Home / Military to civilian jobs / Marines / 2111
That is Marines MOS 2111. Civilian jobs, federal paths, and how the work reads on a resume.
What is in this guide
What the translation looks like
How it reads in service
Diagnosed and repaired malfunctions on M4, M240, M249, and M2 weapons systems using technical manuals and precision gauging tools
How a hiring manager reads it
Performed systematic mechanical diagnostics on precision electromechanical systems, identifying root causes through measurement-based testing and resolving failures per manufacturer specifications
Roles this background maps to
Median pay, BLS OEWS May 2024
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Marine Corps MOS 2111 — Small Arms Repairer/Technician — is the Marine responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining every infantry small arm in the unit's armory. That includes the M16A4/M4 service rifle, M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle, M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, M240 medium machine gun, M2 .50 caliber heavy machine gun, M9/M18 service pistols, and associated optics like the ACOG (RCO), PEQ-16 laser aiming device, and AN/PVS-14 night vision devices.
2111s perform armorer-level and intermediate-level maintenance. That means headspace and timing gauges, go/no-go gauges, precision measurement tools, bore scopes, and detailed technical manual troubleshooting. They diagnose and repair malfunctions, replace worn components, perform serviceability inspections, and maintain weapons modification records. Training runs through the Ordnance Maintenance School at MCCES Twentynine Palms, CA, with some courses held at Camp Lejeune, NC.
Beyond the bench work, 2111s manage armory operations: weapons accountability, serial number tracking, inventory reconciliation, arms room security, and weapons issue/receipt procedures. They deploy everywhere Marines go — from battalion armories at Camp Pendleton to forward operating bases. Some 2111s support MARSOC or Marine Raider units, maintaining specialized weapons and suppressors.
What makes 2111s valuable to civilian employers is the combination of precision mechanical skills, quality control discipline, inventory management under strict accountability standards, and the ability to follow detailed technical procedures where small errors have serious consequences. These skills translate well beyond firearms — into manufacturing, quality assurance, precision machining, and federal law enforcement support.
Small Arms Repairers translate to federal armory and weapons-credentialed civilian roles — DoD arsenals, federal LE armorer positions, and major defense contractor weapons programs actively recruit 2111s. From the federal hiring side, the credentialed armorer background plus clearance is the package. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
The number that decides most of this: how does civilian pay compare to what the paycheck looks like now?
Marines mid-career
$58K to $82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp: base plus BAH, BAS and the tax advantage.
Civilian Small Arms Repairer/Technician
$46K to $67K
BLS median across the direct-match civilian roles on this page.
Federal, GS-9 to GS-13
$58K to $120K
1 matching GS series, plus locality pay and step increases.
About 21% lower on average
Civilian base pay for Small Arms Repairer/Technicians runs about $15K below mid-career enlisted total comp, though housing comes out of that number on the military side too.
Military comp is approximate and moves with location and dependents. Civilian is the BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. The real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step and overtime.
The most direct civilian path for a 2111 is gunsmithing — working as a firearms repair technician at gun shops, ranges, or manufacturers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual wage for Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other (SOC 49-9069) — the closest BLS category covering gunsmiths — is $46,960. Be honest with yourself about this number. Gunsmithing is rewarding work, but the pay is modest compared to what your mechanical skills can earn in other industries.
Firearms manufacturers pay better than independent gun shops. Companies like SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, FN America, Beretta USA, and Sturm Ruger hire production technicians, quality inspectors, and armorer-level repair techs. Manufacturing Technician roles in firearms production typically fall under BLS category Machinists (SOC 51-4041), with a median wage of $50,840 (May 2024). Quality Control Inspectors (SOC 51-9061) earn a median of $46,300, but senior QC roles at defense and firearms manufacturers push into the $55,000–$70,000 range.
