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Firearms Instructor Jobs in Smithfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Instructors play a vital role in creating a welcoming, motivating, and results-driven environment while helping clients safely achieve their fitness goals. The ideal candidate is passionate about ...

Weapons Based Instructors deliver training in support of the Navy's AT and Weapons Training Program. This includes the following courses of instruction: Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI)

Weapons Based Instructors deliver training in support of the Navy's AT and Weapons Training Program. This includes the following courses of instruction: Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI)

Pilates Instructor (Reformer) - Small Group & 1:1 Sessions We're looking for a confident, member-focused Pilates Instructor to deliver premium reformer classes and 1:1 sessions. You'll coach with ...

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Navy Training Instructor, DSAGT

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Navy Training Instructor, DSAGT , you will deliver hands-on, operationally relevant training for Navy surface training systems-drawing on real-world fleet experience to develop curriculum ...

Pilates Instructor

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The instructor will deliver safe, effective, and engaging Pilates Reformer classes to members of varying ages and fitness levels, with a focus on improving flexibility, core strength, posture ...

Pilates Instructor

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The instructor will deliver safe, effective, and engaging Pilates Reformer classes to members of varying ages and fitness levels, with a focus on improving flexibility, core strength, posture ...

Nexplore Instructor Role : The Nexplore Instructor is responsible for consistently delivering high-quality, in-person STEM, Digital Tech, Art, Life Skills and/or Fitness' instruction to foster the ...

Pilates Instructor

Chesapeake, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The instructor will deliver safe, effective, and engaging Pilates Reformer classes to members of varying ages and fitness levels, with a focus on improving flexibility, core strength, posture ...

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Showing results 1-20

Firearms Instructor information

See Smithfield, VA salary details

$27.4K

$54.6K

$97.2K

How much do firearms instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearms instructor in Smithfield, VA is $54,583.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $55,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What cities near Smithfield, VA are hiring for Firearms Instructor jobs?

Cities near Smithfield, VA with the most Firearms Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Firearms Instructor job openings in Smithfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,583 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

$22 - $24.75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


United States Coast Guard rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Are You...
  • Comfortable with firearms?
  • Attentive to detail?
  • Inclined toward mechanics and math?
  • Interested in law enforcement or security?

Skills You'll Learn
Firearms maintenance
Firearms instruction
Law enforcement
Training You'll Get
  • GMs receive a 10-week rating course in Yorktown, VA, with instruction in electronic and mechanical systems, as well as hydraulics.
  • Advanced training in weapons systems maintenance and small arms instruction.
  • Both full-time and part-time Coast Guard-funded educational opportunities that lead to an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or higher may be available.

Related Civilian Jobs
  • Firearms Instructor
  • Electronics Technician
  • Gunsmith
  • Ammunition Foreman
  • Hydraulic Equipment Operator

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United States Coast Guard logo

About United States Coast Guard

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a branch of the United States Armed Forces situated in Washington, DC, US. As part of its key mission, it is responsible for ensuring maritime safety, security, and stewardship. Founded on August 4, 1790, it is one of the country's oldest organizations in continuous service. The USCG offers a service portfolio that includes maritime law enforcement, mariner assistance, maritime environmental protection, and defense readiness. The USCG's core values include Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. The mission statement of the USCG is to protect the maritime interests of the United States and ensure the nation's maritime economy.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US