Overview

Special forces weapons sergeants are the weapons specialists. They’re capable of operating and maintaining a wide variety of U.S., allied and other foreign weaponry.

Job Duties

• Go behind enemy lines to recruit, train and equip friendly forces for guerrilla raids
  
• Carry out demolition raids against enemy military targets
  
• Employ warfare tactics and techniques in infantry operations
  
• Maintain proficiency with all foreign high-density light and heavy weapons
  
• Read, interpret and prepare combat orders
  

Requirements

Special operations forces have very demanding physical requirements. Good eyesight, night vision and physical conditioning are required to reach mission objectives via parachute, land or water. Excellent hand-eye coordination is also required to detonate or deactivate explosives.

In most instances, special forces weapons sergeants are required to be qualified divers, parachutists and endurance runners.

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Training

Due to the wide variety of missions, special operations weapons sergeants are trained swimmers, paratroopers and survival experts, as well as trained in many forms of combat. Training for the special forces weapons sergeant consists of 43 weeks of formal classroom training and practice exercises.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Physical conditioning, parachuting, swimming and scuba diving
  
• Using land warfare weapons and communications devices
  
• Handling and using explosives
  
• Bomb and mine disposal

Helpful Skills

• Ability to work as a team member
  
• Readiness to accept a challenge and face danger
  
• Ability to stay in top physical condition
  
• Interest in weapons and artillery
  
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

As a special forces weapons sergeant, you’re trained to defend against dangerous forces. The skills you acquire during your training as a special forces weapons sergeant will most certainly prepare you for a career in law enforcement.

The extensive leadership training you’ll receive will enable you to move directly into practically any civilian management position in the corporate world.