The higher-paying path leverages your precision skills outside firearms. Precision Machinists earn a median of $50,840 (BLS May 2024), with CNC machinists in aerospace and medical device manufacturing earning $60,000–$80,000+. Industrial Machinery Mechanics (SOC 49-9041) earn a median of $62,060 — and your troubleshooting, measurement, and mechanical repair skills transfer directly. Defense contractors like General Dynamics, L3Harris, and Raytheon hire weapons maintenance technicians for government contracts at military installations, often paying $50,000–$70,000 with benefits.
Bottom line: if firearms are your passion, gunsmithing and manufacturer roles get you there, but the ceiling is lower. If you want to maximize your earning potential, apply those same precision mechanical skills to manufacturing, machining, or industrial maintenance — the pay jump is significant.
| Civilian job title | Industry | BLS median salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gunsmith / Firearms Repair TechnicianO*NET 49-9069.00 | Firearms / Sporting Goods | $46,960 | About as fast as average | strong |
| Firearms Manufacturing TechnicianO*NET 51-4041.00 | Firearms Manufacturing | $50,840 | Slower than average (-3%) | strong |
| Quality Control InspectorO*NET 51-9061.00 | Manufacturing / Defense | $46,300 | About as fast as average | strong |
| Precision Machinist / CNC MachinistO*NET 51-4041.00 | Aerospace / Medical / Manufacturing | $50,840 | Slower than average (-3%) | strong |
| Industrial Machinery MechanicO*NET 49-9041.00 | Manufacturing / Energy / Utilities | $62,060 | Much faster than average (16%) | moderate |
| Defense Contractor Weapons TechnicianO*NET 49-9069.00 | Defense / Government Contracting | $55,000 | About as fast as average | strong |
| Mechanical TechnicianO*NET 49-9041.00 | Manufacturing / Maintenance | $62,060 | Much faster than average (16%) | moderate |
| Manufacturing Production SupervisorO*NET 51-1011.00 | Manufacturing | $66,560 | About as fast as average | moderate |
Major firearms manufacturer in Newington, NH. Produces the M17/M18 service pistol for the U.S. military. Hires production technicians, quality inspectors, and armorer-level techs.
Springfield, MA-based manufacturer. Production, quality control, and warranty repair roles for former armorers.
Columbia, SC facility produces the M249, M240, and M16/M4 for military contracts. Direct match for 2111 weapons knowledge.
Multiple facilities (Southport CT, Newport NH, Prescott AZ, Mayodan NC). Manufacturing technician and quality roles.
Gallatin, TN facility. Former M9 producer. Production, quality inspection, and armorer certification roles.
Weapons systems, ammunition, and ordnance manufacturing. Defense contractor roles for weapons maintenance and quality assurance.
Defense electronics and weapons systems integration. Hires mechanical technicians for weapons-related programs.
Government-owned manufacturing arsenal in Illinois. WG-6610 Small Arms Mechanic and ordnance production roles.
Major small arms overhaul and repair depot in Alabama. WG-6610 and WG-6641 positions for weapons maintenance.
Depot-level maintenance for Marine Corps weapons and equipment in Georgia. Direct match for 2111 experience.
Quality assurance specialists who inspect weapons and equipment produced by defense contractors. GS-1910 series.
Firearms technology branch, inspection specialists, and criminal investigators. Weapons technical knowledge is a strong asset.
Manages the military supply chain including spare parts for weapons systems. Logistics and supply roles for former 2111s.
Major defense contractor. Mechanical technician and quality assurance roles across weapons and sensor programs.
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Federal employment is a strong path for 2111s, especially if you want to stay close to weapons work. The most direct match is the WG-6610 (Small Arms Mechanic) series — these are wage-grade positions at military depots, arsenals, and installations where you perform essentially the same work you did in uniform. Rock Island Arsenal (IL), Anniston Army Depot (AL), Watervliet Arsenal (NY), and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany (GA) all employ WG-6610 mechanics.
The WG-6641 (Ordnance Equipment Mechanic) series covers crew-served weapons and heavier ordnance systems. If you worked on M2s, MK19s, or TOW systems, these positions are a direct fit. Both WG-6610 and WG-6641 positions value your armorer credentials and maintenance experience immediately — no translation needed.
