How to Be Military Ordnance Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

The role of a Military Ordnance Technician is an important one, as they are responsible for ensuring the proper maintenance and operation of a wide range of military weaponry. This requires extensive knowledge of the various pieces of equipment and their associated components. When functioning properly, these weapons can provide a crucial advantage in a conflict.

If not, they can have disastrous consequences. As such, the work of these technicians is essential in keeping military forces running efficiently and effectively. Their duties also extend to the analysis of ordnance data and the development of preventive maintenance plans.

This helps to ensure that all military armaments are in peak condition and ready for deployment when needed.

Steps How to Become

  1. Meet the basic requirements. To become a military ordnance technician, you must be a U. S. citizen and at least 18 years old. You must also have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  2. Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This is a series of tests used by the military to determine if you are qualified for certain jobs.
  3. Enlist in the military. Depending on the branch you choose, you may have to attend basic training before beginning your specialized training as an ordnance technician.
  4. Complete ordnance technician training. Once you have enlisted, you will attend technical training schools where you will learn the necessary skills to become an ordnance technician.
  5. Get certified. After completing your training, you will have to pass a certification exam in order to become a certified military ordnance technician.
  6. Get promoted and stay current. In order to advance in your career, you will need to stay current on all new developments in the field and get promoted when possible.

Military Ordnance Technicians are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and storage of weapons, ammunition, and other military ordnance. Their duties involve ensuring that these items are safe, reliable, and capable of performing as intended. To be successful in this role, they must have a deep understanding of these items and be able to identify potential safety risks associated with them.

they must be able to perform maintenance tasks on a variety of weapons and ordnance, ranging from simple repairs to complex overhauls. This requires thorough technical knowledge and a high attention to detail. the work of Military Ordnance Technicians is vital to keeping troops safe and ensuring the reliability of weapons and other equipment used in the field.

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Job Description

  1. Inspect and test ordnance equipment to ensure proper operation.
  2. Troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions in ordnance systems.
  3. Maintain and repair ordnance equipment, including weapons and ammunition.
  4. Conduct safety inspections of weapons, ammunition, and ordnance systems.
  5. Identify and purchase spare parts and supplies to support operations.
  6. Perform routine maintenance on ordnance equipment.
  7. Create and maintain records of ordnance maintenance and repairs.
  8. Train personnel on the proper operation and maintenance of ordnance systems.
  9. Prepare and package ordnance for transport and shipment.
  10. Supervise personnel in the handling, storage, and disposal of ordnance materials.

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Knowledge of military ordinance systems and components
  2. Ability to inspect and maintain military ordinance systems
  3. Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions in military ordinance systems
  4. Proficiency in using various hand tools, power tools and test equipment for maintenance and repair
  5. Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and documentation
  6. Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols related to military ordinance systems
  7. Knowledge of basic mathematics and computer skills
  8. Ability to work as part of a team
  9. Ability to use good judgment and problem-solving skills
  10. Ability to lift heavy objects and work in awkward positions

Being an effective military ordnance technician requires a combination of technical and problem-solving skills. The technician must have the ability to interpret blueprints, identify technical problems, and apply the appropriate solutions. They must be knowledgeable in the operation, maintenance, and repair of a variety of weapon systems.

To be successful in this role, the technician must be able to troubleshoot issues, as well as be familiar with the components of the weapon systems, such as ammunition, explosives, propellants, and other ordnance materials. In addition, they must possess a working knowledge of safety procedures, quality control standards, and military regulations. The job requires good communication skills for conveying technical information to other personnel and providing training to military personnel.

Attention to detail and an ability to work independently are also essential skills. Having the right combination of these skills is key to being successful in a military ordnance technician role.

