JOB TITLE: GUNSMITH

JOB CODE: 93300

DEFINITION: This is skilled journey level work in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of firearms.

An employee in this job inspects, maintains, and repairs handguns, rifles, shotguns, and other types of firearms used by the Pennsylvania State Police. Work involves troubleshooting problems associated with firearms and components; performing necessary repairs, adjustments, and part replacements; conducting test firing; and maintaining inspection, assignment, and maintenance records. Work may also involve restoring agency firearms, repairing firearms recovered as criminal evidence, and participating in the procurement and inspection of new firearms. An important aspect of this work involves ensuring the operability of agency firearms for law enforcement work and for officer and public safety. Work is performed with considerable independence and requires using judgment regarding the need for and method of maintenance and repair. Work is reviewed by a supervisor for results obtained.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.):

• Receives and interprets officers’ descriptions of firearm performance problems.

• Diagnoses mechanical problems by testing the operation of component parts and interpreting maintenance instructions, diagrams, and manufacturer specifications.

• Disassembles, repairs, adjusts, modifies, lubricates, installs, and assembles component parts such as trigger mechanisms, firing pins, action slides, bolt assemblies, sights, barrels, stocks, and safety mechanisms.

• Test fires new and repaired firearms to ensure safety, accuracy, and proper operation.

• Restores firearms by removing corrosion and re-bluing metal parts.

• Repairs inoperable firearms recovered as criminal evidence to ensure forensic staff can fully perform evidence analysis.

• Inspects agency firearms used in officer-involved shooting incidents to ensure the firearms have not been altered from their issued condition.

• Advises on the functionality and effectiveness of firearms considered for purchase.

• Inspects new firearms upon receipt for compliance with specifications.

• Unloads ammunition from confiscated, recovered, and surrendered firearms prior to destruction.

• Maintains firearm records that document identifying characteristics, issuance, and inspection and maintenance work performed.

• Travels to field sites to perform firearms maintenance and repair.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the operation of firearms and their component parts.

• Knowledge of the methods, materials, tools, and practices of the gunsmith trade.

• Knowledge of firearm hazards and safety precautions.

• Ability to interpret maintenance instructions, diagrams, and manufacturer specifications.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities):

• Two years of experience in the maintenance and repair of firearms;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training.