Beyond direct weapons work, 2111 skills map to a wide range of GS series. Quality Assurance Specialists (GS-1910) at DCMA (Defense Contract Management Agency) inspect weapons and equipment produced by defense contractors — your knowledge of weapons specifications and serviceability standards is exactly what they need. GS-0301 (Miscellaneous Administration), GS-0340 (Program Management), and GS-0343 (Management Analyst) positions at DoD agencies value your logistics and program experience.
Law enforcement and security paths include GS-0083 (Police) for base security and federal law enforcement, GS-0080 (Security Administration) for physical security and antiterrorism programs, and GS-1712 (Training Instruction) for firearms instructor positions at federal law enforcement training centers like FLETC. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) hires GS-1801 (Inspection) specialists and GS-1811 (Criminal Investigation) agents — your weapons knowledge gives you a technical edge in firearms-related investigations.
Additional federal paths: GS-0201 (Human Resources) for recruitment at military installations, GS-1101 (General Business & Industry) at DLA for supply chain roles, GS-0346 (Logistics Management) for weapons logistics, GS-0560 (Budget Analysis) at ordnance depots, GS-1102 (Contracting) for weapons procurement, and GS-2210 (IT Management) if you pivot into weapons tracking database systems. Explore more federal job series for veterans.
Veterans' Preference gives you 5 or 10 additional points on federal hiring assessments. Start building your federal resume early — build your federal resume here. Federal resumes are 2 pages max and require specific formatting that differs from private sector resumes.
| Series | Federal job title | Typical grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-0802 | Engineering Technician | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 4 of 5 | View details |
Federal raters match your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement. BMR writes the federal format for any GS series above, with the hours per week and supervisor detail a rater looks for.
Free to start. Federal and private sector formats included.
Not everyone stays in a related field. These paths run on the transferable half of the job: leadership, risk, logistics, planning.
Your entire job as a 2111 was inspecting, measuring, and determining whether equipment met specifications. QC inspectors do exactly this across every manufacturing industry — not just firearms. Your comfort with gauges, calipers, and pass/fail criteria translates immediately.
Transfers: Precision measurement, Inspection procedures, Quality documentation, Deficiency identification, Standards compliance.
How to get there: ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) certification strengthens your candidacy. Many manufacturing employers accept military inspection experience directly. Defense contractors and aerospace companies value the documentation rigor.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · About as fast as average (2%)
You troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair mechanical systems following technical manuals. Industrial machinery mechanics do the same thing — the systems are just bigger. The methodology is identical: isolate the malfunction, test, measure, replace components, verify function.
Transfers: Mechanical troubleshooting, Precision measurement, Preventive maintenance, Technical manual compliance, Parts management.
How to get there: Many employers hire directly based on mechanical experience. CMRT certification from SMRP adds credibility. Strong growth outlook (16%) means steady demand. Community college industrial maintenance programs are GI Bill approved.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Much faster than average (16%)
Your precision measurement skills and familiarity with tolerances translate directly to machining. CNC machinists in aerospace and medical device manufacturing earn well above the median — $60,000–$80,000+ — because the precision standards match what you already know.
Transfers: Precision measurement, Blueprint reading, Tolerance verification, Tool operation, Quality control.
How to get there: NIMS Machining Level I certification or community college machinist program. Many programs run 6-12 months and are GI Bill approved. Apprenticeships through Helmets to Hardhats are another path.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Slower than average (-3%)
Armory management is inventory management under extreme accountability standards. You tracked serialized assets, ordered parts through the military supply system, reconciled inventories, and maintained records. Logistics roles use these same skills at a larger scale.
Transfers: Inventory management, Parts requisition, Supply chain tracking, Asset accountability, Systems documentation.
How to get there: APICS CSCP or CLTD certification recommended. Federal logistics roles (GS-0346) accept military supply experience directly. 17% growth projection means strong demand across industries.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Much faster than average (17%)
Senior 2111s who supervised junior Marines in the armory — managing work priorities, training, and production timelines — have direct supervisory experience. Production supervisors manage teams performing repetitive precision work under quality standards, which is your armory environment.
