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Combatives Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Instructor

Irvine, CA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

S. Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) components in the application and employment of force combatives and irregular warfare (IW) training requirements. Locations: Instructors will be ...

Combatives Instructor information

See salary details

$13

$23

$44

How much do combatives instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for combatives instructor in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for a Combatives Instructor and what are the main responsibilities?

A typical day for a Combatives Instructor involves planning and leading group or individual training sessions, demonstrating techniques, overseeing drills, and ensuring the safety of participants throughout the training. Instructors assess student progress, provide constructive feedback, and tailor instruction to meet varying skill levels, whether working with military, law enforcement, or civilian clients. Additional responsibilities may include maintaining equipment, developing lesson plans, and collaborating with other trainers or program leaders to coordinate comprehensive training curricula. The role often requires adaptability, as sessions can vary between classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and scenario-based exercises.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Combatives Instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combatives Instructor, you need extensive experience in martial arts or self-defense systems, a deep understanding of defensive tactics, and often a background in law enforcement or military service. Certifications such as instructor credentials in specific combatives systems (e.g., Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or Army Combatives) and familiarity with training safety equipment are commonly required. Strong leadership, clear communication, and the ability to motivate and safely instruct diverse groups are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure effective, safe instruction and enable students to confidently apply combative techniques in real-world scenarios.

What is a Combatives Instructor job?

A Combatives Instructor is responsible for teaching hand-to-hand combat techniques, self-defense tactics, and close-quarters battle skills, often to military personnel, law enforcement, or security professionals. They develop training programs, conduct drills, and ensure students learn effective techniques for real-world scenarios. Instructors may have backgrounds in martial arts, military combatives, or defensive tactics. Their role involves both physical demonstration and theoretical instruction to enhance students’ proficiency and confidence in combat situations.

More about Combatives Instructor jobs
Infographic showing various Combatives Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Firearms Instructor

FLORIDA DEFENSIVE TRAINING LLC

Fort Lauderdale, FL

$23 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Firearms Instructor
Company: Florida Defensive Training
Location: South Florida (Miami & Broward)
Position Type: Part-Time / Full-Time (based on qualifications)
About Florida Defensive Training

Florida Defensive Training is a premier training facility focused on the full spectrum of defensive training. Our programs integrate firearms, combatives, medical, legal, and fitness to prepare individuals for real-world situations. We train civilians, security professionals, and law enforcement using a practical, performance-based approach.
Position Overview

We are seeking a professional and experienced Firearms Instructor to join our team. This role focuses on delivering safe, structured, and real-world applicable firearms training, ranging from foundational skills to advanced defensive applications.
Responsibilities

  • Conduct firearms training (dry fire & live fire) for all skill levels
  • Teach core fundamentals: safety, marksmanship, weapon handling, and decision-making
  • Lead drills involving holster draw, reloads, malfunctions, movement, and defensive scenarios

  • Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols at all times
  • Assist with course development aligned with FDTs training system.
  • Evaluate student performance and provide actionable feedback.
Qualifications

  • Proven experience in firearms instruction (civilian, law enforcement, or military)
  • Strong understanding of firearms safety and range operations
  • Ability to teach clearly, confidently, and professionally
  • Relevant certifications preferred (NRA, law enforcement, military, etc.)
  • Experience running both flat range and dynamic training preferred
Additional Opportunities

Instructors with additional backgrounds may qualify for expanded roles and increased hours, including:
  • Combatives / defensive tactics
  • Medical training (TCCC, First Aid, etc.)
  • Jiu-Jitsu or grappling instruction
  • Strength & conditioning/fitness coaching
Compensation & Schedule

  • Starting at $25 per hour
  • Part-Time and Full-Time positions available

  • Flexible scheduling with consistent class opportunities
Why Join Us

  • Train in a high-level, real-world-focused environment

  • Work alongside instructors across multiple disciplines.
  • Opportunity to grow within a complete defensive training system

  • Play a direct role in developing capable, responsible shooters.
To Apply:
Submit your resume along with your certifications and a summary of your instructional experience. Include any additional skill sets for expanded opportunities.