ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Atf Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SkyBridge Tactical

Contract Instructor (ATF)

Athens, AL

$18 - $23.25/hr

Act as Subject Matter Expert (SME) Advise ATF leadership on best practices, investigative techniques, and emerging threats within the subject area of expertise. * Support Interagency Collaboration ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAtf Investigator Jobs

Atf Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do atf investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for atf investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do ATF investigators do?

ATF investigators enforce federal laws related to firearms, explosives, arson, alcohol, and tobacco. They conduct investigations, gather evidence, make arrests, and work closely with other law enforcement agencies to combat illegal activities involving these items.

What are ATF Investigators?

ATF Investigators, formally known as Special Agents for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), are federal law enforcement officers responsible for investigating violations of laws related to firearms, explosives, arson, alcohol, and tobacco. They conduct criminal investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work closely with other law enforcement agencies. Their work helps enforce federal regulations, prevent violent crime, and ensure public safety through the regulation and monitoring of controlled substances and weapons.

How much do ATF informants make?

ATF informants typically do not receive a fixed salary; instead, they may be compensated through cash payments, rewards, or reduced sentences depending on their level of cooperation and the case. Compensation varies widely based on the nature of the information provided and the risks involved in their role.

What is the difference between Atf Investigator vs Customs Agent?

AspectAtf InvestigatorCustoms Agent
Required CredentialsFederal law enforcement training, background check, possibly firearms certificationCustoms broker license, knowledge of import/export laws, sometimes background check
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, field investigations, offices, and sometimes on-site inspectionsPorts, border crossings, airports, and customs facilities
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Justice, ATF, federal governmentU.S. Customs and Border Protection, private customs brokerage firms

While both roles involve federal regulations and enforcement, Atf Investigators focus on investigating violations related to firearms, alcohol, tobacco, and explosives, often working in law enforcement settings. Customs Agents primarily handle the inspection and clearance of goods at borders and ports, ensuring compliance with import/export laws. Both roles require specialized credentials and operate within federal agencies, but their daily duties and work environments differ significantly.

How hard is it to get a job at the ATF?

Getting a job as an ATF Investigator involves a competitive process that includes meeting minimum qualifications, passing written exams, background checks, and physical fitness tests. Candidates often need relevant experience, law enforcement or investigative skills, and must complete specialized training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ATF Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an ATF Investigator, you need a strong background in criminal justice or related fields, analytical skills, and federal law enforcement training, often supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with investigative software, firearms databases, and evidence management systems is essential, along with completion of specialized ATF or federal law enforcement training programs. Outstanding attention to detail, ethical judgment, interpersonal skills, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations are crucial soft skills. These competencies are vital for conducting thorough investigations, ensuring legal compliance, and upholding public safety in complex cases involving firearms, explosives, and arson.

How much do ATF investigators make?

ATF investigators typically earn a salary ranging from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. They often require specialized training and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and federal employment perks.

What are some common challenges that ATF Investigators face in their daily work?

ATF Investigators often encounter challenges such as managing complex caseloads, navigating sensitive situations involving firearms or explosives, and working with various law enforcement agencies. The nature of the investigations can be high-pressure and may require travel, irregular hours, and adaptability to rapidly changing circumstances. Building strong communication and collaboration skills is essential, as ATF Investigators frequently coordinate with federal, state, and local partners to ensure thorough and lawful investigations.
More about Atf Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Atf Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Atf Investigator job openings:
What states have the most Atf Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Atf Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Atf Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Atf Investigator jobs are:
Atf Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atf Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Contract Instructor (ATF)

Contract Instructor (ATF)

SkyBridge Tactical

Athens, AL

$18 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Contract Instructor (ATF)
Location: Huntsville, AL
Overview:
SkyBridge Tactical is seeking a Contract Instructor to work with the ATF to teach specific and advanced knowledge, training, experience and education in a variety of topics related to the ATF’s Criminal Enforcement and Training Mission.
Responsibilities:
The Contract Instructor Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Deliver Specialized Training
Conduct classroom, practical, and scenario-based instruction for ATF Special Agents, law enforcement partners, and other federal stakeholders on topics such as firearms trafficking investigations, post-blast analysis, arson investigation, explosives enforcement, and related criminal enforcement techniques.
  • Develop and Maintain Lesson Plans
Prepare, review, and update lesson plans, training materials, and student handouts to ensure compliance with ATF policies, adult learning principles, and current investigative procedures.
  • Ensure Subject Matter Currency
Maintain expertise by attending continuing education courses, staying up to date on current law enforcement trends, technologies, and regulations, and incorporating those updates into training.
  • Evaluate Student Performance
Administer written, oral, and practical exercises; assess student comprehension and provide feedback to support mastery of course material.
  • Support Curriculum Development
Collaborate with ATF program managers and training staff to design new courses or revise existing curriculum to meet emerging investigative needs.
  • Promote Safe and Professional Training Environments
Enforce safety protocols, especially during live-fire or explosives demonstrations, and ensure adherence to ATF and federal safety guidelines.
  • Provide Instructional Expertise
Apply adult learning principles, instructional systems design (ISD) methodology, and effective communication techniques to engage diverse student populations.
  • Document Training Activities
Complete required reports, attendance records, and training documentation in accordance with ATF contract deliverables.
  • Act as Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Advise ATF leadership on best practices, investigative techniques, and emerging threats within the subject area of expertise.
  • Support Interagency Collaboration
Train and coordinate with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to ensure consistency in investigative procedures and information sharing.
Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 10 Years in Law Enforcement Experience
  • Bachelors’ Degree or High School Diploma/GED with additional 5 Years of Experience in Law Enforcement
  • Must have successfully completed a certified instructor training course and/or possess demonstrable experience delivering instruction on complex law enforcement investigative operations within an academic or law enforcement academy classroom setting. This includes the ability to instruct lesson plans, effectively communicate complex and proactive investigative concepts, and engage diverse student populations in a structured training environment
  • Can provide verifying documentation upon request (e.g., certificate of successful completion or attendance) to show that the instructor is maintaining subject matter currency through recent continuing education and attendance at training activities in the subject matter being taught. Subject matter currency may also be validated through the publication of subject matter related articles and research in nationally recognized professional journals or trade magazines
  • Strong editorial and grammar skills and ability to work in fast paced working environment
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous Experience working the ATF
Security Clearance Requirements:
  1. Ability to Pass Background Checks and DOJ/ATF Clearance Checks
Physical Requirements:
  1. No Physical requirements
Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
SkyBridge Tactical is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, any other non-merit factor, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Apply