Transfers: Team leadership, Production scheduling, Quality standards enforcement, Safety compliance, Process improvement.
How to get there: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and supervisory experience from military service. Many manufacturers promote experienced technicians into supervisor roles. CMfgT certification from SME adds manufacturing management credibility.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · About as fast as average (1%)
Working with weapons, ammunition, and hazardous materials requires strict safety protocol adherence. Your experience with armory safety procedures, ammunition handling, and HAZMAT awareness is directly applicable to occupational safety roles in manufacturing and government.
Transfers: Safety program compliance, Risk assessment, Hazardous materials handling, Incident investigation, Regulatory documentation.
How to get there: OSHA 30-Hour certification is the entry point. CSP (Certified Safety Professional) from BCSP is the gold standard for career advancement. Federal GS-0018 (Safety Management) positions accept military safety experience.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Faster than average (6%)
ATF and other federal law enforcement agencies need firearms technical expertise. Your ability to identify weapons by type, manufacturer, and modification history — plus your maintenance documentation discipline — is valuable in firearms investigation, evidence analysis, and technical specialist roles.
Transfers: Firearms identification, Weapons technical knowledge, Documentation, Evidence handling procedures, Regulatory compliance.
How to get there: GS-1801 (Inspection) or GS-1712 (Training Instruction) at FLETC for firearms instructors. ATF technical specialists do not always require law enforcement academy — some are civilian technical roles. Veterans' Preference applies.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · About as fast as average (3%)
The skills behind the specialty carry further than the specialty. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the paths above without making it sound like you have never done the work.
Free to start. Try as many angles as you want.
If you're applying to firearms manufacturers, gun shops, or defense contractor armorer positions, your military terminology is the industry standard. They know what headspace and timing means. They know what an armorer-level inspection is. You don't need to translate anything.
This section is for careers outside weapons maintenance and gunsmithing — manufacturing, quality control, industrial maintenance, project management, or any role where the hiring manager has never touched an M4. Below are translations that reframe your 2111 experience into language that resonates in non-firearms industries.
Before, in service
Diagnosed and repaired malfunctions on M4, M240, M249, and M2 weapons systems using technical manuals and precision gauging tools
After, on the resume
Performed systematic mechanical diagnostics on precision electromechanical systems, identifying root causes through measurement-based testing and resolving failures per manufacturer specifications
Before, in service
Performed headspace and timing checks on M2 .50 cal using approved gauging tools per TM specifications
After, on the resume
Conducted precision dimensional inspections using calibrated measurement instruments to verify critical tolerances per engineering specifications, documenting all results in quality control records
Before, in service
Managed armory of 450+ serialized weapons and optics, conducting daily inventory counts and maintaining 100% accountability across 3 company arms rooms
After, on the resume
Managed inventory control system for 450+ high-value serialized assets across 3 locations, maintaining 100% accountability through daily audits and reconciliation with zero discrepancies
Before, in service
Maintained weapons modification records and serial number histories for battalion-level armory, tracking all upgrades, repairs, and parts replacements per Marine Corps order
After, on the resume
Administered configuration management database for 450+ serialized assets, tracking all modifications, component replacements, and maintenance histories per organizational compliance standards
Before, in service
Entered all maintenance actions into MIMMS, including parts usage, man-hours, equipment status, and repair outcomes for battalion-level reporting
After, on the resume
Documented all maintenance activities in computerized maintenance management system (CMMS), including labor hours, parts consumption, and equipment status for organizational performance metrics
Before, in service
Conducted serviceability inspections on small arms per TM 4700-15/1H, determining condition codes and repair requirements for 200+ weapons annually
After, on the resume
Performed quality assurance inspections on 200+ precision mechanical assemblies annually, determining serviceability status against documented standards and generating detailed condition reports with corrective action requirements
Before, in service
Performed all maintenance and repair actions in strict accordance with applicable technical manuals and Marine Corps maintenance bulletins
After, on the resume
Executed all work activities in compliance with standard operating procedures, manufacturer specifications, and regulatory requirements, maintaining full documentation of procedural adherence
Before, in service
Prepared 500+ small arms and crew-served weapons for deployment, coordinating repairs, parts requisitions, and optics installation within 30-day deployment timeline
After, on the resume
Managed production schedule for 500+ precision assemblies within 30-day delivery deadline, coordinating component procurement, repair priorities, and final inspection to achieve 100% on-time readiness
BMR turns your 2111 duties and accomplishments into civilian bullets aimed at the job you are applying for. No manual translation.
