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Firearms Instructor Jobs in Albuquerque, NM (NOW HIRING)

Firearms Instructor Training and Certifications; Advanced Weapons Systems and Tactical Training; and Intermediate Force Training. * These topical areas include the following: * Various firearms ...

Firearms Instructor Training and Certifications; Advanced Weapons Systems and Tactical Training; and Intermediate Force Training. * These topical areas include the following: * Various firearms ...

Firearms Instructor Training and Certifications; Advanced Weapons Systems and Tactical Training; and Intermediate Force Training. * These topical areas include the following: * Various firearms ...

Collaborates with other instructors in preparing, administering, and grading examinations for the course. Participates in the preparation of the final evaluations for the course * Responsible for ...

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Collaborates with other instructors in preparing, administering, and grading examinations for the course. Participates in the preparation of the final evaluations for the course * Responsible for ...

Collaborates with other instructors in preparing, administering, and grading examinations for the course. Participates in the preparation of the final evaluations for the course * Responsible for ...

Cycling Instructor (Winrock)

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19.31 - $31.38/hr

Instructor referral program * Paid practice and educational time * 401K** *Applicable locations only. Instructors may use Kids Club for their own children while teaching **Additional perks and ...

Cycling Instructor (Winrock)

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19.31 - $31.38/hr

Instructor referral program * Paid practice and educational time * 401K** *Applicable locations only. Instructors may use Kids Club for their own children while teaching **Additional perks and ...

Cycling Instructor (Central)

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19.31 - $31.38/hr

Instructor referral program * Paid practice and educational time * 401K** *Applicable locations only. Instructors may use Kids Club for their own children while teaching **Additional perks and ...

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Firearms Instructor information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$28.6K

$56.9K

$101.3K

How much do firearms instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearms instructor in Albuquerque, NM is $56,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $58,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firearms instructor?

Firearms Instructors are professionals who teach individuals and groups how to handle, operate, and maintain firearms safely and effectively. They provide instruction on firearm safety, marksmanship, legal considerations, and proper handling techniques. Firearms Instructors may work with law enforcement, military personnel, security professionals, or civilians, and often conduct both classroom and live-fire training. Their role is critical in ensuring that students develop the skills and knowledge required for responsible firearm use.

What does a firearms instructor do?

As a firearms instructor, your job is to teach students how to use firearms responsibly or train personnel or customers on how to use specific firearms. Firearms instructors can work at shooting ranges, weapons manufacturing companies, or government or law enforcement agencies. Although your particular responsibilities differ depending on the field in which you work, most instructors’ duties are similar. You may oversee police academy recruits during training, work with private security companies to lead coursework, or teach citizens on how to use guns.

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

To thrive as a Firearms Instructor, you need expert knowledge of firearms safety, marksmanship, and instructional techniques, often supported by certifications from organizations like the NRA or law enforcement agencies. Familiarity with range safety protocols, training aids, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and attention to detail help instructors effectively teach and adapt to various experience levels. These skills ensure safe, effective training and compliance with legal and organizational standards.

What are some typical challenges a firearms instructor may face when working with trainees of varying skill levels?

Firearms Instructors often encounter the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to accommodate trainees with different backgrounds, learning speeds, and levels of experience. Balancing safety, engagement, and skill development for both beginners and advanced shooters requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Instructors must also address nervousness or misconceptions about firearms, ensuring all participants feel comfortable and confident while maintaining strict safety protocols. Collaborating with range staff and other instructors can help facilitate a supportive learning environment.

What is the difference between Firearms Instructor vs Security Guard?

AspectFirearms InstructorSecurity Guard
Required CertificationsFirearms safety and instructor certifications, state licensingSecurity license, state licensing
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, shooting ranges, classroomsBuildings, outdoor locations, event venues
Employer & IndustryTraining companies, law enforcement, private security firmsSecurity companies, private clients, retail stores

While both roles require licensing and involve safety protocols, Firearms Instructors focus on teaching firearm skills and safety, often in training facilities, whereas Security Guards provide security services, patrolling and monitoring in various environments. The roles differ mainly in their primary responsibilities but share common certifications and industry usage.

Can a civilian become a firearms instructor?

Yes, civilians can become firearms instructors if they meet state and federal requirements, which often include holding a valid firearms license, completing instructor certification courses, and passing background checks. Many organizations offer instructor training programs that prepare individuals to teach firearm safety and shooting skills professionally.

What are popular job titles related to Firearms Instructor jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

For Firearms Instructor jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firearms Instructor jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Firearms Instructor jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What cities near Albuquerque, NM are hiring for Firearms Instructor jobs?

Cities near Albuquerque, NM with the most Firearms Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Firearms Instructor job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,884 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Rangemaster (Open Space Shooting Range)

City of Albuquerque

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$41K - $44K/yr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


City Of Albuquerque rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

514th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Summary Oversee and maintain the City shooting-range park; ensure park, firearms and archery safety and perform other technical tasks in support of higher-level management staff. This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing. Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification.

Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. Essential and Supplemental Functions ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Maintain, repair and operate a variety of shooting range equipment including the skeet and trap machines, propane generators and compressors. Instruct park participants on the safe and proper handling of a variety of firearms (including shotguns, handguns and other types of firearms) and archery equipment; inform them of park rules and regulations. Maintain and clean shooting-range park areas; stock trap and skeet houses with appropriate supplies; set up shooting range for specific purposes including police officer testing purposes.

Collect user fees from park participants; operate cash register and give receipts; deposit park funds as necessary. Assume supervisory responsibility in the absence of the Shooting Range Manager for shooting-range park services and activities, including supervising shooters and part-time staff. SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS: Assist in the maintenance of files and records; compile park use information.

Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis. High school diploma or GED supplemented by thirty (30) credit hours vocational training in operation and maintenance of shooting range equipment, or firearms operation/safety; and Two (2) years experience in the use, operation, and maintenance of firearms, preferably within the setting of a shooting range.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire. Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire. Possession of a valid Firearms Instructor Certificate within six (6) months from date of hire.

Possession of a valid Archery Instructor Certificate within six (6) months from date of hire. Possession of a valid C.P.R. and First Aid Certificate within six (6) months from date of hire

Working Conditions Environmental: Field environment; exposure to noise and inclement weather conditions. Physical: Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking and standing for prolonged periods.


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