Home / Federal careers / WG-6517
Explosives Test Operating
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.
What WG-6517 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-6517, as written.
Explosives Test Operating
Federal Wage System Position
Work Performed
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.
Physical Effort
: The physical effort required at the
Working Conditions
experienced at the grade 10 level are similar to those described at the
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-6517
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.
Typical duties
- Perform explosives test operating 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-6517
What is an Explosives Test Operating worker?
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.
How much does a federal Explosives Test Operating worker make?
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.
What are the requirements for WG-6517 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-6517?
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.
What is the career progression for Explosives Test Operating?
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.
How do I apply for WG-6517 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to apply for WG-6517?
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.