Free to start. Tailored to each posting.
Which ones you need depends on where you are headed.
RequiredCost Free (build at bestmilitaryresume.com)Time 1-2 hours
RecommendedCost $25 - $300Time 2-4 days
BeneficialCost $250 - $400 examTime 2-4 months studyGI Bill eligible
RequiredCost $500 - $1,500 (through training program)Time 3-6 monthsGI Bill eligible
RecommendedCost $300 - $500Time 2-4 monthsGI Bill eligible
RecommendedCost $2,000 - $8,000 (program dependent)Time 6-12 monthsGI Bill eligible
BeneficialCost $250 - $400Time 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligible
RecommendedCost $300 - $500 (exam + materials)Time 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligible
RecommendedCost $250 - $400Time 1-2 months studyGI Bill eligible
RequiredCost $150 - $300 per platformTime 1-2 days per course
RecommendedCost $1,000 - $5,000 (program dependent)Time 6-24 months (self-paced)GI Bill eligible
Required for independent workCost $200 for 3 yearsTime Application processing: 60-90 days
Placement decides whether a screener ever sees it. BMR knows where each one ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it.
Free to start. Built around your real certs and clearance.
NRA Armorer Courses: The NRA offers platform-specific armorer courses (Glock, AR-15, SIG, etc.) that credential you for warranty repair work. Your 2111 training covers much of this material, but the NRA certificate is what civilian shops recognize. Courses run 1-2 days, $150-$300 each.
American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI): AGI offers video-based gunsmithing courses from basic to master level. GI Bill approved for some programs. Good option if you want to open your own shop or go beyond armorer-level work into full custom gunsmithing.
NSSF (National Shooting Sports Foundation): The NSSF is the firearms industry trade association. Their career center lists jobs with manufacturers, distributors, and ranges. SHOT Show is the industry's annual event — worth attending for networking if you're serious about staying in firearms.
FFL Requirements: If you want to operate independently, you need a Federal Firearms License. An FFL Type 01 (Dealer/Gunsmith) is the most common for gunsmiths. Application is through ATF, costs $200 for 3 years. Check state and local regulations — some areas have additional requirements.
SkillBridge: Some defense contractors and firearms companies participate in DOD SkillBridge, letting you work civilian jobs during your last 180 days of service while still receiving military pay. Check with your career planner.
Machinist / CNC Apprenticeships: Your precision measurement and mechanical skills translate directly to machinist apprenticeships. Programs through community colleges and trade schools are GI Bill approved. Aerospace and medical device machining pay significantly more than gunsmithing.
Manufacturing Certifications: The Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) from SME and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt from ASQ are valued across manufacturing industries. Both are achievable in 2-4 months of study.
Quality Control Careers: ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) or Certified Quality Technician (CQT) certifications position you for QC roles in any manufacturing environment — not just firearms. Your inspection background gives you a head start.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately. Use the Veterans filter. Key agencies for 2111s: military arsenals, DCMA, DLA, ATF, and FLETC. Build your federal resume here — federal resumes are 2 pages max.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives — completely free for veterans. Also check your local career crosswalk options to explore every path your MOS qualifies you for.
GI Bill for Trade Programs: Don't overlook your GI Bill for machinist programs, manufacturing technology certificates, and industrial maintenance training. Many community college programs are 1-2 years. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify approval before enrolling.
