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Firearms Instructor Jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY (NOW HIRING)

The Instructor will be responsible for the day to day shooting instruction activities for Orvis Sandanona including Wing Shooting schools and Private Shooting Lessons. This position will also have a ...

The Instructor will be responsible for the day to day shooting instruction activities for Orvis Sandanona including Wing Shooting schools and Private Shooting Lessons. This position will also have a ...

The Instructor will be responsible for the day to day shooting instruction activities for Orvis Sandanona including Wing Shooting schools and Private Shooting Lessons. This position will also have a ...

Pilates Reformer Instructor

Yorktown, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Certified Pilates Reformer Instructor (Balanced Body, STOTT, BASI, or equivalent). * Current CPR/AED certification. * Strong communication and coaching skills; team-player mindset. BENEFITS AT 24 In ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Poughkeepsie, NY · On-site

$56K - $73K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

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Firearms Instructor information

See Poughkeepsie, NY salary details

$29.1K

$58K

$103.2K

How much do firearms instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearms instructor in Poughkeepsie, NY is $57,987.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,800.00 and $59,300.00 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 job categories do people searching Firearms Instructor jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Firearms Instructor jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY are:

What cities near Poughkeepsie, NY are hiring for Firearms Instructor jobs?

Cities near Poughkeepsie, NY with the most Firearms Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Firearms Instructor job openings in Poughkeepsie, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,987 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Sandanona Shooting Instructor

orvis

Millbrook, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Orvis rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Sandanona Shooting School located in Millbrook is seeking a Sporting Clays/Wing Shooting Instructor.  This is an on-call position.


The Instructor will be responsible for the day to day shooting instruction activities for Orvis Sandanona including Wing Shooting schools and Private Shooting Lessons.  This position will also have a strong focus on continuous improvement and growth in the schools and lessons program.   A special focus will be offering a best-in-class product for wingshooting instruction, Clays Instruction and Corporate Instruction. 


General Responsibilities:

  • Help maintaining all instruction areas AM or PM – areas need to be stocked and cleaned before and after use.
  • Help support all other sporting adventure departments at Orvis Sandanona
  • Promote and maintain the safety and well-being of students during schools and lessons.

 Other Responsibilities include but not limited to:

  • Assist Retail/Front Desk with instructional needs, guns, ammo, and gun desk.
  • Upland Bird Dept. Support. Upland Instruction at releases and schools
  • Clay course events and instruction.

Position Interfaces:

This position reports directly to the Manager-Chief Shooting Instructor, Gun Room manager. This position will also interface daily with Retail/Office Manager, Instructors, Trappers, Guides, and Retail Staff


Required Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated proficiency in wing shooting and shooting skills including gun fitting
  • Strong teaching ability
  • Have a full understanding of the Orvis Lifestyle.
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Strong communication skills, both written and oral
  • Familiar with Sporting Clays and Upland Bird Hunting
  • Physical strength to do outdoor work including but not limited to heavy lifting, and loading ammo and targets etc.
  • General knowledge of shotguns (manufacturers, models, etc.)
  • Flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of Orvis Sandanona including most weekends
  • Must have good time management and responsibility

What Orvis employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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