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Firearm Instructor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Ability to participate and meet the requirements of additional firearms training at the discretion of the firearms instructor. * Ability to demonstrate a working knowledge of the Tarian policies.

Ability to participate and meet the requirements of additional firearms training at the discretion of the firearms instructor. * Ability to demonstrate a working knowledge of the Tarian policies.

Ability to participate and meet the requirements of additional firearms training at the discretion of the firearms instructor. * Ability to demonstrate a working knowledge of the Tarian policies.

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Firearm Instructor information

See Colorado salary details

$31K

$61.7K

$109.9K

How much do firearm instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearm instructor in Colorado is $61,716.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $63,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Firearm Instructors when training new students, and how can these be addressed?

Firearm Instructors often encounter students with varying levels of experience, confidence, and safety awareness. A key challenge is ensuring that all participants understand and consistently follow strict safety protocols, especially those who are nervous or unfamiliar with firearms. Instructors address this by providing clear, step-by-step instructions, close supervision during practical exercises, and fostering an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions. Patience, effective communication, and adaptability are crucial for helping every student progress safely and confidently.

How long does it take to become a firearms instructor?

Becoming a firearms instructor typically requires completing a certified training course that can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the program and state requirements. Candidates usually need to have prior firearm experience, pass background checks, and obtain relevant certifications such as NRA instructor certification before starting instructing duties.

How much do Glock firearms instructors make?

Glock firearms instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of training provided. Many instructors work as independent contractors or for shooting ranges, and earnings can vary based on certifications and class size.

What does a Firearm Instructor do?

A Firearm Instructor is a trained professional responsible for teaching individuals how to safely handle, operate, and maintain firearms. They provide instruction on proper shooting techniques, firearm safety protocols, and legal responsibilities related to gun ownership and use. Firearm Instructors may teach civilians, law enforcement, or military personnel, and often conduct both classroom and hands-on training sessions. Their goal is to ensure students become competent, confident, and responsible firearm users.

Can you make money as a firearms instructor?

Firearm instructors can earn income through private lessons, group classes, and certifications, with pay rates varying based on experience, location, and clientele. Successful instructors often need relevant certifications, safety training, and a good reputation to increase earning potential. Income can be seasonal and depends on the number of students and the type of instruction offered.

What is the difference between Firearm Instructor vs Shooting Range Instructor?

AspectFirearm InstructorShooting Range Instructor
CertificationsFirearm safety, instructor certifications, possibly NRA or state-specific licensesRange safety, basic firearm handling, customer service certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, shooting ranges, law enforcement or civilian training settingsShooting ranges, retail stores, recreational facilities
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, security, civilian firearm training schoolsShooting ranges, firearm retail stores, recreational facilities

Firearm Instructors focus on comprehensive firearm safety, handling, and advanced shooting techniques, often requiring specialized certifications. Shooting Range Instructors primarily oversee range safety, assist customers, and provide basic firearm guidance. While both roles involve firearm knowledge, Firearm Instructors typically have more extensive training and work in educational settings, whereas Shooting Range Instructors focus on customer service and range operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Firearm Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firearm Instructor, you need comprehensive firearms knowledge, safety expertise, and relevant certifications such as NRA Instructor credentials or law enforcement training. Familiarity with range safety protocols, training simulators, and instructional materials is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to diverse learners are essential soft skills. These qualifications ensure safe, effective instruction and help students develop responsible firearm handling practices.
What are popular job titles related to Firearm Instructor jobs in Colorado? For Firearm Instructor jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Firearm Instructor jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Firearm Instructor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Firearm Instructor jobs in CO? For Firearm Instructor jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Firearm Instructor job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,716 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Lead Firearms Instructor - Part Time / on Call

Lead Firearms Instructor - Part Time / on Call

General Dynamics Information Technology

Golden, CO • On-site

Part-time

Posted 21 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

86th of 230 rated it services


Job description

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REQ#: RQ214335Public 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
Job Description

Lead Firearms Instructors (LFIs) are the first point of contact for Federal Flight Deck Officers when they arrive at the training venue; are responsible for checking them in; verifying weapons and credentials; conducting training and overseeing the course of fire at the gun-range. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of all personnel on the range and securing SSI and SPII information during and after requalification sessions.

HOW A LEAD FIREARMS INSTRUCTOR WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

Lead Firearms Instructors (LFIs) are the first point of contact at the training venue for Federal Flight Deck Officers (FFDO) and is the on-site training manager for the program. LFIs conduct all classroom instruction; delivering the approved TSA training and safety brief; introducing and describing new equipment; and ensuring all students understand and sign the safety briefing. The LFI ensures a minimum number of SFIs are present to maintain an instructor/student ratio of 1:6 for each training session. The LFI must ensure a sufficient inventory of training supplies is on-hand at the training venue to support monthly requalification sessions. The LFI is expected to maintain positive control of the training environment from the moment students arrive at the venue to the moment they depart. Upon students? arrival; the LFIs must verify weapons and credentials of each FFDO before training commences by visual inspection. The LFI is responsible for ensuring proper scoring of targets; completion of applicable administrative forms; and collection of training data. The LFI is required sign and certify qualification scores for all FFDOs attempting to qualify. Failure of an FFDO to qualify also means that an authorized FAMS Representative and/or LFI takes custody of the unloaded weapon; transport device (lockbox); credential and other equipment for return to TSA/FAMS. If no authorized FAMS representative is present to receive the equipment; the LFI shall make immediate verbal notification to the FFDO Program Office in order to make the appropriate arrangements to return equipment and credentials. The LFI must keep all Sensitive Security Information (SSI) and Sensitive Personally Identifying Information (SPII) secured appropriately both during and after a re-qualification session in compliance with the TSA MD 2100.2; Privacy and Information Collection Policy and TSA MD 1400.3 TSA Information Security Policy. The LFI is oversees time keeping of all SFI labor hours. The LFI must comply with internal compliance training events

WHAT YOULL NEED TO SUCCEED:

EDUCATION / EQUIVALENT TRAINING: Current or former federal law enforcement agent; officer; or civilian employee having completed a recognized federal firearm instructor training program deemed acceptable by the TSA/FAMS. Examples of a recognized federal firearms instructor programs include; but are not limited to; certified instructor graduates of FLETC Firearms Instructor Training program (FITP); FAMS Firearms Instructor Training Program; FBI/DEA Firearms Instructor Training Program; United States Postal Inspectors Firearms Instructor Training Program or equivalent federal training program. All LFIs must successfully complete a 2-3 days firearms re-qualification training program under the technical direction of the SAC; FAMS Training Division; and the FFDO Program Office. Areas of instruction shall include; but not to be limited to; the re-qualification course(s) of fire; procedural requirements for conducting the re-qualification session; and use of a GFE Automatic External Defibrillator (AED); and basic first aid.

EXPERIENCE: 5 years of firearms training experience

Associates Degree; or the equivalent combination of education; technical certifications or training; or work/military experience.

UNIQUE/ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Working Conditions The work is typically performed at an indoor or outdoor gun range. 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 light materials; boxes; or equipment. *This position requires applicants to successfully complete the security application and pass a background investigation clearance prior to starting.*

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

  • Cutting-edge technology you can learn from

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

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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