What is a weapons engineer and how to become one

A weapons engineer is an individual who designs, develops, tests, and manages weapons, as well as weapons systems. They mostly either work for the federal government or for private military contractors, such as Lockheed Martin.

Weapons engineers can work in many different specific areas, like mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, nuclear engineering, aerospace engineering, or chemical engineering. Their weapons projects may be focused solely on one field of engineering or be multifaceted.

All weapons engineers must have extensive knowledge about weapons, defense systems, and regulations regarding weapons. They often collaborate with industry-specific officials or members of the United States military.

They work alongside other engineers and also manufacturing employees and officials. Here they also facilitate the proper manufacturing processes for their designs and systems and make sure they follow the proper quality control and safety procedures.

Weapons engineers must also expertly practice discretion. Sometimes they will work on projects that are deemed to be highly classified, top secret, or an even higher level of secret classification.

Weapons engineers also utilize many different skills in their profession, such as creativity, analysis, strategy, math, time management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, as well as many other industry-specific soft skills.

To become a weapons engineer, you must obtain at least a bachelor's degree in an engineering field. Some weapons engineers also have advanced degrees in the field of engineering, as well as weapons knowledge and experience, and proficiency with CAD software. Many employers prefer candidates with long professional careers in related engineering before they can be considered eligible for this position.