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According to BLS May 2024 data, the median annual wage for Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other (SOC 49-9069) — the closest category covering gunsmiths — is $46,960. Independent gun shop gunsmiths often earn less. Gunsmiths at major manufacturers (SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, FN America) may earn slightly more, but gunsmithing is generally a modest-paying trade compared to other precision mechanical fields.
Yes, significantly. Machinists (SOC 51-4041) earn a median of $50,840, and CNC machinists in aerospace or medical devices earn $60,000–$80,000+. Industrial Machinery Mechanics (SOC 49-9041) earn a median of $62,060. Quality Control Inspectors (SOC 51-9061) start at a median of $46,300, but senior QC roles at defense manufacturers push into $55,000–$70,000. Your 2111 precision skills transfer directly to these higher-paying fields.
If you work for an existing shop or manufacturer, you operate under their FFL — you do not need your own. If you want to work independently or open your own shop, you need an FFL Type 01 (Dealer/Gunsmith), which costs $200 for 3 years through ATF. Some states and localities have additional licensing requirements. You do NOT need an FFL to perform basic cleaning or non-manufacturing maintenance on firearms you personally own.
The highest-paying paths leverage your precision skills outside firearms. Industrial Machinery Mechanics earn a median of $62,060 (BLS May 2024). Manufacturing Production Supervisors earn a median of $66,560. Moving into management, Quality Assurance Managers can earn $80,000–$100,000+. Defense contractor weapons maintenance roles typically pay $50,000–$70,000. Staying purely in gunsmithing caps you around $47,000 median — the broader manufacturing and maintenance fields offer a higher ceiling.
Many 2111s hold a standard National Agency Check (NAC) rather than a Secret or Top Secret clearance. The MOS does not normally require a security clearance. However, 2111s assigned to MARSOC, Marine Raider units, or certain classified programs may hold a Secret clearance. If you do have one, it has real value with defense contractors — do not let it lapse during transition.
Veterans' Preference adds 5 points (honorable discharge) or 10 points (disability rating) to your federal hiring assessment score. You need your DD-214 (Member 4 copy) and SF-15 form for 10-point preference. Direct Hire Authority at some agencies can bypass the normal competitive process entirely. Key tip: VPref is most powerful at GS-11 and below. Start your federal resume at bestmilitaryresume.com — federal resumes follow different formatting rules than private sector.
Yes. Several gunsmithing programs (like AGI and some community college programs) are GI Bill approved. Machinist and CNC training programs at community colleges and trade schools are widely GI Bill approved as well. Manufacturing technology certificates typically run 1-2 years. Always verify current VA approval using the GI Bill Comparison Tool before enrolling — approval status can change.
Your 2111 skills — precision measurement, quality documentation, inventory management, troubleshooting methodology — transfer to many fields beyond firearms. Quality Control Inspector, Industrial Machinery Mechanic, Precision Machinist, Manufacturing Technician, and Logistics Coordinator are all realistic pivots. Federal paths like GS-1910 (Quality Assurance), GS-0346 (Logistics), and GS-1102 (Contracting) are strong options. See the Career Change Paths section above for salary data and entry paths for each.
Firearms manufacturing is concentrated in specific regions. New Hampshire and Massachusetts (SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson), Connecticut (Colt), South Carolina (FN America), Georgia (Glock), and Arizona (Sturm Ruger) are major hubs. Military arsenals and depots — Rock Island (IL), Anniston (AL), Watervliet (NY), and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany (GA) — hire WG-6610 Small Arms Mechanics. For broader manufacturing and machining, any metro area with a manufacturing base works.
Yes — and you should. Start 12 months before your EAS. At 180 days out, you may qualify for DOD SkillBridge to work full-time at a civilian company while still drawing military pay. At minimum: have your resume built 6 months out, start networking on LinkedIn 6 months out, and apply to federal positions 6 months out (federal hiring moves slowly). Use terminal leave as your transition runway. Build your resume for free at bestmilitaryresume.com.
Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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