Ammunition Specialist (89B)
- Enlisted
- Active Duty
- Army Reserve
The handling and storage of ammunition must be carried out carefully. Ammunition and weapons, also known as ‘ordnance’ in the Army, are hazardous materials and proper care is required when dealing with them. Ordnance specialists, such as the Ammunition Specialist, transport, store, inspect, prepare and dispose of weapons and ammunition.
Ammunition Specialists are primarily responsible for receiving, storing and issuing conventional ammunition, guided missiles, large rockets and other ammunition related items. Some of your duties as an Ammunition Specialist may include:
- Performing maintenance modification, destruction and demilitarization on ammunition and explosive components
- Operating computer hardware and software/utilities manual records in order to perform stock control and accounting procedures
- Performing ammunition supply stock control and accounting duties using both automated and manual procedures
- Loading nuclear and conventional explosives and ammunition on aircraft
- Inspecting bomb release systems and missile launchers to determine need for repair or destruction
Training:
Job training for an Ammunition Specialist consists of nine weeks of Basic Training, where you’ll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 10 weeks, two days of Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field. You’ll learn:
- Maintenance of nuclear weapons
- Handling, testing and maintenance of missiles and rockets
Helpful Skills:
Helpful attributes include:
- An ability to communicate effectively
- An interest in algebra, chemistry, physics, geometry and trigonometry
- An ability to plan and organize
- An ability to work calmly under stress
Advanced Responsibilities:
Advanced level Ammunition Specialists supervise and train other Soldiers within the same discipline. As an advanced level Ammunition Specialist, you may be involved in assisting in the preparation of transportation of ammunition, ammunition components and explosives.
The Army offers certified apprenticeship programs for some specialties in this occupation.
