Munitions Technician at DynCorp International
Former airman still defends America on the front lines as an ammo specialist with DynCorp.
by Warren Duffie
As a munitions technician serving at a military installation in Doha, Qatar, Jeff Erle says there’s no difference between his civilian and Air Force jobs. Well … maybe one difference.
“I get to dress more comfortably,” jokes Erle , a former technical sergeant. “It gets hot out here, and I’m glad I don’t have to wear a stifling uniform anymore.”
Wardrobe aside, Erle still uses the skills he developed as an Air Force munitions specialist. Based at Al Udeid Air Base – home of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing – he helps oversee the handling, storage, and shipping of armaments throughout a massive network stretching from Afghanistan and Iraq to Korea and the Horn of Africa. Though Erle is forbidden from revealing the specific munitions under his watch, he does hint that they encompass “a wide variety – pretty much everything in the [Department of Defense’s] inventory.”
Erle, 33, is also responsible for operating the Al Udeid’s Combat Ammunition System (CAS) … a LINUX- and Web-based system that tracks and accounts for munitions entering and leaving the installation.
“In my job, I utilize every aspect of my skill set from the Air Force,” he says. “Having worked in munitions, I have a thorough knowledge of how the Air Force works and what its munitions needs are.”
A “Fantastic Place for Military Veterans”
Erle works for DynCorp International (DI) — a staffing company that provides specialized mission-critical technical services, mostly to military institutions and civilian government agencies. The company operates major programs in aviation services and operations, law enforcement training and support, security services, facility operations, and logistics and contingency support. Headquartered in Falls Church, Va., DynCorp International has approximately 14,000 employees worldwide.
“This is a fantastic place for military veterans,” Erle says. “If you have a technical background, there will most likely be a position that’s perfect for you. Also, there’s not much of a learning curve needed. Right away, I felt right at home.”
In Uniform
A native of Tallahassee, Fla., Erle enlisted in the Air Force in 1992 – “I always wanted to be in the military, to be around airplanes.”
After basic training at Lackland Air Force Base,Texas he attended munitions school at Lowry Air Force Base in Colorado. During his career, Erle served in Utah, Florida, South Korea, Europe, Egypt, and Japan.
The Transition
Although his military tenure was filled with adventure and travel, Erle was trying to earn a bachelor’s degree in technical management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The constant deployments were making this more and more difficult.
That’s why he got out in 2004. After attending several transition and résumé-writing classes, Erle found a job as a duty officer with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Within a year – after earning his degree – he realized he missed the military and wanted a job involving more interaction with the armed forces. An online search led him to the munitions position with DI, a company he respected from his days in uniform. He was hired within a few months.
Great Benefits and Opportunities for Travel
“I can’t tell you how great it is to work for DynCorp International,” Erle says. “For one thing, the pay and benefits are outstanding. You also receive 25 days of paid annual vacation, with round-trip transportation. Also, because DI is a staffing company, you’re only required to serve a year-long contract. After a year, you can choose to stay at a job or go to one at another location.”
DynCorp International also provides first-class living arrangements, especially for its overseas employees. Erle lives in a luxurious 21-story apartment complex in glittering downtown Doha – complete with a spa, Jacuzzi and swimming pool. Finally, there’s the travel, Erle’s favorite perk. Years of deployments have made him an adventurer and culture buff. DI has proved to be an ideal employer.
“I enjoy living in the Middle East,” he says. “It’s a fascinating culture and not far from Europe and Asia. If you’re tired of your regular scene and want to see the world, I recommend looking into DynCorp International.”
Erle’s Advice
Think hard before leaving the military. “Make sure you want to do it and that you’ve considered how it will affect the well-being of you and your family.”
Consider all career options. “Don’t lock yourself into one field. Think about what you’re good at and what your passions are. Then try to find a job that reflects those.”