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This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in the functional testing of explosives, pyrotechnics, propellant grains, and ammunition to discover characteristics such as dispersion patterns, velocity, and range. This requires knowledge of explosives, explosive devices, and environmental conditioning and functional testing practices.
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-6517
This standard covers nonsupervisory work involved in the functional testing of explosives, pyrotechnics, propellant grains, and ammunition to discover characteristics such as dispersion patterns, velocity, and range. This requires knowledge of explosives, explosive devices, and environmental conditioning and functional testing practices.
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experienced at the grade 10 level are similar to those described at the
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal explosives test operating position
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Typical grades for Federal Wage System positions
An Explosives Test Operating worker (WG-6517) performs functional testing of explosives, pyrotechnics, propellant grains, and ammunition to determine characteristics like dispersion patterns, velocity, and range. Work involves environmental conditioning, test setup, data collection, and ensuring munitions meet performance specifications. This technical position combines explosives handling with quality assurance testing.
Federal Explosives Test Operating workers receive WG pay with hazardous duty differentials (typically 8-15% additional). WG-6517 positions range from WG-8 to WG-11 based on test complexity and independence. Technical specialists conducting advanced ballistic testing earn higher rates. Check DCPAS wage schedules for locality pay plus applicable hazard differentials.
WG-6517 positions require knowledge of explosives, explosive devices, environmental conditioning procedures, and functional testing practices. Candidates need understanding of test protocols, data collection methods, and safety procedures. Higher grades require ability to set up complex test scenarios and interpret results. Technical aptitude for precision measurement and documentation is essential.
Yes, military ordnance testing and quality assurance experience transfers well to WG-6517. Army 89B, Navy FC/GM ratings, Air Force 2W0X1, and any MOS involving munitions inspection or testing provides relevant background. Document your experience with ammunition lot testing, proof firing, or weapons system testing on your federal resume.
Explosives Test Operating workers advance from WG-8 through WG-11 based on technical proficiency and test complexity. Senior testers conduct independent evaluations on critical munitions. Career paths include WG-6502 Explosives Operating, quality assurance inspection, or supervisory (WS) positions. Technical certifications in testing methodologies enhance advancement opportunities.
Search USAJOBS for "Explosives Test Operating" or "6517" to find positions at proving grounds, test facilities, and ammunition plants. These positions require security clearances and meticulous attention to safety. Emphasize your explosives experience, quality assurance background, and technical aptitude for data collection and analysis. Veterans' preference applies.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.