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Firearm Instructor Jobs in Chester, VA (NOW HIRING)

Deputy Sheriff

Richmond, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

... Law Enforcement Instructors, and Classification Officers. Deputy Sheriffs assigned to Jail ... Must qualify with firearms and other defensive weapons The Richmond City Sheriff's Office is an ...

Firearm Instructor information

See Chester, VA salary details

$27.1K

$54K

$96.2K

How much do firearm instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearm instructor in Chester, VA is $54,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,100.00 and $55,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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.

How hard is it to become a firearm instructor?

Becoming a firearm instructor typically requires obtaining relevant certifications, such as state or national firearms instructor licenses, which involve completing training courses and passing exams. Candidates should have a strong knowledge of firearm safety, operation, and applicable laws, along with practical teaching skills; the process can take several weeks to months depending on the certification requirements. Experience with firearms and a clean background are also important for qualification.

How much do firearms instructors make in the US?

Firearm instructors in the US typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a training company or independently. Many instructors supplement income through private lessons, certifications, and specialized training programs.

What cities near Chester, VA are hiring for Firearm Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chester, VA with the most Firearm Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Firearm Instructor job openings in Chester, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,010 per year, or $26 per hour.

Deputy Sheriff

Richmond, VA • On-site

US Lawns
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Maintain security of residents within an assigned post and supervise resident movement and activities.

  • Perform security inspections, document incidents, and assist with use of force situations following departmental policies.

  • Conduct resident transports, searches, and security rounds, and operate security equipment and communication devices.


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7.2

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Job description

Job Description

The Richmond City Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) is actively recruiting candidates seeking law enforcement careers, including individuals searching for Deputy Sheriff jobs, jail deputy positions, corrections officer jobs, entry-level law enforcement, federal law enforcement, state trooper, security guard, and/or police jobs (cop). This non patrol role is ideal for those exploring public safety, criminal justice, or a career as a sworn officer.

All new deputy sheriffs appointed by the Sheriff perform the duties of a Jail Officer prior to becoming eligible for other assignments which may become available. Applicants will be required to complete a physical agility test.

Deputy Sheriffs are trained as Jail Officers, Courtroom Security Officers, and Civil Process Officers. RCSO offers additional career opportunities through the following specialized positions: Transportation Officers, Alternative Sentencing, Inmate/Resident Community Services Crew, Certified Law Enforcement Instructors, and Classification Officers.

Deputy Sheriffs assigned to Jail Operations work one of the following shifts:

  • Day Shift: 6:30am - 7:00pm
  • Night Shift: 6:30pm - 7:00am
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Maintains security of residents within an assigned post
  • Monitors the activities of residents by performing random security inspections, checking the following: resident well-being and behavior, pod windows are free from damage and obstruction, lighting is sufficient and in working order, sanitation of residents and housing areas, equipment and fixtures (doors, showers, toilets, etc.) are in proper working order, all locking mechanisms and security devices are in proper working order and are properly secured, and fire and safety hazards
  • Documents in a proper manner any situation or occurrence that is not consistent with the routine operations of the Richmond City Sheriff’s Office using the appropriate form
  • Helps other deputies or calls for assistance for any use of force incident or potential use of force incident and follows department’s use of force policy in response to all use of force incidents
  • Supervises resident movement and activities
  • Performs resident transports to locations outside the Richmond City Justice Center, such as clinics, emergency room, courts, etc.
  • Performs resident personal searches and cell searches as needed or required by policy
  • Provides security in the pods during feeding of residents
  • Provides information and aid to residents consistent with departmental policy
  • Ensures security and accountability of all key packs and keys through proper key control as prescribed by policy and procedure
  • Maintains records of and properly identifies persons entering and leaving facility and/or security area
  • Restricts movement to security areas through operation of electronically and manually secured doors
  • Secures outside perimeter of Richmond City Justice Center and prevents flow of contraband by conducting thorough rounds and searches of outside grounds and fixtures
  • Communicates effectively with other posts or deputies in the Richmond City Justice Center via two-way radio using proper terminology and ten-codes as prescribed by the Standard Operating Procedures
  • Helps the public and performs duties and functions outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures during resident visitation
  • Helps citizens and professionals with authorized information about residents
  • Drives emergency vehicles under stressful conditions
  • Uses physical force to control and arrest law violators
  • Requires medium to heavy work that involves exerting 100 to 150 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly to move or carry objects
  • Maintains a physical and mental state of fitness and readiness to handle involvement with dangerous and potentially dangerous people, animals, and equipment
  • Performs duties that may involve running, walking, climbing stairs, sitting or standing for long periods, crouching/stooping, bending/squatting, lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, grasping, and raising objects, and applicants must have the manual dexterity, sense of touch, and hand strength to use a firearm or physically subdue a person and apply or remove handcuffs and must have normal hearing and normal or correctable vision
  • Carries out any or all other duties as directed by the Sheriff or his or her designee
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Never convicted of any felony charge
  • Never convicted of any domestic violence offense
  • No serious misdemeanors
  • Must possess strong moral character as determined by the Applicant Screening Panel and background investigation
  • Must be willing to submit to being fingerprinted and a search will be made of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record
  • Must be found, after examination by Occupational Health, to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental conditions that might adversely affect his/her ability to exercise the powers or duties of a Deputy Sheriff
  • Must possess or be able to obtain within 30 days of employment a valid Virginia driver’s license if currently licensed out of state
  • Must submit to an extensive background investigation, credit history check, polygraph examination, and medical examination/drug screening
  • Must complete all DCJS requirements for certification as a Deputy Sheriff within one year of hire date
  • Must have basic computer skills and be familiar with Microsoft Office software
  • Must qualify with firearms and other defensive weapons

The Richmond City Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

Benefits
  • Biweekly Pay Schedule
  • Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Hybrid Plan with Hazardous Duty Supplement for Deputies
  • Health, Vision, Prescription, & Wellness Benefits
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Certified V3 Employer
  • Numerous educational partnerships with institutions of higher learning providing reduced tuition and/or additional credits
  • Basic Group Term Life Insurance (2x annual salary rounded to the next higher thousand dollars)
  • Optional Disability and Family Life Insurance
  • Optional Deferred Compensation Retirement (457 Retirement Plan)
  • 12 Vacation Days Per Year
  • 15 Days Military Leave per Military Fiscal Year
  • 15 Days Sick Leave Accrued per Year
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About U.S. Lawns

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Industry

Construction, facilities support services, environmental consulting services and landscape care and maintenance services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US

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