Gunsmith II (Inspector)

Position Overview

The Gunsmith II (Inspector) performs advanced technical inspections, evaluations, and functional testing of small arms, crew-served weapons, and associated weapon systems to ensure compliance with military technical standards, safety requirements, and operational readiness. This role verifies maintenance quality, identifies deficiencies, and recommends corrective actions while supporting Army and DOD weapons maintenance programs.

Key Responsibilities

Inspection & Quality Assurance

• Conduct detailed inspections of small arms and crew-served weapons including pistols, rifles, carbines, machine guns, grenade launchers, shotguns, sniper systems, and related components.
• Perform acceptance, in-process, and final inspections on weapons undergoing repair, overhaul, or modification.
• Measure, gauge, and assess critical tolerances, headspace, timing, alignment, and wear levels using precision tools.
• Verify compliance with Technical Manuals (TMs), OEM specifications, and Army Quality Assurance standards.
• Identify unsafe conditions and determine weapon serviceability status.

Technical Evaluation & Maintenance Verification

• Validate completed repairs, modifications, and part replacements for correctness and conformity.
• Troubleshoot weapon malfunctions and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
• Conduct functional tests, including test-fire evaluations when authorized.
• Support failure trend analysis and provide recommendations for improving shop processes and maintenance quality.

Documentation & Compliance

• Document inspection results, discrepancies, and corrective actions in required systems (e.g., GCSS-Army or contract-specific maintenance databases).
• Ensure weapons maintenance activities comply with DOD safety, storage, and accountability regulations.
• Maintain accurate inspection logs, technical worksheets, and quality assurance forms.
• Support audits, Command Supply Discipline Program (CSDP) inspections, and weapon readiness assessments.

Safety, Security & Accountability

• Enforce stringent safety standards for handling, storing, transporting, and inspecting weapons.
• Maintain strict accountability for serialized weapons, parts, and controlled items.
• Follow proper procedures for cleaning, lubricating, and preserving weapons during inspection processes.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, hazardous materials, and PPE requirements.

Technical Support & Training

• Provide technical guidance to junior gunsmiths and maintenance personnel.
• Assist in developing inspection checklists, SOPs, and quality processes.
• Conduct training on inspection techniques, gauging, and troubleshooting procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Experience as a Gunsmith, Small Arms Repairer, or equivalent military MOS (e.g., 91F or similar).
• Strong proficiency with small arms and crew-served weapon systems, components, and diagnostics.
• Ability to read and interpret TMs, schematics, blueprints, and weapon maintenance standards.
• Skilled in the use of weapon gauges, precision measuring tools, and inspection equipment.
• Ability to maintain weapons accountability and meet DOD security requirements.
• Must meet physical requirements and be able to work in shop, armory, or field environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior DOD contractor experience in weapons maintenance or inspection.
• Armorer or Gunsmith certification from a recognized institution.
• Experience with GCSS-Army, LMP, or other maintenance information systems.
• Familiarity with foreign weapons systems (if contract requires).

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to lift 40–50 lbs and perform tasks involving standing, bending, and fine motor skills.
• Work in indoor armory, shop environments, and occasionally field conditions.
• Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and adherence to strict safety protocols.