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Firearm Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Coach Instructor

Oxon Hill, MD ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Great Work Environment Job Summary We are looking for an energetic and experienced Coach Instructor to join our team! You will be coaching and providing direction to student-athletes so that they can ...

Tactical Trainer, 1099

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Firearms Instructor certification and/or experience recommended. * This includes all small arms up to crew served machineguns. * Willingness and capability to work in a fluid environment, and under ...

Certified instructor in First Aid, CPR, AED, Firearms, Defensive Tactics, Baton, and OC Spray. * Highly proficient in Microsoft Office and training documentation systems. * Exceptional organizational ...

Officer II Armed

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Must have 40 hours of initial firearms certification training from a certified police instructor authorized in the appropriate geographic region. * Must complete in-service training requirement of ...

Performs instructor duties at the Criminal Justice Academy; Prepares and conducts roll call ... Demonstrated skill in the use of firearms, defensive tactics and non-lethal weapons; Ability to ...

Showing results 41-60

Firearm Instructor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$33.4K

$66.5K

$118.4K

How much do firearm instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearm instructor in Washington, DC is $66,475.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $68,000.00 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 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 independently or for a training organization. Many instructors supplement income through private lessons, certifications, and ongoing training sessions.

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.

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 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 Washington, DC? For Firearm Instructor jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Firearm Instructor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,475 per year, or $32 per hour.

Gunsmith / Armorer (5524)

Three Saints Bay, LLC

Quantico, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Brief
Sr. Quality Assurance - Armorer/ Gunsmith
Eagle Harbor, LLC, a subsidiary of Three Saints Bay, LLC and a Federal Government Contractor industry leader, is seeking Advanced Armorer to support our customer in Quantico, VA.
Responsibilities include but not are limited to:
  • Provide physical maintenance in all aspects of multi-hundred small arms weapons inventory. This includes such tasks as periodic inspection, routine service, repair to the extent possible on-site, and clean, in accordance with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards.
  • Perform weapons inventory control per agency policy. Establish and oversee physical accountability procedures of weapons inventory.
  • Maintain weapons vault.
  • Keep and update appropriate usage logs for individual weapons.
  • Liaison with manufacturers of all weapons in inventory. Disseminate necessary updates and
  • information regarding same to unit members.
  • Become credentialed and/or maintain credentials as factory approved armorer for all weapon systems in inventory.
  • Provide research, make recommendations, and assist in purchase of new weapons, ammunition, targets, range supplies, scopes, optics, lasers, and other weapons and marksmanship supplies and equipment.
  • Work with agency-level Firearms Training Unit to provide necessary accountability of weapons and ammunition. Maintain contact with their personnel to keep informed of training, testing and evaluation, product demonstrations recommendations, and new initiatives or policies.
  • Provide gunsmith services as limited by available equipment. Make recommendations for and assist in procurement of gunsmith tools and equipment, as allowed by physical space, unit budget, etc.
  • Keep team small arms repair kits stocked.
  • Have instructor experience and be capable of passing DEA Firearms Instructor School. Provide formal training to agency members and law enforcement counterparts, to include lesson plan development and multimedia classroom delivery, on topics such as operator level weapons
  • maintenance, more advanced armorer training to select unit members, ballistics, ammunition selection, employment of optics and lasers, etc.
  • Be familiar with use of less lethal weapons in inventory. Oversee less lethal weapons serviceability and upkeep. Attend necessary training in use of less lethal weapons to instruct unit members in their implementation.
  • Become and maintain status as Range Safety Officer (RSO) at local military facilities. Act as RSO during unit range training. Support and provide field maintenance of weapons during training.
  • Perform inventory control, install, and maintain serviceability of unit lighting devices, lasers, optics, scopes, night vision goggles, etc. For items in need of factory repair, coordinate with vendors, prepare for shipment, track status, and return to service.
  • Observe and follow all applicable safety rules and procedures, to include wearing required personal safety equipment. Instruct unit members on safety rules. Prepare and post proper signage and other notices regarding weapons and ammunition safety issues.
  • Be available to travel at unit expense to pertinent training courses, informational conferences, etc.
  • Possess well-developed written and verbal communication skills.
  • Promptly prepare written reports, articles, updates, and other material, as needed or requested.
  • Provide support as directed and wherever needed to help assure overall unit readiness and efficiency.
  • The unit has an aggressive deployment and training schedule that often times requires fast-paced adaptations. Therefore, the Contractor must thrive in a hectic work environment.
  • Accept and carry out on-going or periodic collateral duties as assigned.
  • As time allows after completing armorer tasks, the Contractor employee shall seek out opportunities to assist other support staff in their assignments.
  • Demonstrate professional, congenial ability work with diverse unit members, agency employees, representatives from other agencies, vendors, etc. at all experience levels and positions.
  • Be flexible in schedule. The normal scheduled tour of duty is Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Some 40-hour workweeks may necessitate availability and/or being with unit members training on
  • firing ranges during hours of darkness.
  • Have working knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office programs.

Requirements:
  • U.S. Citizen
  • Must be able to pass Agency background check
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ten (10) years of related experience
  • College graduate or equivalent work experience
  • Level III Gunsmith with completion of the United States Marine Corps, Weapons Training Battalion, Precision Weapon Section, Machine Shop portion of the USMC Precise Weapons Repair Course (20 weeks), or equivalent weapons-related machinist training
  • Excellent physical condition to include walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and carrying loads

Position is located in Quantico, VA.
Salary max is 95K DOE
Apply at: https://phg.tbe.taleo.net/phg01/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=GATEWAYVENT&cws=78&rid=5524
VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Three Saints Bay, LLC and its subsidiaries offer a team-oriented working environment and the opportunity to work with exceptional, dedicated industry professionals. We offer our employees a comprehensive benefits package and the opportunity to take part in exciting projects with government and commercial clients, both domestic and international.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite resumes from all interested parties without regard to race, color, sex, sexual preference, religion, creed, national origin, age, genetic information, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.