment is a must-have skill in the Ordnance and Accessories industry. This includes knowledge of equipment, systems, and processes used in the industry. Possessing technical expertise helps individuals troubleshoot problems and provide solutions, making them a valuable asset to any company.


  1. Attention to detail

In Ordnance and Accessories, precision is key. The ability to pay attention to detail and produce accurate work is essential. Whether it’s assembling a piece of equipment or analyzing data, even the slightest error can have serious consequences. Employers value individuals who have a keen eye for detail and can produce high-quality work.


  1. Analytical thinking

Analytical thinking involves the ability to collect and analyze data to make informed decisions. Individuals who possess this skill can identify patterns, make connections, and draw conclusions from complex data sets. In Ordnance and Accessories, this skill is particularly important when it comes to designing, testing, and evaluating equipment and systems.


  1. Communication

Effective communication is critical in the Ordnance and Accessories industry. Professionals must be able to communicate complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Additionally, they must be able to work effectively in teams and collaborate with colleagues to solve problems and achieve goals.


  1. Adaptability

The Ordnance and Accessories industry is constantly evolving. New technologies, processes, and regulations are regularly introduced, which means that individuals in the industry must be able to adapt quickly to change. Those who possess this skill are valuable because they can take on new challenges and learn new skills as needed.

Top 10 Companies with the Highest-Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories

  1. Lockheed Martin
  2. BAE Systems
  3. General Dynamics
  4. Northrop Grumman
  5. Raytheon Technologies
  6. L3Harris Technologies
  7. Honeywell
  8. Jacobs Engineering
  9. SAIC
  10. Oshkosh Corporation

Table providing more details on the top 10 companies in Ordnance and Accessories:

S/NCompany NameSize (No. of employees)Highest Paying Job TitleSalary
1Lockheed Martin110,000+Senior Ordnance Engineer$139,000
2BAE Systems85,000+Senior Principal Systems Engineer$135,000
3General Dynamics102,900+Senior Systems Engineer$131,000
4Northrop Grumman90,000+Senior Principal Engineer$127,000
5Raytheon Technologies181,000+Senior Principal Systems Engineer$123,000
6L3Harris Technologies50,000+Senior Systems Engineer$120,000
7Honeywell113,000+Senior Project Engineer$116,000
8Jacobs Engineering55,000+Senior Engineering Manager$115,000
9SAIC26,000+Senior Systems Engineer$113,000
10Oshkosh Corporation15,000+Senior Mechanical Engineer$112,000

What are the Factors Determining an Employee’s Salary in the Ordnance and Accessories Sector?

In the Ordnance and Accessories sector, salaries can vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding these factors can help both employees and employers determine fair compensation and ensure that everyone is getting paid what they deserve.

5 key factors that determine an employee’s salary in the Ordnance and Accessories sector:


  1. Level of experience

One of the most important factors that determine an employee’s salary in the Ordnance and Accessories industry is their level of experience. Typically, the more experience an employee has in a particular field, the higher their salary will be. This is because experienced employees bring valuable skills and knowledge to the table that can help companies be more successful.


  1. Education and certification

Another factor that can impact an employee’s salary in the Ordnance and Accessories sector is their level of education and certification. Employees who have advanced degrees or specialized certifications in their field may be eligible for higher pay. This is because they have demonstrated a higher level of knowledge and expertise in their field.


  1. Job responsibilities

The responsibilities of a particular job can also have a significant impact on an employee’s salary. Jobs that require a higher level of skill or experience may be compensated at a higher rate. Additionally, employees who take on more responsibility or manage larger teams may be eligible for higher salaries.


  1. Industry demand

The demand for certain skills or job roles within the Ordnance and Accessories industry can also impact employee salaries. If there is a high demand for employees with a particular set of skills, companies may offer higher salaries to attract and retain top talent. Conversely, if there is a surplus of employees with a particular skill set, salaries may be lower.


  1. Company size and location

Finally, the size and location of a company can also impact an employee’s salary in the Ordnance and Accessories sector. Larger companies may offer higher salaries than smaller companies, as they have more resources and revenue to invest in employee compensation. Additionally, the location of a company can also impact salaries, as some regions may have a higher cost of living or higher demand for certain skills.

Conclusion: 20 Best Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories

The Ordnance and Accessories industry offers some of the best paying jobs in the market, with opportunities for growth and development. It is a lucrative field with a range of high paying jobs for skilled and qualified professionals.

FAQs: 20 Best-Paying Jobs in Ordnance and Accessories

Which job is the best paying in Ordnance and Accessories?

The best paying jobs in the Ordnance and Accessories industry include Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Ballistics Experts.

Which country is best for Ordnance and Accessories jobs?

Countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom are known for having a strong presence in the Ordnance and Accessories industry and offering high paying job opportunities.