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Munitions Destroying
This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in the destruction of ammunition, explosives, propellants, and toxic munitions. This work requires a knowledge of demolition procedures, the ability to recognize various types of bulk explosives, and the skill to place munitions and initiating charges.
What WG-6505 pays
Federal Wage System pay is set by local prevailing wage surveys, so it moves with the wage area rather than a national table.
Wage Grade rates are published per wage area rather than nationally, so the number that matters is the one for the installation you are applying to.
Source: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service wage schedules.
Qualification requirements
OPM's standard for WG-6505, as written.
Munitions Destroying
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in the destruction of ammunition, explosives, propellants, and toxic munitions. This work requires a knowledge of demolition procedures, the ability to recognize various types of bulk explosives, and the skill to place munitions and initiating charges.
What this means if you served
- Write the duties, not the billet. OPM credits military experience on the work performed, and does not use rank or pay to judge specialized experience.
- Put the training and certifications you earned in service on the page. They count here.
- Claim your veterans preference on the application. It is not applied for you.
- No positive education requirement here, so qualifying experience can stand in for the education.
How to qualify for WG-6505
1Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
2Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
3Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
4Build Your Federal Resume
Two pages, the same USAJOBS limit that has applied since 27 September 2025. Lead with hands-on trade experience: the tools and equipment you ran, safety training, the projects you finished, and hours worked per week.
5Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
Military jobs that map to this series
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Specialist
Direct match for disposal operations. EOD experience commands premium in this series.
Skills that carry over: Ordnance disposal, Demolition, Destruction procedures, Safety protocols.
Usually opens at: WG-10, WG-11, WG-12.
Ammunition Specialist
Strong match for 89Bs with demilitarization experience. Depot-level experience is valuable.
Skills that carry over: Demilitarization, Munitions disposal, Safety procedures, Destruction operations.
Usually opens at: WG-8, WG-9, WG-10.
Your record can qualify you even when your code is not on this list. The crosswalk is a starting point, not the gate.
Typical duties
- Perform munitions destroying tasks as assigned
- Follow safety procedures and regulations
- Maintain and operate tools and equipment
- Complete work orders and documentation
- Coordinate with team members and supervisors
Key competencies
Ability to follow safety procedures and regulations
Knowledge of tools and equipment for the trade
Skill in performing physical tasks requiring manual dexterity
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to read and interpret instructions and procedures
Words the announcement will use
Use the ones your record actually supports. A rater is matching your experience against the specialized experience statement, and a keyword with nothing behind it does not survive that.
Questions about WG-6505
What is a Munitions Destroying worker?
A Munitions Destroying worker (WG-6505) safely disposes of ammunition, explosives, propellants, and toxic munitions that are obsolete, damaged, or no longer serviceable. Work involves demolition procedures, recognizing various explosive types, and properly placing munitions with initiating charges for controlled destruction. This highly specialized position requires extensive safety training and nerves of steel.
How much does a federal Munitions Destroying worker make?
Federal Munitions Destroying workers receive WG pay rates plus significant hazardous duty differentials (typically 15-25% additional) given the extreme risk involved. WG-6505 positions typically range from WG-8 to WG-11. These are among the highest-paid wage grade positions due to hazard pay. Check DCPAS wage schedules for base rates plus applicable differentials.
What are the requirements for WG-6505 positions?
WG-6505 positions require thorough knowledge of demolition procedures, ability to recognize various bulk explosives, and skill in placing munitions and initiating charges. Prior explosives handling experience is essential. Candidates must pass rigorous safety evaluations and psychological screening. Top Secret security clearance and perfect safety records are mandatory for this high-risk specialty.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-6505?
Military EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) experience is the gold standard for WG-6505 positions. Army 89D, Navy EOD Technicians, Air Force 3E8X1, and Marine Corps 2336 personnel have directly transferable skills. Your military demolition training, live ordnance experience, and documented safety record are exactly what federal munitions destruction facilities need.
What is the career progression for Munitions Destroying?
Munitions Destroying workers advance from WG-8 to WG-11 based on expertise and scope of destruction operations. Senior specialists handle the most complex and dangerous disposal scenarios. Work Leader (WL) positions lead demolition teams. Related opportunities exist in WG-6502 Explosives Operating and safety inspection roles. Perfect safety records are essential for advancement.
How do I apply for WG-6505 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for "Munitions Destroying" or "6505" to find positions at military demolition ranges, ammunition disposal facilities, and ordnance centers. Competition is limited due to specialized requirements. Your military EOD certification, demolition experience, and documented safety record are critical. Veterans' preference applies, and Top Secret clearance is typically required.
Ready to apply for WG-6505?
A rater matches your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement, inside two pages. BMR writes that shape from your own experience: competency headers, real scope, hours per week, and the supervisor detail the rater checks.