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Defensive Tactics Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$79K - $100K/yr

Instructor certifications related to firearms, tactical operations, defensive tactics, or emergency medical training * EMT, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), or related medical certifications

Firearms Instructor Defensive-Tactics Instructor Standardized Field Sobriety Law Enforcement Driver Training Drug Recognition General * Basic Academy instructors shall adhere to the performance ...

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Defensive Tactics Instructor information

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How much do defensive tactics instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for defensive tactics instructor in the United States is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Defensive Tactics Instructor job?

A Defensive Tactics Instructor is responsible for training law enforcement, military personnel, or security professionals in techniques for self-defense, control tactics, and suspect apprehension. They teach strategies to de-escalate confrontations, properly use force, and ensure officer and public safety. Instructors typically have expertise in martial arts, law enforcement procedures, and physical conditioning. Their role includes conducting hands-on training, developing curriculum, and staying current with legal and tactical updates.

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

To thrive as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and instructional expertise, usually backed by relevant law enforcement, military, or martial arts certifications. Familiarity with training weapons, safety equipment, use-of-force simulators, and documentation systems is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors effectively teach diverse groups and manage high-pressure scenarios. These competencies are critical to ensuring safe, impactful training and preparing students for real-world defensive situations.

What are some common challenges faced by Defensive Tactics Instructors?

Defensive Tactics Instructors often face the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to suit trainees with differing physical abilities, backgrounds, and experience levels. They must ensure that all exercises are conducted safely, minimizing the risk of injury while maintaining program effectiveness. Instructors are also responsible for staying updated with evolving best practices, legal standards, and agency policies regarding use-of-force. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as they frequently collaborate with other instructors and coordinate with department leadership to deliver comprehensive training programs. These aspects make the role both demanding and rewarding for those passionate about safety and professional development.

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What job categories do people searching Defensive Tactics Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Tactics Instructor jobs are:
Recurrent Training Instructor - Firearms, Defensive Tactics/measures, and Use of Force - Part time/o

Recurrent Training Instructor - Firearms, Defensive Tactics/measures, and Use of Force - Part time/o

General Dynamics Information Technology

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$54K - $72K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 210 rated it services


Job description

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REQ#: RQ212925Public Trust: None Requisition Type: Regular Your Impact

Own your opportunity to serve as a critical component of our nations safety and security. Make an impact by using your expertise to protect our country from threats.

Job Description

This is a part time/on call position.

GENERAL SUMMARY: (Scope Summary and Impact of Job)

Recurrent Training Instructors (RTIs) are responsible for training Federal Flight Deck Officers in the use of weapons and self-defense tactics to defend the cockpits of commercial aircraft.

HOW Recurrent Training Instructors (RTIs) WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

RTIs must be current or former federal, state, or local law enforcement agents/officers. RTIs must possess the demonstrated ability to effectively communicate law enforcement training concepts and issues to a diverse audience. RTIs must have the ability to provide subject matter expertise in each of the areas of instruction that comprise the Recurrent Training Program. RTIs must possess the demonstrated ability to instruct in accordance with the principles of basic adult education, as well as, law enforcement platform and practical areas of instruction.

RTIs must have the ability to interpret, adhere and follow established program policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), curriculum, and lesson plans. RTIs must have skill in utilizing automated systems including Microsoft Outlook, MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

RTIs shall be required to wear a uniform, as directed by SAC of FAMS Training Division.

Specific RTI knowledge levels, testing of knowledge levels, and maintenance requirements (i.e. ongoing training) will be in accordance with Section 1.6 Contract Instructor and Role Player Management of the FAMSTCs Instructor Evaluation and Certification SOP

Plans; coordinates; and conducts training and related instructional programs for customer personnel.

  • Conducts training sessions and assists in evaluating the effectiveness of training activities.

  • Coordinates logistics for instruction events; including scheduling classes; reserving classrooms; and preparing workstations.

  • Maintains records of training activities; participant progress; and program effectiveness.

  • May participate in the development and establishment of course content and objectives.

  • Updates course documentation as needed to ensure timeliness and relevance.

  • Provides guidance and work leadership to less experienced instructors.

  • Maintains current knowledge of relevant technologies as assigned.

  • Participates in special projects as required.

WHAT YOULL NEED TO SUCCEED:

EDUCATION / EQUIVALENT TRAINING:

RTIs must have successfully completed a recognized federal firearms instructor training program, or equivalent deemed acceptable by the TSA. Examples of a recognized federal firearms instructor program include certified instructor graduates of Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), Firearms Instructor Training Program (FITP), FBI/DEA Firearms Instructor Training Program, and US Secret Service Firearms Instructor Training Program.

RTIs must have successfully completed a recognized law enforcement instructor development course such as the FLTEC Instructor Development Course (IDC) or the FAMS IDC.

RTIs must successfully complete an instructor qualification program (IQP), established by TSA/FAMS and will be responsible for achieving and maintaining specialized training knowledge in all required subject areas.

EXPERIENCE:

RTIs must have a minimum of 5 years of formal experience as an instructor in ALL of the following law enforcement disciplines: firearms, defensive tactics/measures, and use of force.

RTIs must be current or former federal, state, or local law enforcement agents/officers. RTIs must possess the demonstrated ability to effectively communicate law enforcement training concepts and issues to a diverse audience. RTIs must have the ability to provide subject matter expertise in each of the areas of instruction that comprise the Recurrent Training Program. RTIs must possess the demonstrated ability to instruct in accordance with the principles of basic adult education, as well as, law enforcement platform and practical areas of instruction.

RTIs must have the ability to interpret, adhere and follow established program policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), curriculum, and lesson plans. RTIs must have skill in utilizing automated systems including Microsoft Outlook, MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

RTIs shall be required to wear a uniform, as directed by SAC of FAMS Training Division.

Specific RTI knowledge levels, testing of knowledge levels, and maintenance requirements (i.e. ongoing training) will be in accordance with Section 1.6 Contract Instructor and Role Player Management of the FAMSTCs Instructor Evaluation and Certification SOP

Working Conditions

The work is typically performed in a multi-use environment, including classrooms, simulators and firing ranges which requires proper safety and security precautions. To ensure the training center is at minimal risk for unauthorized disclosure (that is, the release or divulgence of information by an entity to persons or organizations outside of that entity) of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) or Protected Health Information (PHI), the work environment operates under a security system including cctv, controlled access, and secure storage. Employees will come into contact with ammunition, simunitions, and other potentially dangerous items. Employees will be required to handle weapons and ammunition in the course of their duties. Exposure to high volumes of noise due to the firing of weapons will occur and employees are required to wear hearing protection in the form of foam ear plugs as well as external hearing protection. Exposure to expelled gun-powder as a result of fired ammunition is expected, and the employees must wash hands after handling ammunition. Work may require some physical effort in the handling of materials, boxes, or equipment.

Work may require some physical effort in the handling of light materials, boxes, or equipment.

The above job description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.

Requests for reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the principal (essential) functions of this job.

GDIT IS YOUR PLACE:

  • Comprehensive health and wellness packages

  • Internal mobility team dedicated to helping you own your career

  • Professional growth opportunities including paid education and certifications

Work Requirements
Years of Experience

5 + years of related experience

* may vary based on technical training, certification(s), or degree

Certification
Travel Required

None

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely hourly rate for this position is between $30.44 - $41.18. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
View information about benefits and our total rewards program.

Our Identity Verification Process

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.

About Our Work

We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading mission-ready capabilities in AI, cloud, cyber and software development.

Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at gdit.com/tc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans


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About General Dynamics Information Technology

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GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US