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Frequent Interview Questions

  • What experience do you have working with military ordnance and explosives?
  • How do you ensure safety when working with military ordnance and explosives?
  • Describe a time when you identified an issue with military ordnance or explosives and how you resolved it.
  • How familiar are you with the different types of military ordnance?
  • What is your approach to troubleshooting and diagnosing issues with military ordnance and explosives?
  • What methods do you use for testing and inspecting military ordnance?
  • Describe a time when you had to make a quick decision regarding a safety or security issue related to military ordnance or explosives.
  • How do you keep up with changing regulations and protocols related to military ordnance?
  • How do you ensure accuracy when handling military ordnance and explosives?
  • What strategies do you use to ensure proper maintenance and storage of military ordnance and explosives?

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Wrenches. A type of tool used for tightening, loosening, and turning objects. (eg: adjustable wrench)
  2. Screwdrivers. A tool used for turning screws, bolts, and other fasteners. (eg: Phillips head screwdriver)
  3. Socket Sets. A set of tools used for driving nuts and bolts. (eg: metric socket set)
  4. Pliers. A tool used for gripping, cutting, and bending objects. (eg: needle nose pliers)
  5. Hammers. A tool used for driving nails, chisels, and other objects into surfaces. (eg: claw hammer)
  6. Hex Keys. A small tool used for tightening and loosening hex screws or bolts. (eg: Allen key)
  7. Calipers. A precision measuring instrument used for measuring dimensions and distances. (eg: digital calipers)
  8. Soldering Iron. A tool used to join metal components together by melting a lead-tin alloy at the joint. (eg: electric soldering iron)
  9. Torque Wrench. A tool used to apply a specific amount of torque to fasteners and other objects. (eg: click-type torque wrench)
  10. Drill Press. A tool used for making holes in wood, metal, and other materials. (eg: bench-top drill press)

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. National Association of Ordnance Technicians (NAOT)
  2. Association of the United States Army (AUSA)
  3. American Ordnance Association (AOA)
  4. National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA)
  5. International Society of Explosive Engineers (ISEE)
  6. Surface Navy Association (SNA)
  7. Society of Ammunition and Explosives Engineers (SAEE)
  8. Institute of Makers of Explosives (IME)
  9. United States Army Ordnance Corps Regimental Association (USARCA)
  10. The Ordnance Corps Association (OCA)

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Common Important Terms

  1. Ordnance. Military weapons or ammunition, including small arms, artillery, missiles, and other explosives.
  2. Logistics. The management of resources and personnel to ensure the safe and efficient deployment of military personnel and equipment.
  3. Maintenance. The process of inspecting and repairing materiel to ensure proper functioning and keep it in good working order.
  4. Troubleshooting. The process of diagnosing and correcting malfunctions in a system or process.
  5. Calibration. The process of adjusting a system or device to conform to a standard for accuracy and precision.
  6. Safety Procedures. Procedures designed to protect personnel or equipment from harm or damage.
  7. Technical Writing. The process of writing documents that explain complex topics in an easy-to-understand manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Military Ordnance Technician?

A Military Ordnance Technician is a specialized military job that is responsible for the maintenance, inspection, testing, and repair of weapons, ammunition, and other ordnance equipment.

What qualifications are needed to become a Military Ordnance Technician?

To become a Military Ordnance Technician, applicants must have good physical fitness, be able to pass a background check, and have a high school diploma or GED. They must also possess basic knowledge of mechanical principles, electrical and electronics theory, mathematics, and be able to read and interpret technical manuals.

What type of training is required to become a Military Ordnance Technician?

To become a Military Ordnance Technician, applicants must complete basic military training and technical school which typically lasts 8-10 weeks. They will then receive additional on-the-job training in the supervision and operation of ordnance equipment.

What is the job outlook for Military Ordnance Technicians?

The job outlook for Military Ordnance Technicians is good as the demand for these professionals is expected to continue to grow over the next several years. As the military continues to modernize its weapons and technology, the need for these technicians will remain in high demand.

What salary can a Military Ordnance Technician expect to earn?

The salary for a Military Ordnance Technician varies depending on experience and rank. However, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for this profession is around $55,000 per year.

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